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Presents for difficult people

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By *naswingdress OP   Woman
over a year ago

Manchester (she/her)

What do you give someone as a present when you don't know what to get them?

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I have this same problem right now!

I used to give vouchers for experiences like track days or a restaurant. But even those ideas are exhausted now too!

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By *EAT..85Woman
over a year ago

Nottingham

I gave someone a piece of wood a few weeks back. Just so that I could say I'd given them wood...

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Cash in a card

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By *estarossa.Woman
over a year ago

Flagrante

A faraday pouch for their car key.

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By *adtaffladMan
over a year ago

Rhyl

Just get them something you know they won't like as the end result will probably be the same

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By *mf123Man
over a year ago

with one foot out the door

I get them ice pops

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

If they drink, i usually just get them a bottle of something I know they like and some chocolates. It’s a safe option.

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By *rlandoMan
over a year ago

Lincolnshire

somthing really shite , it s the thought that counts , give them the opportunity to show gratitude ?

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

The charity gifts like a goat can be ok for some people if they're not hugely consumerist.

Plants, something from the year they were born, make your own cheese, taster pack of beer/chocolate/spices.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

An autographed picture of me, lying on an animal skin rug.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Gift credit card or bank card

Basically a bank card that you can top up

And they can spend it online just like a normal bank card

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"An autographed picture of me, lying on an animal skin rug."

That is top tier to be honest

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

A hamster

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By *lexm87Man
over a year ago

Various

Random book from a charity shop. A 1970's guide to Luton's bus network and art galleries, for example.

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By *r.SJMan
over a year ago

Wellingborough


"I gave someone a piece of wood a few weeks back. Just so that I could say I'd given them wood... "

I often give wood for both birthdays and Christmas.

Alternatively... a tube of pringles and two chocolate oranges. It's hard to wrap but great for the entertainment value!

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By *ueerKinkyCoupleCouple
over a year ago

Cambridge (She/They And They/Them)

There are websites where you can get a celebrity to say something to them, such as the remaining Chuckle Brother saying “Happy Birthday, Brian” which, frankly, I think is peak birthday right there.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"An autographed picture of me, lying on an animal skin rug."

My birthday soon, just saying.

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By *inky_couple2020Couple
over a year ago

North West

Give them a framed picture of you, OP

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By *otSoPoshWoman
over a year ago

In a ball gown because that's how we roll in N. Devon

Check your box, OP...

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By *rlandoMan
over a year ago

Lincolnshire


"What do you give someone as a present when you don't know what to get them?"

Pay their electric Bill ... or buy them a Dildo and post it to them anonymously

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By *icecouple561Couple
Forum Mod

over a year ago

East Sussex

tokens.

I think the basics such as good chocolates, wine or decent cheese and chutney for savoury people are underestimated. I really appreciate things like that.

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By *ellinever70Woman
over a year ago

Ayrshire

Spend some time with them having dinner or taking them for a day trip

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By *inky_couple2020Couple
over a year ago

North West


"Spend some time with them having dinner or taking them for a day trip "

^^^This is a splendid idea

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By *ad NannaWoman
over a year ago

East London

We club together and buy a theatre experience so they can choose what to see.

I hate buying adults presents.

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By *ad NannaWoman
over a year ago

East London


"tokens.

I think the basics such as good chocolates, wine or decent cheese and chutney for savoury people are underestimated. I really appreciate things like that."

One of my best ever presents was a hessian bag with 12 different little jars of marmalades, preserves and jams.

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By *ou only live onceMan
over a year ago

London

When I was younger I went through a phase of buying all the 'awkwards' kites. I suspect I'm responsible for lots of couples' "what are we still doing with that?" conversations now.

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By *UGGYBEAR2015Man
over a year ago

BRIDPORT

Nothing.

If you are two much grief to buy for, I just don’t bother, if I get questioned as to why I didn’t get someone something I just tell ‘em you’re too much of a pain in the ass to buy for.

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By *icecouple561Couple
Forum Mod

over a year ago

East Sussex


"tokens.

I think the basics such as good chocolates, wine or decent cheese and chutney for savoury people are underestimated. I really appreciate things like that.

One of my best ever presents was a hessian bag with 12 different little jars of marmalades, preserves and jams.

"

Monty Bojangles truffles was one of mine and gorgeous shower gel that I wouldn't buy for myself.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

A gift card for a restaurant with enough money for them and a +1.

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By *aitonelMan
over a year ago

Liverpool

Have a think, then tell them it's the thought that counts.

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By *929Man
over a year ago

bedlington

Just giving money is easier they I have done for years my mother used to complain but fuck her shouldn’t be so bastard awkward

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I ask them what they want. Pointless buying something they don't want and will never use.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"Nothing.

