I’ve loved picking out gifts for people since I was a little kid saving up my cat-sitting cash to buy just the right thing for my family, but I’ve got a spotty record with the actual gift giving—precisely because I love it so much and have always set the bar really high. It’s not enough to give a gift to someone, it has to be the BEST gift for that particular person. Here’s what I mean:
- You need to “show ‘em that you know ‘em”. Choose something that speaks to a particular interest or hobby that they have, or that references a place that’s meaningful to them, or a shared experience you had. Even just choosing something that’s in their favorite color can achieve this goal.
- Give something that’s quality made and long-lasting. Gag-gifts and/or disposable trendy items are right out, as are things that will get tossed into the junk drawer and/or the regifting pile the minute you’re out of sight.
- I always prefer to give something that they’ll keep around in plain sight and/or use frequently. It’s a happy reminder of y-o-u that they’ll likely keep for many years to come!
- Choose something that reflects a bit of your own personality. The very best gifts connect the giver + the getter in some kind of meaningful way.
With art for everyone,
Jen Bekman
