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How to be a gift expert
Aileen Avery
Author of "Gift Rap: The History and Art of Gift Giving"
Author of "Gift Rap: The History and Art of Gift Giving"
5 Tips For Giving the Perfect Gift:
1. Know your target - this seems like a no-brainer, but sometimes we take people for granted. We can know them for years and never know what their favorite color, food, or TV show is. Whenever I'm with someone, be it friend, family member or business client, I listen for clues they give such as when they comment on their love of dark chocolate or how they wish they had _______(fill in the blank).
2. Pay attention to details - gift giving happens throughout the year, but many people only think of it right before an event. Take some time and really think about the people in your life. Write down details about that person. Do they like to do things outdoors? Are they a bookworm? Foodie? Tech head? Brainstorm gift ideas ahead of time, then when a birthday or holiday comes up, you can go to your list and buy something customized just for
them. Believe me, this really makes people feel special (especially women - hint, hint, all you men out there!)
3. Keep your eyes peeled - now that you've made your list of things your family, friends, and employers like, you can now be on the lookout for those things throughout the year. For example, if you find a wine that you especially like, buy a case and give bottles to your vino loving friends as their birthdays come up. Or, I have a friend who has a wicked sense of humor. Since I know her so well, I'm constantly searching for funny things during my travels and I collect them and store them until the next gift giving opportunity.
4. Is it a Gift or a Present? - a very important difference! A gift is something you get that the other person likes. You don't necessarily need to like it. A present is something you get that you like and you hope (or don't care) the giftee will like as well.
5. Always have a backup - when I see kids' toys that are very unique and affordable, I buy a few so that I'm not out running to the toy store on the way to the birthday party. Candles, wine, and birthday cards should always be on hand for a last minute hostess gift or "oops I forgot" gift.
1. Know your target - this seems like a no-brainer, but sometimes we take people for granted. We can know them for years and never know what their favorite color, food, or TV show is. Whenever I'm with someone, be it friend, family member or business client, I listen for clues they give such as when they comment on their love of dark chocolate or how they wish they had _______(fill in the blank).
2. Pay attention to details - gift giving happens throughout the year, but many people only think of it right before an event. Take some time and really think about the people in your life. Write down details about that person. Do they like to do things outdoors? Are they a bookworm? Foodie? Tech head? Brainstorm gift ideas ahead of time, then when a birthday or holiday comes up, you can go to your list and buy something customized just for
them. Believe me, this really makes people feel special (especially women - hint, hint, all you men out there!)
3. Keep your eyes peeled - now that you've made your list of things your family, friends, and employers like, you can now be on the lookout for those things throughout the year. For example, if you find a wine that you especially like, buy a case and give bottles to your vino loving friends as their birthdays come up. Or, I have a friend who has a wicked sense of humor. Since I know her so well, I'm constantly searching for funny things during my travels and I collect them and store them until the next gift giving opportunity.
4. Is it a Gift or a Present? - a very important difference! A gift is something you get that the other person likes. You don't necessarily need to like it. A present is something you get that you like and you hope (or don't care) the giftee will like as well.
5. Always have a backup - when I see kids' toys that are very unique and affordable, I buy a few so that I'm not out running to the toy store on the way to the birthday party. Candles, wine, and birthday cards should always be on hand for a last minute hostess gift or "oops I forgot" gift.
$8.95
plus S&H
plus S&H
Why do we give gifts at Christmas? Or for
birthdays and weddings? The answer has more to
do with history and ritual than mere thoughtful and
romantic ideas. Explore the traditions behind gift
giving holidays in "Gift Rap: The History and Art of
Gift Giving." Think outside the box and take the
stress out of finding the perfect present!
Contact information
AKA Talent Agency
6310 San Vicente Blvd., Suite 200, Los Angeles, CA 90048
(323) 965-5600
www.AileenAvery.com
AKA Talent Agency
6310 San Vicente Blvd., Suite 200, Los Angeles, CA 90048
(323) 965-5600
www.AileenAvery.com