If you are two much grief to buy for, I just don’t bother, if I get questioned as to why I didn’t get someone something I just tell ‘em you’re too much of a pain in the ass to buy for. "

This!

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By *naswingdress OP   Woman
over a year ago

Manchester (she/her)


"I ask them what they want. Pointless buying something they don't want and will never use.

"

I tried that

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By *urvytreatWoman
over a year ago

somewhere nice

Sounds silly but if they’re a parent of youngsters, offer to babysit and give them £30 to go out. You’d be surprised how appropriated it will be

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By *amantha_JadeWoman
over a year ago

Newcastle

I’d get them a dining out gift card. They can usually be spent at loads of different places - restaurants and pubs. Surely anyone would appreciate that.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"I ask them what they want. Pointless buying something they don't want and will never use.

I tried that "

If they gave me no ideas I'd just get them a card.

I'm getting to be a right crabby old bitch in my old age.

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By *coobyBoobyDooWoman
over a year ago

Markfield

A kazoo.

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By *riar BelisseWoman
over a year ago

Delightful Bliss

Cash in a card

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By *a LunaWoman
over a year ago

South Wales

Can’t go wrong with a hamper!

Be it a cheese hamper

A chocolate hamper

A tea hamper

A coffee hamper

There is always a hamper for every available taste!

Throw in a balloon as well for that added je ne sais quoi.

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By *andycandy88Woman
over a year ago

Northolt

Money or shopping vouchers

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By *uri00620Woman
over a year ago

Croydon

I got a big box who Who Gives a Crap? toilet paper. It was their puzzle edition. Find the toilet just like Where's Wally in a range of wrappers from Space to the Pyramids ect.

Perfect for the recipient who enjoys lengthy time on the toilet and who likes puzzles!

I also bought them a taxidermy rat with a Superman t-shirt on. Cool and gross in equal measure.

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By *oggoneMan
over a year ago

Derry

A few years back I got tired of thinking of what presents to buy people. Everyone got a torch.

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By *icecouple561Couple
Forum Mod

over a year ago

East Sussex

I think sometimes we all try too hard and it's exhausting. Was it BHS that used to have shelves of absolute tatt at Christmas time, specifically aimed at people trying to find something different? Marmite chocolate, grow your own bonsai tree...at least shower gel is actually useful

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By *naswingdress OP   Woman
over a year ago

Manchester (she/her)


"I think sometimes we all try too hard and it's exhausting. Was it BHS that used to have shelves of absolute tatt at Christmas time, specifically aimed at people trying to find something different? Marmite chocolate, grow your own bonsai tree...at least shower gel is actually useful "

I could never fathom those sorts of gifts. It's why I worry about getting it right

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Buy the ten cheapest items you might like from Temu/Wish/Ali Express and keep the ones you like, gift the ones you don't.

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By *eneralKenobiMan
over a year ago

North Angus

I dunno my sister has been waiting on a gift since may

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"I ask them what they want. Pointless buying something they don't want and will never use.

I tried that "

If they said "oh there's no need", take them at their word

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Shop card with money on it.

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By *icecouple561Couple
Forum Mod

over a year ago

East Sussex


"I think sometimes we all try too hard and it's exhausting. Was it BHS that used to have shelves of absolute tatt at Christmas time, specifically aimed at people trying to find something different? Marmite chocolate, grow your own bonsai tree...at least shower gel is actually useful

I could never fathom those sorts of gifts. It's why I worry about getting it right "

I used to, then I realised that most people appreciate whatever you give them as long as some thought has gone in to it. Don't buy milk chocolate for a dark chocolate lover but do buy them some exquisite hand made, single origin chocolates. I also realised that the friend I had the most difficulty buying for was the one who had criticised gifts other people have her, that was a liberating moment

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By *TinyDelight-Woman
over a year ago

City Centre

[Removed by poster at 07/08/23 09:50:33]

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By *TinyDelight-Woman
over a year ago

City Centre


"An autographed picture of me, lying on an animal skin rug."

Brilliant idea. That's Christmas sorted for everyone I know

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By *obilebottomMan
over a year ago

All over

A nice hamper of lovely foods is always great and appreciated.

You could of course offer to pay their next energy bill but hurry and do it in the summer when it's not as bad before the bad weather hits and they go sky high again

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By *naswingdress OP   Woman
over a year ago

Manchester (she/her)


"I think sometimes we all try too hard and it's exhausting. Was it BHS that used to have shelves of absolute tatt at Christmas time, specifically aimed at people trying to find something different? Marmite chocolate, grow your own bonsai tree...at least shower gel is actually useful

I could never fathom those sorts of gifts. It's why I worry about getting it right

I used to, then I realised that most people appreciate whatever you give them as long as some thought has gone in to it. Don't buy milk chocolate for a dark chocolate lover but do buy them some exquisite hand made, single origin chocolates. I also realised that the friend I had the most difficulty buying for was the one who had criticised gifts other people have her, that was a liberating moment"

I think it's partly a me problem. Gifts are my love language and I want to get them right. This person is exceptionally difficult to buy for and not a friendship where I'd want to phone it in.

