Gifts, Don't Waste Your Money

Don't waste your money on unwanted or junk gifts.

Yes - there are out there and with $3 a gallon gas and rising mortgage payments, the idea of throw away gifts seems a little crazy.

So how do you make sure that your gift doesn't fall into the the re-gift, never used or donated pile? Well follow the gift check list.

Gifts in Need get Used - They may not be the most glamorous gifts or cause yelling and screaming when opened, but gifts that fill a real need and can help fill or meet a real demand and are remembered.

- You get tips on these type of gifts in daily conversion or just by paying attention. (like - the garbage disposal broke, the dryer is not working, I need something painted, the kids wear clothes that are to small, or the clothes have holes, etc...)
Sometimes these gifts cost money, but sometimes it is the gift of help (2 babysitting coupons, offering to paint a room, help install insulation, cut firewood, fix things, clothing, etc...) that can really touch a person.

Gifts that are Wanted - Sometimes get Used
There are several kinds of wanted gift categories.
Wanted because of need.
Wanted because of existing enjoyment (hobby, interest, sport)
Wanted because of popularity / cool factor

- Wanted by need is a an item that is needed and tends to make life easier. Examples would include hair dryer, new clothes, tools, kitchen accessories, electric blankets.
These type of gifts often get used in daily life.

- Wanted buy enjoyment something that makes a hobby, sport or interest better. Sports equipment, books, coins, baseball cards, toys, games, etc...
These types of gifts get used of referenced today and months and years later

- Wanted by popularity / cool factor; These are the it gifts iPods, tech toys, branded clothing, Wii's, the they are getting it and I want it too.
These are hit and miss gifts some stay in favor for years like the iPod, Wii's but others can quickly be placed on the back shelf. This tends to happen most with 12 - 20 year olds who tend to be most influenced by social trends.
Sometimes gift cards are best for this type of gift as you can't get the wrong one if they choose it.

Gifts based on I think they might like it.
Welcome to ebay gifts and future re-gifting land. This tends to happen when you don't know the person your buying for and needed to buy a gift.
I saw some of these gifts in circulars this past Sunday Hmmmm...

Let's see - Chatter Pillows $15 - Fun for ummm... (not fun)
Beer Bucket Gift Set $20 - Save the money and buy a case instead
Power Grill Brush $20 - Get a normal brush it's larger, cheaper and faster
and the list goes on...

The point I am trying to make is you work hard for your money and take the time an extra 30 minutes to an hour and think about your gifts. If you are really stumped ask for a list and if everything on the list is overpriced see if other relatives or friends would want to go together to get that special gift.

Happy Holidays the Gift Guy