How to Regift with Care
In our eco-conscious world, recycling often extends beyond materials to gifts. Did you still receive a gift in its original box with a tag with someone else’s name? Or, perhaps it’s a duplicate and not needed.
Regifting, passing on a received gift to someone else, can be a thoughtful gesture or a potentially hurtful experience, depending on how it’s handled. The key lies in your intention and the care you take.
Is Regifting Right for You?
Opinions on regifting vary widely, so it’s essential to tread carefully. When you give a gift, the recipient typically assumes that you chose it specifically for them. This assumption can make regifting a sensitive issue.
A better alternative might be to donate the gift to a charity or give it as a token of thanks without wrapping it. However, if you decide to regift, follow these tips to ensure your gesture is received warmly:
- Choose Thoughtfully: Ensure the gift is something the new recipient will genuinely appreciate and enjoy and is still in its original box
- Avoid Awkward Situations: Make sure there’s no chance the original gift giver will find out you passed their gift along. Keep a log of gifts received and always check it before regifting. You certainly don’t want to give it to the person who gave it to you in the first place. This has happened.
- Maintain the Illusion: It’s crucial to ensure the new recipient won’t discover that the gift was initially intended for someone else. Being found out could strain relationships or even cost you a friendship. So, be discreet and maintain the illusion of a successful regifting experience.
Regifting Done Right
When done with care and consideration, regifting can be a practical way to give a gift a new home. Always keep the recipient’s feelings at the forefront of your decision and ensure your gesture is in the spirit of kindness and generosity. When done right, regifting can be a win-win situation for both the giver and the recipient.
Share your regifting tips or stories.