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By *ister_ee_1981Man
over a year ago

Sunniest Exeter...


"What do you give someone as a present when you don't know what to get them?"

A plot... Everyone will need one

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By *arkus1812Man
over a year ago

Lifes departure lounge NN9 Northamptonshire East not West MidlandsMidlands

I have it sussed when it comes to Daugher and hubby and thee grandkids and close friends.

However my Sister is a difficult one, widowed about a year ago she has everything, Money,Houses, Cars and a well stocked wine cellar.

Guess Flowers are my only option

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By *icecouple561Couple
Forum Mod

over a year ago

East Sussex


"I have it sussed when it comes to Daugher and hubby and thee grandkids and close friends.

However my Sister is a difficult one, widowed about a year ago she has everything, Money,Houses, Cars and a well stocked wine cellar.

Guess Flowers are my only option "

You could make her some of your cakes

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"I think sometimes we all try too hard and it's exhausting. Was it BHS that used to have shelves of absolute tatt at Christmas time, specifically aimed at people trying to find something different? Marmite chocolate, grow your own bonsai tree...at least shower gel is actually useful

I could never fathom those sorts of gifts. It's why I worry about getting it right

I used to, then I realised that most people appreciate whatever you give them as long as some thought has gone in to it. Don't buy milk chocolate for a dark chocolate lover but do buy them some exquisite hand made, single origin chocolates. I also realised that the friend I had the most difficulty buying for was the one who had criticised gifts other people have her, that was a liberating moment

I think it's partly a me problem. Gifts are my love language and I want to get them right. This person is exceptionally difficult to buy for and not a friendship where I'd want to phone it in."

Do they want a gift?

All the suggestions on this thread I'd hate to receive. Chocs, hampers, toiletries. They'd all get re-gifted.

I ask people not to buy things because it's a waste of their money.

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By *icolerobbieCouple
over a year ago

walsall


"I ask them what they want. Pointless buying something they don't want and will never use.

I tried that "

What was their response?

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By *icecouple561Couple
Forum Mod

over a year ago

East Sussex


"I think sometimes we all try too hard and it's exhausting. Was it BHS that used to have shelves of absolute tatt at Christmas time, specifically aimed at people trying to find something different? Marmite chocolate, grow your own bonsai tree...at least shower gel is actually useful

I could never fathom those sorts of gifts. It's why I worry about getting it right

I used to, then I realised that most people appreciate whatever you give them as long as some thought has gone in to it. Don't buy milk chocolate for a dark chocolate lover but do buy them some exquisite hand made, single origin chocolates. I also realised that the friend I had the most difficulty buying for was the one who had criticised gifts other people have her, that was a liberating moment

I think it's partly a me problem. Gifts are my love language and I want to get them right. This person is exceptionally difficult to buy for and not a friendship where I'd want to phone it in.

Do they want a gift?

All the suggestions on this thread I'd hate to receive. Chocs, hampers, toiletries. They'd all get re-gifted.

I ask people not to buy things because it's a waste of their money. "

Is there something you'd really like? If I got you in secret Santa what would you like to unwrap?

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Still going with the hamster tbh

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By *naswingdress OP   Woman
over a year ago

Manchester (she/her)


"I think sometimes we all try too hard and it's exhausting. Was it BHS that used to have shelves of absolute tatt at Christmas time, specifically aimed at people trying to find something different? Marmite chocolate, grow your own bonsai tree...at least shower gel is actually useful

I could never fathom those sorts of gifts. It's why I worry about getting it right

I used to, then I realised that most people appreciate whatever you give them as long as some thought has gone in to it. Don't buy milk chocolate for a dark chocolate lover but do buy them some exquisite hand made, single origin chocolates. I also realised that the friend I had the most difficulty buying for was the one who had criticised gifts other people have her, that was a liberating moment

I think it's partly a me problem. Gifts are my love language and I want to get them right. This person is exceptionally difficult to buy for and not a friendship where I'd want to phone it in.

Do they want a gift?

All the suggestions on this thread I'd hate to receive. Chocs, hampers, toiletries. They'd all get re-gifted.

I ask people not to buy things because it's a waste of their money. "

I don't think they'd say they wanted a gift, but that'd be out of politeness, if that makes sense.

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By *onicZMan
over a year ago

Nottinghamshire

Some slippers and a doldo.

If they don't like the slippers, they can go fuck themselves.

...

On a serious note though, it can be difficult even if buying vouchers as places close down entirely or close certain stores meaning it ends up being an effort to travel so far. So if going the voucher route, as someone else has suggested, it's probably best to get one of those reloadable master cards that can be used anywhere, even online.

