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For many of us, the holiday season can not be the most joyful time of year, but instead the most stressful. A mile-long shopping list can put strain on both our personal time and our wallets. But gift giving really doesn't have to be as stressful as we make it out to be. Some basic gift giving etiquette can help to ease the stress and make the holidays easier for you this year.

One of the biggest misconceptions about holiday gift giving is that if someone gives you a gift, you must reciprocate. This can be an extremely awkward situation if someone unexpectedly gives you a wrapped box, and you have nothing for him or her. Don't worry, it is really okay if you have been surprised by someone's gesture. Just make sure to politely thank the person, and then send a hand written thank you card a couple days later. Don't say something to the effect of "I'll bring my gift for you tomorrow" because this is not only a transparent excuse, but it also makes it sound as though you are focusing on trumping the gift you have received. As long as you express your gratitude appropriately, it is okay for you to not reciprocate.

Another common misconception is that you must match the price mark that you expect someone to spend on you. For example, if your friend always treats you to an expensive gadget for Christmas, you may feel obligated to spend a lot of money on his or her gift. This is really not necessary. It is instead much more important for you to shop within your means. Set a holiday budget and stick to it. Nearly 100% of the time, a well thought out gift is one that means more than an expensive one, anyway. Plus, there are plenty of very nice presents for men and women that you can purchase without spending a lot of money.

If you find yourself with a super long shopping list this year, don't feel bad about paring it down a little bit. For example, you do not necessarily need to bring a gift for your boss, unless you have a close personal relationship with him or her. Otherwise, it might actually look like you are trying to kiss up. And while it was previously thought that gift cards were an impersonal holiday present, times have changed and gift cards are generally regarded as appropriate now.

If you are not sure about what to give a friend or acquaintance, steer clear of lingerie or undergarments, alcohol, and perfume or cologne. Undergarments are only appropriate for someone with whom you have an intimate relationship, and perfume or cologne as a gift has a romantic undertone. If you do not know someone very well, you may not know whether he or she objects to the consumption of alcohol.

When traveling for the holidays or attending parties, don't forget that it is a nice gesture to bring a small host/hostess gift. It does not have to be anything lavish, but a gift for hosting is a nice way to show that you appreciate all of his or her time and effort. If you are going to be staying as a guest at someone's house for a couple nights, try a small gift such as a loaf of cranberry bread from a nearby bakery wrapped in a nice kitchen towel. Or a bottle of sparkling French lemonade with an interesting bottle opener. Soaps and fragranced candles are also nice gifts that anyone can make use of. For a holiday party, you can't go wrong with a box of nice chocolates.

Remember, this holiday season, don't let shopping for gifts stress you out. Keep these etiquette tips in mind to make it an enjoyable and easy process.

Author: Michael Taylor is a Marketing Manager at TIE SNUG. TIE SNUG eliminates continuous adjusting and makes wearing a tie more comfortable. Knowing the current tie styles is an important step when deciding what to wear to an interview. Feel confident that you look your best with TIE SNUG. For more information or to make a purchase, please visit http://www.tiesnug.com.

By Michael D Taylor
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