4 things Your Family and Friends Won’t Want to Regift

(NC) Regifting holiday presents or other gifts happens more often than people admit, but it can still sting to think your gift wasn’t truly appreciated. With these thoughtful strategies, you can be sure your gifts are cherished and won’t be given away. As a child, we always tried to get rid of fruit cake. 😛 My mom would make it because my grandparents came to visit, and they liked it.

The perfectly practical Gift
With the rising cost of living, practical gifts can be a real blessing. Instead of guessing what your loved ones need, ask them directly and give them something useful that fits their lifestyle. Whether it’s a gas card for the commuter, warm cozy socks for someone who works outdoors, or a gift card to their favorite café for the coffee or tea lover, practical gifts are always appreciated.

The enticing experience
For the minimalist or adventure-seeker, an experience is the ultimate non-re giftable present. Plus, it’s fun, and you can spend some quality time together. Consider tickets to a concert, a day of rock climbing or a fun cooking class. If you’re on a budget, create your own experience, like hosting a movie night with their favorite films or planning a homemade meal featuring their favorite dishes.

The personalized touch
Nothing says “I care” like a personalized gift. Whether it’s a monogrammed item, a custom-made piece of art or a photo book filled with shared memories, a personalized gift is unique to the recipient and unlikely to be passed on. (Before my self-mother passed away, she would put together photos in a photo book of us kids over the years. Somehow she found new photos of us! Some we never knew had been taken.)

The kind cause
Donating to a worthy cause, such as one that benefits children through better nutrition, on behalf of someone else is always a meaningful gift, and it won’t be re-gifted. Through World Vision Canada, for example, giving a goat that lives up to 12 years and produces milk daily ensures nourishment for children and offers a sustainable income for their family by selling the surplus, uplifting the entire community. Goats change lives and harvest hope.

More information is available at worldvision.ca/animals.

Even though this is from Canada, that shouldn’t stop you from checking out the ideas. Give what you can, and if you can’t donate, don’t feel bad about it. I have a couple of favorite guinea pig rescues I want to donate to this year.