by T Kane

Created on: July 23, 2009   Last Updated: July 24, 2009

It's better to give than to receive. It's the thought that counts. Yeah yeah, we all know those gift giving cliches. But most of us have gotten a gift or two that we hate. It can be hurtful when someone you love gives you a gift that is so obviously un-you. So here are three simple rules that may make your holidays a little merrier when it comes to choosing that perfect gift.

How old are they?

Do you think your 17 year old niece really wants that Hanna Montana doll? Doubtful. And your 7 year old grandson probably isn't ready for that aftershave just yet. I know it is hard to accept how fast children grow up, especially when you don't get to see them very often. But even so it is always best to remember the age of the recipient. Try to think back to when you where their age, what would you have thought if someone had given you that same gift?

Would they wear that?

First, do you know their size? This is one of the hardest parts of buying clothes for someone else. It can be even worse if they have body issues. If you get something too large they may believe you think they are a whale. If you get something too small this may be misconstrued as you saying they should drop a few pounds. Well hopefully your family isn't this fragile but still, you don't want to give a gift that will have to be returned or exchanged.

Next, would they like it? Yes maybe that pink sundress with bunnies is adorable but would you're Gothic cousin like it? Probably not. Really put your self in their head when purchasing clothes. If you can't objectively pick something that the receiver would like maybe you should look for another gift.

Finally, is it practical? If your best friend is a stay at home mom who spends all of her free time outdoors and who's idea of the perfect date is going to Chucky Cheese with the whole family she probably wouldn't get too much wear out of an expensive cocktail dress.

Is this a gift they need or that they want?

So the blender broke. Your wife can't make you anymore banana -pineapple smoothies. So you think, great I'll get her a blender for Christmas. Wrong. This is a great way to turn an otherwise happy holiday sour and end up in the dog house. Remember a gift should benefit the recipient. It should be something they desire and will enjoy. You should never have an ulterior motive when buying gifts for those you actually care about. And be warned mothers are usually the worst for claiming they want something that they need. Who else but a mother would turn down a day at the spa because they really want a dryer? A good rule of thumb is that appliances make better gifts for say, a random Tuesday than an actual holiday.

Please remember if you are going to buy a gift for a loved one it should be something that they will really value. Take the time to think about the receiver, what do they like? What would they really want? I sincerely hope these tips can help you to come up with great gift ideas that will truly be appreciated and not soon forgotten.

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