Regifting: the delicate act of taking something someone gave you, slapping on new wrapping paper, and giving it to someone else. Done poorly, it can result in awkward moments, hurt feelings, and lifelong embarrassment. But when executed with finesse, regifting can be an eco-friendly, budget-conscious, and downright brilliant way to spread holiday cheer.
Let’s explore how to master the subtle art of regifting without turning your social circle into an episode of Curb Your Enthusiasm.
Regifting Doesn’t Have to be Tacky
Some people treat regifting like it’s a cardinal sin, but let’s face it—there are only so many bedazzled wine glasses and lavender bath sets a person can handle. ImRegifting can be a thoughtful, sustainable option when:
- The Gift Deserves a Better Home: That motivational calendar with daily affirmations? It might not inspire you, but I bet the Leslie Knope in your life would love it!
- It Aligns Perfectly with Someone Else’s Interests: That artisanal hot sauce set collecting dust in your pantry? Perfect for your spice-loving uncle.
- You Want to Avoid Waste: Unused items sitting in storage don’t spark joy—they spark clutter.
When NOT to Regift
Before you pull the trigger on regifting, remember these golden rules:
- Don’t Regift in the Same Circle: If there’s even a 1% chance the original giver will see their gift in someone else’s hands, abort mission immediately. (“Hey, isn’t that the scarf I knitted for you last year?” Cue awkward silence.)
- Avoid Personalized Gifts: Giving the wrong monogram isn’t just a bad regift, it is a borderline f-you statement. Avoid. Avoid. Avoid.
- Make Sure It’s both unused and still usable: No one wants a half-burned candle, a puzzle missing three pieces, or an iPod from 2002. Regifting doesn’t mean pawning off trash.
- Don’t Regift Junk: The goal is to give something the recipient will genuinely enjoy, not to offload bad gifts and expired food. If you wouldn’t give it as a first-hand gift, don’t regift it.
Need a solution for these situations? I’ll come back to this topic in Part 2.
When Regifting Can Be a Good Thing
In a world where sustainability is becoming more important, regifting is a practical way to reduce waste and extend the life of perfectly good items. It’s budget-friendly, environmentally conscious, and can bring joy to someone else—if done with care.
How to Regift Like a Pro
If you want to regift with class and confidence, follow these steps:
1. Assess the Gift’s Potential
Is it something someone else would genuinely appreciate, or is it destined for the landfill? Be honest.
2. Choose the Right Recipient
Match the gift to someone who would truly value it. That quirky cookbook you’ll never use? Perfect for your foodie friend.
3. Repackage Thoughtfully
Ensure the gift looks fresh and new: remove any gift tags, remnants of old wrapping paper and other ghosts of Christmas past. Wrap it beautifully, remove any evidence of its origins, and include a heartfelt card to make it feel special.
4. Start a Regifting Stash
Designate a drawer or shelf for items you plan to find new homes. Keep it organized and check it frequently.
PRO TIP: Keep Track of the Gifts You Give and Receive
The last thing you want is to regift the exact same scented candle to the person who gave it to you. If you want to start regifting, a simple list can save you from this holiday horror story.
Conclusion
The subtle art of regifting requires tact, humor, and a little bit of strategy. With the right approach, you can turn that unopened waffle iron or novelty wine holder into a gift that someone else will treasure. So, the next time you’re tempted to toss an unwanted gift into a closet, think twice. Regifting isn’t just recycling—it’s recycling with style.
