December 21, 2011 THE VILLADOM TIMES III & IV • Page 13 Deciding on and paying for holiday gifts can be a challenge under the best circumstances. Then there are the inevitable “sticky situations” that can leave even the most experienced gift-givers scratching their heads. In the hopes of dodging major gift gaffes this holiday season, here are a few tips for gracious giving and receiving. Review your gift list each year to determine if any relationships have changed and require a shift in your giftgiving plan. Don’t ask non-family members on your gift list what they would like. This not only spoils the surprise, but puts pressure on recipients to gauge how much you want to spend and requires them to get you something in return. Don’t feel obligated to match what others spend. Buying gifts based on what others spend is both unnecessary and can lead to excessive expenditures. For workplace gifts, adhere to the company’s policies and make sure that gifts are given out of appreciation, not expectation. Avoid major gift-giving gaffes this holiday season Including a gift receipt is a good idea and avoids potentially awkward situations when an item doesn’t fit or doesn’t work. Give holiday tips to those individuals whose service you count on throughout the year, such as hairstylists, babysitters, dog walkers, et al. An easy rule of thumb for holiday season tips is to double the usual tip. For household employees, give one week’s pay. If someone surprises you with a gift, the best bet is to respond honestly. Let the giver know that you are surprised, touched, and appreciative as well as a bit embarrassed that you don’t have a gift in return. Then let it go and add his/her name to your gift list for the following year. Don’t arrive at holiday gatherings empty-handed. A small gift, bottle of wine, or contribution to the evening’s edibles is the right way to thank your hosts for their invitation. Acknowledging gift givers is a must, but formal, writ- ten thank you cards are optional. While handwritten notes are always preferable and greatly appreciated, e-mails are increasingly acceptable, especially for young people. “Regifting” is now considered an acceptable practice, as long as it’s done thoughtfully, tastefully, and within the following guidelines: The “regifted” item should not be homemade or made especially for you. The item should be new, unused, and in its original packaging, along with instructions. Be sure to remove all previous wrapping and gift tags.