This common faux pas could be killing your social life – find out how to avoid it!
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The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes the joy, and sometimes the stress, of gift-giving. We've all been there: you unwrap a present only to find something that's not quite your taste, or perhaps you've received a duplicate item.
It's tucked away in a closet, and you wonder, “Could this be the perfect gift for someone else?” But then the question arises: Is regifting a thoughtful gesture or a social blunder?
Navigating the social etiquette of gift exchanges can be tricky, especially when traditions collide with modern practicality. Let's unwrap the delicate topic of regifting and ensure your social life remains as vibrant as ever.
Lizzie Post, the great-great-granddaughter of etiquette legend Emily Post, offers sage advice on the matter. According to Post, “Like so many things in etiquette, it really matters how you do it.”
But beware, as there are tales of regifting gone wrong, such as the cringe-worthy moment when a gift finds its way back to the original giver, complete with the original gift tags still attached.
To regift or not to regift, that is the question. And the answer? It depends. “It's important to think carefully about how you regift,” said Post.
Here are some refined regifting rules to live by, as per the Emily Post Institute.
1. Ensure the gift is in its original packaging, complete with all parts and manuals. A gift that looks worn or used is a definite no-go.
2. Steer clear of regifting items that are unique, handmade, or personalized. Monogrammed towels or a custom painting should be treasured, not transferred.
3. Be certain that neither the original giver nor the new recipient would be offended by the regift. If there's even a hint of doubt, choose another path. Post said that it is safe territory if you are 99% sure.
4. Regifting should never be about offloading unwanted items. Believe that the recipient will genuinely value and enjoy the gift.
"This is not about getting rid of your junk and just not feeling guilty about it," stated Post.
While the Emily Post Institute provides a solid framework, there's more to consider. Should you tell the recipient that their gift is a regift?
It's a personal choice, but transparency can sometimes be the best policy, especially if the item is something you know they've been wanting or if you've received duplicates.
The other way to regift safely, claimed Post, is when you have received a duplicate of something and you've decided to pass one along. "You can just be open about that," she said.
Have you ever regifted an item to somebody? What was the gift and how did they react? What are your personal thoughts on regifting? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
It's tucked away in a closet, and you wonder, “Could this be the perfect gift for someone else?” But then the question arises: Is regifting a thoughtful gesture or a social blunder?
Navigating the social etiquette of gift exchanges can be tricky, especially when traditions collide with modern practicality. Let's unwrap the delicate topic of regifting and ensure your social life remains as vibrant as ever.
Lizzie Post, the great-great-granddaughter of etiquette legend Emily Post, offers sage advice on the matter. According to Post, “Like so many things in etiquette, it really matters how you do it.”
Regifting is not inherently rude but should be done thoughtfully and with consideration for both the original giver and the recipient. Image source: Pexels / Andrea Piacquadio.
But beware, as there are tales of regifting gone wrong, such as the cringe-worthy moment when a gift finds its way back to the original giver, complete with the original gift tags still attached.
To regift or not to regift, that is the question. And the answer? It depends. “It's important to think carefully about how you regift,” said Post.
Here are some refined regifting rules to live by, as per the Emily Post Institute.
1. Ensure the gift is in its original packaging, complete with all parts and manuals. A gift that looks worn or used is a definite no-go.
2. Steer clear of regifting items that are unique, handmade, or personalized. Monogrammed towels or a custom painting should be treasured, not transferred.
3. Be certain that neither the original giver nor the new recipient would be offended by the regift. If there's even a hint of doubt, choose another path. Post said that it is safe territory if you are 99% sure.
4. Regifting should never be about offloading unwanted items. Believe that the recipient will genuinely value and enjoy the gift.
"This is not about getting rid of your junk and just not feeling guilty about it," stated Post.
While the Emily Post Institute provides a solid framework, there's more to consider. Should you tell the recipient that their gift is a regift?
It's a personal choice, but transparency can sometimes be the best policy, especially if the item is something you know they've been wanting or if you've received duplicates.
The other way to regift safely, claimed Post, is when you have received a duplicate of something and you've decided to pass one along. "You can just be open about that," she said.
Have you ever regifted an item to somebody? What was the gift and how did they react? What are your personal thoughts on regifting? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
