Regifting is the gift that keeps on giving. While the term of regifting was coined on an episode of Seinfeld, the act of taking a gift that was received and then giving it to another person has been around for centuries. It is almost acceptable to regift these days, but you need to make sure that you follow some guidelines.
What Works well for Regifting?
The best gifts for re-gifting are those gifts that are re-gifted with the giftee in mind. Do not give a gift just to give a gift. Just because you might not want or need something doesn’t mean the person you are re-gifting it to would want to receive it.
Successfully Regifting
You need to be confident in what you are doing in order to regift successfully. Know that because you thoughtfully chose the gift for your giftee, your gift will most likely be well received. Make sure that you personalize your regift by changing the wrapping paper and changing the gift card. Never give gifts that are dead giveaways, such as holiday candles when it is not a holiday, one-of-a- kind handmade items, and free promotional items. Use common sense. Make sure your giftee is not related to the person who originally gave it to you.
You can read about stories on regifting here:
http://www.regiftable.com/RegiftingStories/Default.aspx
Keeping a Secret and Avoiding Embarrassment
Regifting is a good way to give a person a gift, but try to keep it a secret. While it is true it is more acceptable, it is an unsaid rule that you should not tell your giftee it’s a regift. Never feel guilty about regifting, but if you are pointedly asked by the giftee if it’s a regift, it’s best to be honest. Preserving a relationship is far more important than keeping a regift a secret.
For more tips on regifting look here:
http://articles.moneycentral.msn.com/SavingandDebt/Advice
/12RulesForRegiftingWithoutFear.aspx
Alternatives to Regifting
Some people opt to give the gifts they don’t want to charities, or they may sell them on e-bay. There are regifting websites that help people decide what to do with gifts. Some people hold white elephant parties, specifically to allow others to regift in a fun and enjoyable way.
For more information on regifting websites look here:
http://www.marketwatch.com/News/Story/Story.aspx?guid=
%7B3BCB24A0%2DB1B2%2D41E1%2D82B3%2D260F7D6714EE%7D
&siteid=mktw&dist=nwtpf
Regifting is a personal choice. Follow the tips above and be confident in the gift you are giving. Remember it truly is the thought that counts, so be thoughtful about regifting!
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