The University of Ottawa’s guide to … reduce, re-use and re-gift
Every Christmas it is almost inevitable that we end up with an excessive amount of needless, redundant gifts ranging from pot holders and dish towels to pyjamas and socks. Regifting, a phenomenon that has been made widely popular by comedian Jerry Seinfeld, is the act of taking these unwanted gifts and simply giving them to someone else. This act does not have to consist solely of scandalously repackaging a previously received piece of crapola, that is where these tips come in handy. If you are thinking of regifting during the holidays this year, here are some factors you should consider before re-wrapping that matching hello kitty jewellery set.
Is the item regiftable? Anything handmade or one of a kind item is not a regift material. This means the Rudolph sweater your grandma hand knitted and the embroidered underwear from Aunt Carol are totally out of the question. Signed books or anything personalized also does not qualify as a regiftable item. Free promotional gifts and half used gift cards are also a big no-no in the world of re-gifting, but hopefully that goes without saying.
What kind of shape is the gift in? Only unopened, new gifts can be regifted. Do not try and regift that silverware set you have only used twice, as anything without packaging can be easily identified as a re-wrap. Try to keep the recycled gift as recent as possible. As a general rule of thumb: if you have to dust if off, it is not suitable. Also consider the outer appearance of the regift. A nice gift bag can always be reused but wrapping paper is a one time deal. Take the time and effort to spring for a new bow and gift tag; it will really give your old gift some new life.
Is the regift going to work? Make sure you know exactly who the gift came from before giving it to someone else. The last thing anyone wants is their seemingly thoughtful gift given back to them a year later. It is also important to consider if the recipient is going to come into contact with the original gift giver.
What are your intentions? Remember, the purpose of regifting is not just to simply give any gift. Make sure you put some thought into the regift and are positive that it is something the recipient will really enjoy. If time is the reason you are considering regifting, remember that gift cards are available everywhere from grocery stores to gas stations and are always well received.
Finally, remember to consider your options. If you are feeling a little guilty when considering the option of gift recycling, remember that an unwanted gift could find a place in a friend or family member’s home or be a welcomed donation to a charitable organization. Chances are there is someone out there who asked Santa for your unwanted gift, after all ‘tis the giving season!
Photo credits:
http://k107scot.blogspot.ca/2011/12/re-giftingis-that-ok.html