Gift-giving can be tricky, especially when you want to make a lasting impression. The value of a gift isn’t in its price, but in how well it suits the recipient’s personality and preferences. Sometimes, it’s hard to decide whether to give a gift at all, or what would be most appropriate. Not every great gift has to be expensive or extravagant.
This article will share five tips to help you choose the perfect gift that’s thoughtful and fitting for the occasion.
1. Not every gift has to be life-changing, and a meaningful gift doesn’t have to cost a lot of money.
Finding the perfect gift can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. A meaningful gift doesn’t need to break the bank or be life-changing—it just needs to show you care.
Erica Cerulo, co-host of A Thing or Two podcast, explains that we often put too much pressure on ourselves, thinking we need to find a gift that proves how well we know someone. “A great gift doesn’t have to change someone’s life—it can simply be something fun, thoughtful, and comforting,” she says. Even small, cost-free gestures can leave a big impact.
Writer Helen Rosner recalls a family book swap where everyone picked a title from their own shelf to share. Each gift came with a personal explanation, like, “I loved this book, and I think you will too.” It cost nothing, sparked meaningful conversations, and felt incredibly heartfelt. In the end, it’s the thought and effort that make a gift special, not the price tag.
2. Try to Refer to Three Simple Rules for Better Gift-Giving
Finding the perfect gift doesn’t have to be complicated. There is a simple three-point checklist to help guide your choices:
Surprise them with something new. Introduce them to something they wouldn’t have discovered on their own.
Upgrade the everyday. Get them a better version of something they already use and enjoy.
Make it personal. Choose something that shows you truly understand and appreciate who they are.
For example, Claire Mazur once gifted a premium seltzer maker to friends who loved sparkling water but didn’t own one. It was thoughtful, practical, and reflected her attention to their needs. The goal of gift-giving is simple: make the recipient feel seen and appreciated. Whether it’s a nostalgic keepsake from their childhood or a small upgrade to something they love, what matters most is the thought behind it. Sometimes, it’s as easy as noticing the little things.
3. Keep a Gift Idea List Year-Round
Great gift-givers don’t wait until the last minute to think of ideas—they plan ahead. Many keep running lists of gift ideas for their loved ones, jotting down inspirations whenever they come up. This can be as simple as a note on your phone, individual lists for specific people, or even adding notes to your contacts about food preferences, birthdays, or gift preferences.
By keeping track of ideas throughout the year, you’ll not only avoid the stress of scrambling for last-minute options but also steer clear of directly asking loved ones what they want—a habit that Crystal L. Bailey of the Etiquette Institute of Washington advises against. Instead, pay attention to the little things they mention or enjoy. The effort you put into noticing their preferences makes all the difference.
4. Write a Mini-Bio of the Recipient
Even those closest to us can be tricky to shop for. To make it easier, try writing a simple three-sentence description of their interests, quirks, and passions. For example, “My dad loves sports, avoids fancy kitchen gadgets, and has been a lawyer for decades.” This exercise helps shift focus from generic gift ideas to something truly personal.
Instead of falling into cliché categories (like whiskey stones for men), aim for a gift that says, “This is for you.” For instance, if they love Nutter Butters, surprise them with a fun stash of their favorite treat—it’s thoughtful and specific to them.
5. Don’t Stress About Gifts for People You Don’t Know Well
When it comes to gifts for people you’re not close to, like a co-worker or your brother’s new partner, it is suggested that keep things personal without getting too intimate. A thoughtful signed card or a gift card that matches their interests can be a safe, well-received option. Avoid perfumes, scented items, or clothing, as these can feel too personal.
The key here is to make them feel happy without overcomplicating things. When you don’t know someone well, you don’t need to dive into deep personal connections. Instead, pick something small that shows you thought about them. It could be as simple as knowing their favorite color or a specific hobby, like their love for vintage cocktails. Just be careful not to buy them something too generic or show-offy—focus on something quality and thoughtful, like an expert-recommended ice cube mold for the cocktail lover.
