As many people are on a quest to get organized in the new year, a common question is what should be done with unwanted gifts? I know there have been times that I have received something that I already had. Not wanting to upset the gift giver, I graciously say thank you and start plotting what to do next.
I personally think it is completely fine to re-gift. There are times when I receive a gift that I can’t use but I know someone else would love! Why not save the item until the next appropriate Holiday?
I do think it is wise to remember who the gift came from though. I am careful to not re-gift to the same family. Most of the time the unwanted gifts stay in my gift stockpile. I use these items as backups when I need a present at the spur of the moment.
Another idea for an unwanted gift is to donate it. If you have extra room, you might want to save the items to donate next Christmas when most charities are in need of gifts.
If you receive unwanted gift cards, you can sell or trade gift cards at site like Plastic Jungle. You can get cash or another store gift card to replace your unwanted card. If you are looking for a great deal on discount gift cards, Plastic Jungle is the place to look!
I always suggest sending a thank you card whether you like the gift or not. To me, it is always the thought that counts and not the actual gift that makes it special. Also, be prepared to answer questions if the gift giver asks about the item sometime down the road!
What do you think, do you think re-gifting is acceptable?
Photo Credit Saqaun Stimpson
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I am a firm believer in re-gifting IF it is a gift that I would keep, but simply don’t have a specific use for. Otherwise, donate it or find another purpose for its life.
I love your additional comment on thank you notes! I think that writing thank you cards is a dying art in today’s world and it makes me sad!! I well written (and thoughtful) thank you note can go a long, long way.
Thanks for this great post!
Alecia,
Yes, I really think thank you cards are a dying art. I had my boys make cards for everyone that sent gifts to them this year. I really want them to learn to express gratitude. Plus, I think we all enjoy getting handwritten mail- it is such a rare thing these days.
I agree! Recently we received a Leapfrog toy that we already had. I never ended up taking it back to the store and when my friend’s daughter had a birthday party, we gave that as a gift. It was a great present – just one that we already had. We don’t do it often but it worked out in this particular situation. As long as you are giving a gift that you truly believe your the recipeint will love, I think its fine!
And I have to agree with you on the thank you cards! Which reminds me that I need to get on that!!
And I have to agree on