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Four Tips for Stress-Free
Gift Giving
Although gift-related stress t ends to peak during the holiday season, it can come at any time. These easy remedies will keep stress at bay — and keep family and friends delighted year-round.
1.Maintain a gift closet
A stash of all-occasion gifts is the surest cure for last-minute panicking over a hostess gift or birthday present. Stock your gift closet with boxes of beautiful note cards, scented soaps and lotions, and fragrant candles.
2.Buy it when you see it
Retailers have to turn over their stock frequently to keep consumers coming back for more. If you see the perfect holiday gift in April, buy it — especially if it’s on sale. Keep it in your gift closet.
3.Wrapping matters
Gift giving is an affectionate social ritual and wrapping is an integral part of the tradition. Some stylish gift-givers use a distinctive color scheme (cream-colored paper with chocolate satin ribbon, for example) for every gift; others enjoy changing wrappings with the seasons. Either way, ensure you have enough on hand. You don’t want to discover that you’ve run out when you’re already 10 minutes late for a birthday celebration.
4.Give within your means
Gift giving is about thoughtfulness and generosity. It is not a competitive sport. Gifts you can afford will please your loved ones now while ensuring you don’t have to panic about your finances later.
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