What would you consider proper etiquette to giving gifts for Secret Santa?
I think proper etiquette would include making sure that the gift is appropriate for all potential receipients. At a party this year, my friends and I (all women) did a gift exchange where you can steal a gift one time, then that gift is off limits. It was a lot of fun and laughs. However, at the end of the night, my gift was a gift certificate to a tobacco shop/wine store. I don’t smoke or drink, and went to the store hoping there was something I could redeem the certificate for. The least expensive item I found was a set of shot glasses. Worse yet, I had to add money to the certificate to purchase them. It was very disappointing. For a Secret Santa exchange, I try to avoid gifts that could aggravate any conditions the receipient may have, such as alcoholism, diabetes, allergies, etc. Buying something of no use not only shortchanges the receiver, but also wastes the time and money spent selecting the gift.
Try to stick to a small amount; for even close workers, a few dollars is acceptable. The idea is to show that you like and respect the person; a small gift is all that is required to demonstrate this. Anything more expensive is actually almost offensive, as it demonstrates too great an affection. If possible, try to find a gift that the person can use. If they do a lot of yard work, gloves or a trowel are definitely acceptable. Try to determine what needs they have, and buy the most appropriate gift that you can find that fits within those parameters. As the idea is to buy a small gift, this may not always be possible, but it will definitely be appreciated. It should be noted that food (especially candy) is also acceptable, as are small pieces of jewelry. A humorous gift is another possibility. If you can be ironic when you choose the gift, so much the better. Do try to keep it tasteful, however. Try at all costs to avoid gifts that are rude, intimate, or just tasteless. As the gift wi
