Etiquette question concerning gifts

[Goathead]

What do you do if you find out somebody has bought you a gift but you didn't get them anything? Is it cool to buy something for them and then give it to them after Christmas? I just found out somebody got me something who I totally wasn't expecting anything from and I want to get them something.

[ayeshahaqqiqa]

1. depends on the person

I've had that happen, but the giver told me NOT to get them anything. If that isn't the case, I'd get the person a gift card of some sort.

[tjdee]

2. Happened to me too. My neighbor got something, I didn't.

I felt really bad.

But wondering if I have to get them something after Christmas, especially because now I'm probably going to be spending at least 100 bucks on stupid...car stuff.

[skygazer]

3. Well, technically the purpose of a gift

Is to give. For it to have to be reciprocal kind of removes the whole generous nature of the idea. If you want to give the person a gift because you like them and know something they'd like, buy 'em a gift. If you want to because they gave you something, that's fairly lame - and transparent if it's late.

If you really want to do the right thing according to etiquette, send them a thank you note.

[serryjw]

7. a thank you is always appropriate......and

if you feel silly giving a gift after Xmas just because they di....maybe you can donate some money to a cause they would support and mention it in your thanks you.

[Solly Mack]

4. You're under no obligation to get them a gift

A gift is just that...something someone gives to you without strings attached.


A simple "Thank you" will suffice.

[murielm99]

5. I always keep supplies of stuff on hand just for that purpose.

Homemade cookies, little bookmarks, bottles of hand lotion...

It is mainly so I don't forget someone.

But you are under no obligation to reciprocate. A gift is a gift, and should have no strings attached.

[iamjoy]

6. Just Be Honest

I mean, don't play like, "I left it at home."

A cuple of different options depending on your relationship with the person & your budget

(Admit you hadn't anticipated exchanging gifts this year)

1. If you find something you really think the person will like (not just buying it 'cos they got you something) it is okay to give it late.

2. Consider a charitable donation in their name if you know there is a cause they support/like.

3. Take them out for a nice (but not necessarily over the top) dinner. Don't make a big deal about it being a Christmas gift, but just a thoughtful gesture from a friend.

4. A sincere, hand written thank you note that specifically mentions what the present is and how you will use it.

[proud2BlibKansan]

8. Run out tomorrow and get a gift.

You stil have one shopping day left until Christmas.