How to Earn a Reputation as a Thoughtful Gift Giver
Posted In
August 19, 2025
Posted On
Written by Stephanie Kehr
No more gatekeeping. The thoughtful gift givers in your life are using these principles to earn their reputation.
Chapters
- 6 Ways to Earn a Reputation as a Thoughtful Gift Giver
- Gift Giving Is an Excuse to Know People Better
Someone once told me, “You’re so good at choosing the right gift.” And I’ve been chasing that high ever since. There’s no better feeling than watching someone squeal over a present that shows you really get them — and every holiday, I spend a ridiculous amount of energy making this happen.
Picking out the right present is often considered a natural instinct or love language. But I don’t believe the experience should be reserved just for people who are naturally “good” at it. In fact, I think we’ve been gatekeeping our secrets. You can absolutely become an excellent gift giver when you follow these guidelines.
6 Ways to Earn a Reputation as a Thoughtful Gift Giver
Shop All Year Long Like It’s Your Job
I can’t tell you the amount of times I’ve gone to a cute boutique in July and thought, “This handmade purse would be perfect for my cousin.” Then, I promptly leave the item behind because it’s not Christmas or her birthday, and I’m on a budget. Yet, four months later, I’m scrambling on Amazon for a gift that’s half as nice and twice as expensive. Make it make sense.
Here’s a secret: thoughtful gift givers aren’t waiting for the holiday rush. We’re shopping all year round at cute boutiques and buying things you can’t find anywhere else. Sure, it’s intimidating to begin Christmas shopping in March, and you’ll have to get really familiar with your checklist. But trust me, there are so many benefits to shopping throughout the year.
For example, you’ll support local businesses, you’ll find truly unique pieces, and you’ll never have to fight the Christmas crowds at Costco. When the holidays roll around, you’ll simply pull gifts out of your closet and spend the rest of your time baking cookies. Remember, the best gifts are the ones you have plenty of time to think about.
The One Question to Ask for Practical vs. Impractical Gifts
The right practical gift can make people feel comfortable and well-cared for on a daily basis. That blender or skincare set you’ve been eyeing for your mom is the gift that keeps on giving. But we need to be mindful when taking this route, since some gifts are simply too practical. After all, you’re reading this because you don’t want to turn into the aunt who stocks everyone’s underwear drawers on Christmas morning.
When debating between practical and impractical gifts, I like to ask the question: does this person need stability or pampering in their life right now? This answer will change every year, and it’ll give you the opportunity to rotate practical and impractical gifts by season of life. People who need stability will deeply appreciate a gift that’s going to make their life easier. People who need a little pampering will love the frivolous gift they’d never dare to buy for themself.
Your Money Goes Further with Handcrafted Gifts
Twenty dollars spent on Amazon isn’t the same twenty dollars spent at a craft fair. Boutiques, vintage shops, craft fairs, and farmers markets are often far superior to Amazon, and your money will feel more meaningful there. You’ll find items that are well-tailored to your friends and family, and more unique than something you can get from a Google search. If your budget is small, these are the places to spend it, since you’ll pack more meaning and intention into each purchase.
If you’re a crafty person, handmade gifts are a beautiful way to show care and intention, too. Just make sure you put real thought and effort into the pieces you make, and invest in high-quality materials. Even a handmade gift should say, “I’m glad to know you well.”
Know People Deeply
Yes, Christmas and birthday gifts are usually expected. But a well-seasoned gift giver knows their real goal isn’t just to give, but to make someone feel seen. The art of thoughtful gifts isn’t about the physical object; it’s about deeply knowing someone. Be intentional about having conversations with your loved ones’ special interests, and think of your gifts as conversation starters.
Observe Well
If you want to earn a reputation as a thoughtful gift giver, you need to keep your notes app handy. When your aunt tells you, “I don’t have time to shop for perfume anymore,” ask about her favorite scents and write them down.
Throughout the year, you’ll have plenty of time to observe what items could make your friends’ and family’s lives easier. Maybe your dad’s obsessed with ice cream, so you get him an ice cream maker. Or your sister mentions how much she loves trying different tea flavors, and you stop by a specialty tea shop to get her some samplings. These are simple gifts, but they earn you excellent gift giver status with the right intention.
Get What People Won’t Buy for Themselves
Even the relatives who seemingly have everything stick to a budget. There will be simple pleasures they deny themselves for the sake of finances. An excellent gift giver notices these gaps and works to fill them. Luxury coffee, an appliance upgrade, vintage jewelry, and a musical instrument are all on the table. Notice your loved ones’ favorite hobbies and simple pleasures, and find gifts that meet them in that space.
The Bottom Line: Gift Giving Is a Good Excuse for Getting to Know People Better
As the brilliant Maya Angelou puts it, “People will never forget how you made them feel.” Gifts are just one avenue you can use to show love and affection through your actions. If you’re going to give a present, you should do it well. There’s no special talent, spark, or creativity you need. Just a desire to make people feel known.
*This article contains affiliate links, so I may receive a commission if you make a purchase. I only partner with brands that I absolutely love and personally use.
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