Perhaps speak to mutual friends if at all possible? Gift cards and cash should really be a last resort unless they specifically ask for them.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"What do you give someone as a present when you don't know what to get them?"

Money or gift vouchers...They can then get whatever suits them or what they want to

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"Some slippers and a doldo.

If they don't like the slippers, they can go fuck themselves.

...

On a serious note though, it can be difficult even if buying vouchers as places close down entirely or close certain stores meaning it ends up being an effort to travel so far. So if going the voucher route, as someone else has suggested, it's probably best to get one of those reloadable master cards that can be used anywhere, even online.

Perhaps speak to mutual friends if at all possible? Gift cards and cash should really be a last resort unless they specifically ask for them. "

What's a doldo

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"What do you give someone as a present when you don't know what to get them?

A plot... Everyone will need one "

As in ..a plot ...or put them in a movie or TV programme script

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By *emorefridaCouple
over a year ago

La la land

If you live close enough take them out for a meal or something. Me and my sister do this for our Mam. We've been to things from quilting museums to watching showaddywaddy.

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By *ophieslutTV/TS
over a year ago

Central

Probably a plant

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By *rHotNottsMan
over a year ago

Dubai & Nottingham


"What do you give someone as a present when you don't know what to get them?"

If I don’t know them enough to know, I’d just send a card. Save all my mental energy on gifts for the ones who matter

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By *rHotNottsMan
over a year ago

Dubai & Nottingham


"Nothing.

If you are two much grief to buy for, I just don’t bother, if I get questioned as to why I didn’t get someone something I just tell ‘em you’re too much of a pain in the ass to buy for. "

I kind of agree but not in a negative way. Putting money in a card is like saying I dint know you enough to think about what you might like but I feel a duty to remember your birthday. If I ever got money for a gift , unless I’d asked for money , Id give it back and say dont bother again , we don’t know each other !

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By *arkus1812Man
over a year ago

Lifes departure lounge NN9 Northamptonshire East not West MidlandsMidlands


"I have it sussed when it comes to Daugher and hubby and thee grandkids and close friends.

However my Sister is a difficult one, widowed about a year ago she has everything, Money,Houses, Cars and a well stocked wine cellar.

Guess Flowers are my only option

You could make her some of your cakes "

Thank's for the inspiration, could make up a Hamper with my home made jams and marmalades as well as some cakes and pastries.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I'm one of these difficult people. I tell people to not bother, or get me something small, or just another bottle of rum

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"I think sometimes we all try too hard and it's exhausting. Was it BHS that used to have shelves of absolute tatt at Christmas time, specifically aimed at people trying to find something different? Marmite chocolate, grow your own bonsai tree...at least shower gel is actually useful

I could never fathom those sorts of gifts. It's why I worry about getting it right

I used to, then I realised that most people appreciate whatever you give them as long as some thought has gone in to it. Don't buy milk chocolate for a dark chocolate lover but do buy them some exquisite hand made, single origin chocolates. I also realised that the friend I had the most difficulty buying for was the one who had criticised gifts other people have her, that was a liberating moment

I think it's partly a me problem. Gifts are my love language and I want to get them right. This person is exceptionally difficult to buy for and not a friendship where I'd want to phone it in.

Do they want a gift?

All the suggestions on this thread I'd hate to receive. Chocs, hampers, toiletries. They'd all get re-gifted.

I ask people not to buy things because it's a waste of their money.

Is there something you'd really like? If I got you in secret Santa what would you like to unwrap? "

A small bottle of water.

Anything else would be pointless and I'd feel bad you wasted money.

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By *icecouple561Couple
Forum Mod

over a year ago

East Sussex


"I think sometimes we all try too hard and it's exhausting. Was it BHS that used to have shelves of absolute tatt at Christmas time, specifically aimed at people trying to find something different? Marmite chocolate, grow your own bonsai tree...at least shower gel is actually useful

I could never fathom those sorts of gifts. It's why I worry about getting it right

I used to, then I realised that most people appreciate whatever you give them as long as some thought has gone in to it. Don't buy milk chocolate for a dark chocolate lover but do buy them some exquisite hand made, single origin chocolates. I also realised that the friend I had the most difficulty buying for was the one who had criticised gifts other people have her, that was a liberating moment

I think it's partly a me problem. Gifts are my love language and I want to get them right. This person is exceptionally difficult to buy for and not a friendship where I'd want to phone it in.

Do they want a gift?

All the suggestions on this thread I'd hate to receive. Chocs, hampers, toiletries. They'd all get re-gifted.

I ask people not to buy things because it's a waste of their money.

Is there something you'd really like? If I got you in secret Santa what would you like to unwrap?

A small bottle of water.

Anything else would be pointless and I'd feel bad you wasted money. "

Deal!

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