My Guide to Gift Giving

I like to think that I’m typically a good gift giver and I do put a bit of effort into it. Buying gifts can be so hard, especially for that person that has everything and especially at Christmas when we’re often buying quiet a few gifts and are on a budget so here are my tips…

Start now
You don’t have to actually start buying the gifts now but you should at least start planning. Write a list of everything that you want to buy a gift for, from your boyfriend to the postman and everyone in-between. It’s also worth working out a budget for everyone so you don’t over spend.

Make notes
This is my top tip as simply going out and buying a gift for someone on a whim is very tricky, especially if you want to make it special. Write down any ideas which pop into your head for each individual person and look out for hints or mentions of items or stores from that person. For example, if your friend mentions she’s been looking for the perfect purse add it to your list of potential gifts for her. I recently saw a few little girls wearing the cutest faux fur coats which I think my younger cousin would look adorable in so I’ve added that to my list of what to buy for her.

Buy at the right time
It’s Black Friday in just a few days, look out for great offers- I’ll be writing a blog post all about it!
Personalised Gifts
There’s something super special about a personalised gift, I think it’s because it (typically) proves it wasn’t bought last minute. Also, personalisation no longer has to cost a lot of money, in fact a lot of stores offer it free of charge during the Christmas period. Alternatively I always find that offer some beautiful affordable pieces, from jewellery to wall art.

Go luxury
I’m not saying spend lots of money and this idea doesn’t apply to everyone but it’s perfect for the person that has everything. Buy a smaller but more luxurious gift and this works even on a smaller budget. If you’re spending looking to spend £25 often a Chanel lipstick can be a little more of a special gift than a £25 pair of shoes.

Put some effort in
This one is tricky and it’s so easy to just buy something the person will kind-of-like but that defeats the purpose. If you want to buy them a gift for someone it’s probably because they’re someone special so put in the effort and get them something they’ll really like.

My favourite stores to look in for gift ideas are:
, and good old Amazon.

I’d love to hear your tips in the comments! Have you started, or even finished, your Christmas shopping?