SMART IDEAS

November 2007

Features

Top Holiday Gift-buying Tips

Stephanie Demler, vice president of Well Wishers Int’l gives her top tips in preparing the perfect gift, as well as executing the delivery in a way all your recipients will appreciate.

• First and foremost—less stress is best. Find a reputable resource to act as a liaison between you and applicable gift vendors. Outsourcing will ultimately save you time and money.

• Know your partner. Always check a company’s references to make certain it can meet your needs; be wary of websites with “unknown gift networks.” 

• Dress to impress. Pleasing packaging makes a statement. Specify elegant gift packaging to go along with the quality of the gift itself.

• Do unto others... Be proud of the gift you send! Make sure the gift reflects the intention for which it is being sent.

• Think year-round. It makes sense to find and select a resource that can handle your gifting needs throughout the year, as well as organize arrangements and services for conferences, conventions or company meetings.

• Global should still mean local. Work with a gift supplier who can prepare a delivery locally to ensure best presentation and quality, not one that ships by UPS or the like. It will save on cost and appear more personal.  

• Stay current. May go without saying, but it is important to confirm that your recipients’ delivery addresses and phone numbers are current for timely delivery.               

• Variety is the slice of life. Individuals like to feel special, and when they continually receive the same selections, the gifts lose their impact. Consider personalizing a gift, like an imported bottle of wine with a made-to-order label, for important clients.

• Don’t be afraid to ask for help. For those who aren’t exactly sure what they are looking for, select a vendor with personnel shopping expertise. This will ensure your gift selections are both original and creative.

• Sorry, Charlie. While you always strive for excellence, if you are sending a gift as an apology, simply wish the recipient well and do not refer to the deficiency that took place.

• Nyuk, nyuk, nyuk. Some gift recipients are fun and love to joke around, but if sending a gift as a practical joke, make sure your intent is clear and unambiguous (or the joke will be on you)!