Putting Your Signature on the Gifts That You Give

Today, the essence of gift-giving is slowly losing its meaning. With the presence of wrapped gift sets and a multitude of generic items, people rarely give so much thought on this gesture. As long as they can give something, then that's already enough. As long as they go to a party with a box tied with a pretty ribbon on their hands, that's enough.
But this should not be the case. You should not give gifts simply for the sake of giving. Remember, the tradition of gift-giving stems from an expression of kindness and sentiment. Thus, it is just respectful of you to carry on with this tradition in the same manner.
Here are few tips in making the gesture of gift-giving more meaningful:
1. Personalize them.
Nothing beats a personalized gift. An ordinary Parker pen would have more significance if you have your recipient's name etched on the pen. A cheap mug would gain tons of value if you choose the one that has your friend's favorite cartoon character or team on it.
Indeed, by giving out personalized gifts, you are showing how special your recipient is to you. You are showing how significant he / she is in your life. You are demonstrating how your recipient's presence in your life is appreciated.
By giving out personalized items, you are making sure that once your friend looks at your gift, she would not only remember you; but she will also remember the wonderful feelings associated with that gift. Indeed, this is a great way of putting your "signature" on your gifts.
2. Exert an effort.
"It's the thought that counts" is a cliche'. Still, the fact remains that indeed, it's the thought that counts. Sometimes, more important than the gift itself is the effort exerted in looking for that present. Sometimes, your recipient acknowledges your effort in finding out what you want to receive.
So the next time that you want to give a gift, add a dash of effort. This completes this kind gesture.
3. Don't take out the element of surprise.
Sometimes, people can't contain themselves and they simply tell their recipients that a gift is coming their way. Don't be one of these people. Keep the gesture a surprise. It adds a whole new dimension to a somewhat expected action.
For instance, if you want to ask your girlfriend what kind of gift she wants to receive, do this discreetly. Don't let your words give you away. In fact, you can ask someone else to take charge of this task. This leaves you out of the picture. Come gift-giving time, then you'd be in for smiles and kisses from the love of your life.
The act of giving gifts is a special one. Mind you, people don't just gift gifts to anyone. You give gifts only to people who are special to you. You surprise them with a bouquet of flowers only if they have touched your heart in a special way.
Therefore, to make this kind gesture more meaningful, follow the suggestions stated above.