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<\/p>\nWhether it’s Christmas, a birthday, Valentines day or even just because – gift giving doesn’t come naturally to all of us. When we should be celebrating with family or enjoying a party, instead we’re gnashing our teeth and fearing the worst – ‘Will they hate the gift?’ For\u00a0those of us who are notoriously bad gift givers, it can be rather a stressful occasion. The key to beating the gift-giving blues is planning, planning, planning and taking some time and care over your purchases to avoid a last-minute supermarket dash. Follow these top tips to be a better gift giver, and bring a smile to your loved one\u2019s face.<\/p>\n
First things first. To be a better gift giver, avoid last minute shopping! Time can easily slip away from all of us – before you know it, it\u2019s the night before the big day. Make sure you leave plenty of time to find the perfect gifts or you\u2019ll end up impulse buying all sorts that won\u2019t necessarily make the cut. Starting early (and keeping an eye out all year long) gives you the opportunity to nab some great deals in seasonal sales and find that \u2018just right\u2019 gift for a loved one even if its months in advance.<\/p>\n
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An early start also gives you time to \u2018research\u2019 (or snoop) on friends and family, to get an idea of what they would genuinely love to unwrap. Try keeping a list and update it every time a friend mentions something they would love to own but simply \u2018don\u2019t need\u2019 whilst you\u2019re out shopping or browsing magazines. Making a cheeky note means you already have a list of go-to gift ideas whenever the time comes. Browse gift guides and even Pinterest to start storing possible presents so that even if you\u2019re clueless when it gets nearer the time, you have a pre-made \u2018giftspiration\u2019 board to save the day. Whilst you\u2019re on Pinterest, try checking your friend\u2019s boards to get some further inspiration on their style preferences, or products they tend to opt for. If you\u2019re lucky, you might even stumble across a \u2018wish list\u2019; and that\u2019s the hard work done for you.<\/p>\n
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<\/h2>\nBeing bombarded with ads from every angle can become overwhelming, particularly in this modern age. And what do you give to the friend who\u2019s always on top of the latest trends, buying the best home-ware, and indulging in your favourite goodies? Think outside the box. A gift doesn\u2019t necessarily have to be a physical present that they can unwrap \u2013 instead, explore the possibility of giving an \u2018experience\u2019 as a gift. This could be anything from a cooking class to a spa day, from a race car driving experience to a weekend away. There are plenty of places you can buy ready made experience packages, or if you\u2019re feeling inspired why not plan one yourself? If you\u2019re struggling to plan a day out, you could always buy your loved one a gift card which shows you care; for example, a subscription to their favourite magazine or a membership to their favourite museum.<\/p>\n
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Don\u2019t worry \u2013 you don\u2019t have to be a whizz with a sewing machine or a trained artist to create a beautiful and thoughtful handmade gift. Putting the time and effort into creating something yourself shows you genuinely care about what your friend or family member will receive \u2013 and guarantees no one else will have gifted them the same thing. Take the opportunity to research unique DIY gifts that will suit them down to a tee. You can take a more traditional approach and craft a beautiful handmade card or hand-paint an ornament, or try something a little different. Popular ideas include making your own body scrubs or bath bombs using ingredients found in the kitchen, or designing a photo printed memento on a garment or home d\u00e9cor piece. If you\u2019re experimenting with a new idea from scratch, don\u2019t forget to do a test run ahead of the day just to make sure it turns out perfectly.<\/p>\n
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Presentation is everything. Well, aside from what\u2019s inside of course. If you’re giving a gift it’s most likely for a special occasion, so go the extra mile and present it in a fun or luxurious way \u2013 think about what would attract your attention and apply it to the gift. You can add some simple stick on ribbons or foliage for an extra touch of elegance, or wrap the box in colourful cellophane for a quirky and standout look. The presentation can make a huge difference, and this extra touch will make it feel that bit more special.<\/p>\n
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If you\u2019re struggling to be a better gift giver, remember \u2013 you can always just ask! Your friends and family will appreciate the thought, even if it means they need to give you a nudge in the right direction.<\/p>\n
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