Ask Miss Smartypants - December 28, 2009 |
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| Written by Miss Smartypants |
| Monday, 28 December 2009 00:00 |
Art: Nina Charest
Dear Miss Smartypants, Alright, give it: what's the rule on re-gifting? There Are Only So Many Crock Pots I Can Use Dear Crock, Yes, it's okay to re-gift. Some etiquette guides would tell you that it's the height of poor taste, but there are only so many crock pots you can use, to say nothing of clothes you know you'll never wear, books you'll never read, and that weird macramé art from Aunt Sally. That said, make re-gifting your last resort. First, go to whichever friend/relative you are most comfortable with, and explain that you actually received a crock pot from your uncle Fred. At that point, the double-gifter may suggest a course of action. If not, ask if s/he would consider returning the gift for something else, for store credit, or for a companion gift like a crock pot cookbook. Second, if none of that works out, donate either to a charity or to someone you know. Don't pretend that the crock pot is a kind, spontaneous gift. Just admit that you got two, and would your friend like the other one? Third, re-gift. The trick to re-gifting is to avoid getting caught, so really think about the possibility that the original gifter will find out that you re-gifted. For example, my family lives about 1000 kilometres away, so it's easier for me to give away their items here without them ever knowing. As for the things you know you'll never use/want that you always seem to get from well-meaning grandparents: donate or re-gift if you think someone else will get use out of whatever it is. Fianlly, consider picking a time during the year to tell that person that you're really not into collectible salt and pepper shakers or even that seeing them over the holidays is gift enough. Slow cooked, Miss Smartypants Send your etiquette questions to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
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