Gift Giving Etiquette from The-Gift-Wizard.com

GIFT GIVING ETIQUETTE

Dinner or Party Invitation?

When someone invites you over for a "get together", bring a small gift to show your appreciation for the invitation. This could include a bottle of wine, a candle, or flowers. While a gift in this situation isn't generally thought of as "necessary", bringing one to your host or hostess is considered proper etiquette, not to mention polite.

Etiquette for "Please, No Gifts"

It is polite and appropriate to respect the host's request if you've been invited to a gathering but asked not to bring a gift. This applies to a birthday party, graduation party, anniversary celebration, wedding, or any gift giving occasion where the invitation specifically reads: "No Gifts, Please". If you must bring "something", try a card or some other very small sentiment, or give to a charitable organization in the recipient's name.

Is money an appropriate gift?

It is appropriate to give money in a few (sparse) situations, like when a teen-ager asks for it. But try to avoid giving money. It's more thoughtful to give a gift certificate or gift card, but only if you take the time to consider the the appropriate store or restaurant. Pick something that will be enjoyable and/or useful for the gift recipient.

Other Gift Giving Hints

Don't give loud toys to children.
Don't give things that YOU want.
Always try to wrap a gift. If the time (or skill) to make it look nice isn't available, spend a dollar on a gift bag and some tissue paper.
Include a card with the gift, and actually write a personal note in it.
Don't re-gift a present that has been given unless a) it is still in it's original packaging, b) it's appropriate for the next recipient, and c) the re-gifting will NOT be discovered (by the original giver or the new recipient).
Always get a gift for a wedding, even if you can't attend (unless "no gifts" were requested).
Always bring a gift to a shower, but don't feel obligated to do so if unable to attend.

Business Gift Giving

Business gifts are appropriate in the following situations:

Close of a business deal (beware of international etiquette)
Group gifts for a retirement, serious illness, or other momentous occasion
Holidays (like a Secret Santa or grab bag)

In a business situation, don't give gifts that are:

Personal in nature (perfume, red roses, etc.)
Only from you (give outside of the office in this situation)
In violation of company policy (check your company guidelines)
Not considerate of a person's culture, diet, environment, etc.

GIFT RECEIVING ETIQUETTE

Up to Gift Giving Etiquette

When you receive a gift, no matter what you think of it, say "Thank you". Accept any gift politely and remember that it's a GIFT that was not necessary.

Thank You Notes

"Thank You" notes are highly regarded in the gift giving etiquette world. They are particularly common after a bridal shower, baby shower, or wedding. However, if the gift was opened in front of the giver when it was given, then a "Thank You" note isn't absolutely necessary, although it is still appropriate. "Thank You" notes don't have to be completely formal, either. The importance is in the sentiment.