Buying a gift for someone can be challenging, but the stakes feel even higher when it’s for someone you’ve never bought for before. Whether it’s a new friend, a colleague, a future in-law, or a new romantic partner, finding something meaningful and appropriate can feel like walking a tightrope.
Fear not! We’ll walk you through some tried-and-true techniques and ideas for how to pick a gift for someone—even if you don’t know them very well yet!
Contents
1. Start with Context
Before diving into potential gift options, consider the occasion and your relationship with the recipient. Is it a casual birthday, a formal celebration, or a gesture of appreciation? The context sets the tone for the type of gift you should aim for.
- For a professional setting, think practical or neutral gifts like desk accessories or gourmet treats.
- For a more personal relationship, explore sentimental or personalized items.
- For special occasions like weddings, milestone birthdays, or holidays, choose something celebratory that reflects the significance of the moment.
2. Do Your Homework
If you don’t know the person well, you’ll need to play detective. A little research can go a long way in making your gift feel tailored.
- Ask mutual acquaintances: If you have a friend, colleague, or family member in common, ask about the recipient’s likes, hobbies, or preferences.
- Check their social media: Platforms like Instagram or Pinterest can provide hints about their interests, favorite colors, or hobbies. For instance, do they post a lot about fitness, books, or pets?
- Observe their environment: If you’ve been to their home or workspace, look for clues like décor style, favorite colors, or displayed collections.
3. Consider Their Personality
This one’s pretty simple; understanding someone’s personality type can guide your gift selection! For example, consider:
- Practical-minded individuals: Opt for functional gifts like kitchen gadgets, high-quality notebooks, or travel organizers.
- Creative spirits: Choose gifts that fuel their imagination, such as art supplies, craft kits, or unique décor.
- Sentimental types: Go for personalized gifts like custom photo frames, engraved jewelry, or a handwritten card paired with your gift.
- Adventurous souls: Think of experiences like tickets to an event, a cooking class, or a subscription box related to their interests.
Don’t underestimate how foundational this is in learning how to pick a gift for someone!
4. Lean on Universally Loved Gifts
When in doubt, go for gifts that appeal to almost everyone. These are safe bets that still feel thoughtful:
- Edible delights: Gourmet chocolates, artisanal snacks, or specialty coffee or tea. Consider dietary restrictions or preferences if you know them.
- Cozy comforts: Soft blankets, candles, or spa sets can create a sense of warmth and relaxation.
- Gift cards: Though sometimes considered impersonal, a gift card to a popular retailer or restaurant shows thoughtfulness when paired with a kind note.
- Plants or flowers: A low-maintenance plant like a succulent or a fresh bouquet adds life and beauty without being overly specific.
5. Personalize When Possible
Even if you don’t know someone well, small touches can make your gift feel more thoughtful. For example:
- Add their name or initials: A monogrammed mug, notebook, or keychain adds a personal touch.
- Tailor to the occasion: Choose wrapping paper or packaging that reflects the season or event.
- Include a handwritten note: A heartfelt message can make even a simple gift feel special.
6. Think About Shared Experiences
If you’re gifting someone you’ve spent time with, consider moments you’ve shared. This approach works especially well for colleagues or new friends.
- Did you bond over coffee breaks? Consider a premium coffee blend or a reusable mug.
- Have you attended an event together? A framed photo or a keepsake related to the experience could be meaningful.
- Do they have a known habit or catchphrase? A playful nod to it, like a mug with a related quote, shows you’ve been paying attention.
7. Stick to Neutral Colors and Themes
If you’re unsure about someone’s taste, it’s better to play it safe. Neutral tones and universally appealing designs ensure your gift will blend seamlessly into their life. Avoid overly bold or polarizing patterns unless you’re confident in their preferences.
8. Avoid Common Pitfalls
When buying for someone new, it’s easy to make mistakes. Steer clear of these common gift-giving faux pas:
- Overly personal items: Perfumes, skincare, or clothing can feel too intimate or be hard to get right.
- Inside jokes you’re unsure about: Unless you’re certain they’ll understand, it’s better to stick to broader humor.
- Overly expensive gifts: While generosity is wonderful, an extravagant gift might make the recipient feel uncomfortable.
- Generic “filler” gifts: Items like random trinkets or mass-produced gift sets can come across as thoughtless.
9. Embrace the Power of Experiences
Sometimes, the best gifts aren’t physical items but experiences that create lasting memories. If appropriate, consider options like:
- A gift card for a local restaurant, spa, or activity.
- Tickets to a concert, theater show, or sporting event.
- A subscription service, like a streaming platform or a monthly book or snack box.
Experiences often have a personal touch without the need for deep knowledge about someone’s preferences.
10. Wrap it Up Beautifully
Presentation matters! A beautifully wrapped gift shows care and effort, even if the gift itself is simple. Choose wrapping paper, bags, or boxes that reflect the occasion. Add a ribbon, bow, or decorative tag to make it extra special.
In other words, don’t let the process of figuring out how to pick a gift for someone distract you from presenting it in a winsomely and professionally.
11. Give the Gift of Choice
If you’re genuinely unsure, consider gifts that allow the recipient to choose what they want. Subscription boxes, gift cards, or donation-based gifts (where they pick a charity to support) are thoughtful options that offer flexibility.
12. Trust Your Instincts
Finally, don’t overthink it. Sometimes, your first instinct is the best one. A gift doesn’t have to be extravagant or overly creative to be meaningful. As long as it’s chosen with care, it will be appreciated.
It Doesn’t Have To Be Perfect
Choosing a gift for someone you’ve never bought for doesn’t have to be daunting. By considering the context, doing a little research, and focusing on universal appeal or personalization, you can find something that shows thoughtfulness and care.
Also, remember that it doesn’t have to be perfect! Don’t let it create undue stress for you, and do your best to simply take a step forward with the process. After all, the gesture of giving often matters more than the gift itself.
We hope our guide helps you better navigate how to pick a gift for someone you’ve never bought for before. Happy gifting! 🎁