One Man's Junk Is Another Man's Treasure

We have all gotten gifts that we absolutely love. Opening a gift and being delightfully surprised at how well thought out and perfect it is for you is always a wonderful thing. Of coarse there are those times when you open a gift, plaster on a fake smile, and say "Thank You!" All the while your mind is reeling with idea's of how to get it out of your presence as quickly as possible. So, what do you do with the unwanted gifts?

It would be so nice if every gift came with a gift receipt so they could be easily returned, but the reality is most do not. The important thing to remember is, just because a gift may not suit your particular style and taste, does not mean it wouldn't be absolutely perfect for someone else. Of coarse it would be great if I opened a gift I didn't like, and thought "I know the perfect person for this gift!" but that rarely happens.  Because there usually isn't an immediate designee for the gifts I intend to regift, I have a large bin I keep them in until a time arises. Furthermore, over the years my bin of gifts has seen multiple purposes. I have had gifts that have made excellent Bridal Shower prizes, gifts that were great for a game of White Elephant, and sometimes a gift becomes absolutely perfect for a holiday crafting/decor purpose years later!

There are many reasons people choose to regift a gift. Maybe they simply couldn't afford a new gift at the time. Maybe it is an extremely nice gift that they know they will never use, but want to make sure it is enjoyed by someone else instead of sitting in a cupboard or closet for decades collecting dust. Perhaps they just didn't have time to find a new gift, or maybe they are just extremely frugal (to put it nicely). Regardless of the reason there are some rules that apply to regifting. First, you need to answer the question, "Will the recipient like the gift?" If the answer is "maybe" or "I don't know" and you still intend to give it to them, then you mustn't be upset if  that person regifts your gift as well. Next, your regift must also be in perfect, or nearly perfect condition! Giving a used heirloom vase is a lot different than cleaning up a used toaster and wrapping it up. Finally, it would also be wise to regift to someone who is outside the circle of family and friends of the person who originally gave you the gift first. Imagine the insult your mother would feel when she see's the sweater she bought you on your sister's best friend!

There is absolutely nothing wrong with regifting gifts as long as it's done with courtesy and tact. Why should a perfectly good gift, that just isn't perfect for you, go to waste. As the saying goes: "One man's junk is another man's treasure."

What is the worst gift you have ever given or gotten? Do you re-gift your gifts?