Archive for the ‘Gift Giving’ Category

How to Give a Wedding Gift

Thursday, July 7th, 2011

By Gretchen Ditto, Image & Personal Branding Advisor

$6.9 Billion will be spent on wedding gifts this year, according to The Wedding Report! Wowzers! With that much money spent, there have to be rules…

Ditto & Co’s Wedding Gift Guidelines

  1. Always try to get the couple something off the registry or give good, ol’ cash-o-la.  Unless, of course, you know the bride and groom well and you’re known to give them something special for their wedding that they are expecting. If this isn’t the case, stick to the registry.
  2. You have up to a year after the wedding to give the newlyweds your gift, but the most ideal time to gift is just before, during, or after the wedding. Oh no! I just realized I may have forgotten to give someone their gift… better late than never!
  3. As a recent bride, I never the extra work required to haul gifts around— I’ve vowed to mail all gifts from now on. No more lugging them into the reception.
  4. There’s no such thing as an inappropriate amount of money. The fact that you gave it will suffice (as mom used to say, it’s the thought that counts!) Don’t go broke, but don’t go cheap either.
  5. Don’t inquire about your gift afterwards.
  6. Include a gift receipt.
  7. Don’t hesitate to go in on a big gift with a group of friends or others—it’s these larger purchases that make a huge difference to a new couple.
  8. Send a gift even if you don’t attend the wedding.

Keep these easy-as-wedding-cake pointers top of mind and you’ll be sure to please the bride and groom without the hindrance of heavy lifting, duplicate presents, or awkward moments.

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Dads & Grads: Gifts

Thursday, June 9th, 2011

By Gretchen Ditto, Image & Personal Branding Advisor

Graduation parties, barbeques, and father outings aplenty; June has arrived once again! The beginning of summer always seems to find a way to get a little hectic. Cut time, guesswork, and stress out of the month with the help of Ditto & Co’s guide to shopping for grads and dads.

For Dads:

  • J. Hilburn custom-fit shirt: Every man will appreciate and love the gift of a beautifully constructed and tailored shirt for work or play. Call me today or visit dittoandco.com to learn how it works and see the difference for yourself!
  • Something from Surly Brewing Co: locally brewed and appreciated by every dude. What more is there to say?
  • Anything hobby-related (golf, tennis, running, reading, woodworking)
  • Tickets to a ball game – go Twins!
  • Custom designed golf shoes (YES, these actually exist, and they’re awesome!)
  • Something from their alma mater: let them relive the glory without the Animal House chaos
  • A Garmin GPS watch to track their workout (and look cool)
  • A gift certificate to Manny’s for a delicious steak dinner

For Grads:

  • A quality briefcase or work tote to replace the worn out backpack
  • A gift certificate to Kitchenwerks: give your grad the gift of knowing how to shop, cook, and eat healthy
  • A custom-fit shirt from J. Hilburn: It’s time to toss the tennies and tees and shift into professional gear
  • Money (graduates = broke!)
  • A gift certificate to Ditto & Co to define your grads style (plus a $1000 shopping spree—a grad can dream, right?)
  • A nice pair of dress shoes
  • A gift certificate to the local drycleaner: keep your grad looking fresh, pressed, and ready to impress

Once you’ve done the shopping the hardest part is over—now on to the burgers and badminton (it’s your serve)!

Now it’s your turn to share: Have a great gift idea for the grad or dad in your life? Do tell!

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Mother’s Day Gift Buying Guide For the Spouse/Significant Other

Monday, April 25th, 2011

By Gretchen Ditto, Image & Personal Branding Advisor

Yes, it’s Mother’s Day season once again, which means that it’s time to make sure you’ve taken care of all the moms in your world. I’m writing this article for the spouse/significant other who may be torn about what to get their special someone. Why? Well, you may be thinking, ‘she (aka wife) isn’t my mother – so I’m off the hook – I’ll leave it up to the kids.’

While this reasoning may be common, you may want to think again. This, in many circumstances, is the woman who gave birth to your children! She experienced things before, during, and after pregnancy that you will, thankfully, never have to endure! Does she deserve a lovely gift that shows how much you appreciate and care for her? Of course she does! Now get out there and find her something! If you’re at a loss, here’s the good news: I’ve got some ideas for you.

TO GIVE:

  • All gifts should be accompanied by a nice card and flowers (these are not the gift itself)
  • Give her the gift of time, such as a gift certificate for a virtual assistant or professional organizer to calm the children’s chaos. (See below for options)
  • An offer to watch the kids (for a day, a night, a weekend, or all of the above! Although, if you’re doing it right, you should be doing this already)
  • Gift certificates to places she goes with her girlfriends
  • A a reservation at a spa
  • Clean the house for her (extra points if you do it in your boxers)
  • Make sure that on Mother’s day she is pampered -  no housework, no dishes, just fun and relaxation
  • Jewelry is always nice – if she wears it. Avoid the cheap stuff.
  • And of course, a gift certificate to Ditto & Co! A Tools For Transforming package would give her the never-ending gift of knowing her best colors and best fit for clothing. It’s the ultimate gift that will save her time and money, not to mention have her looking fantastic! Ok, the shameless self promotion is done now.

or

NOT TO GIVE:

  • Appliances (unless she asks you a million times)
  • Something that focuses on the children more than her (such as a trip to the zoo!)
  • Anything that you secretly want (you know she’ll be on to you!)

Helpful Resources:

http://www.time-creators.com/

http://www.bumblebeepa.com/

http://www.sendinmaureen.com/

http://www.vastbusinesssolutions.com/

Now it’s your turn to share: What’s the most original Mother’s Day gift you’ve ever received or given?

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Don’t Panic: Last Minute Gift Ideas

Wednesday, December 15th, 2010

Gifts that are sure to please and arrive on time:

Fine Stationary: Who doesn’t love something delicate and distinct with their name on it? Choose from a 85 different paper brands, and then personalize with the name of your recipient. Go online to place an order that can be shipped in two days to the loved ones of your choosing.

Get Connected:
www.finestationary.com
888.808.3463

Harry & David: Because fruit will never go out of style. Have your delicious fruits, cheeses, chocolates, wines, and more shipped overnight. Some holiday items can even be personalized. What’s more, valid through December 18th, Harry and David offers free delivery on every order of $50 or more.

Get Connected:
www.harryanddavid.com
877.322.1200

1-800-FLOWERS: Has a person ever not smiled when they receive flowers?
Offering over 80 floral creations and packages that can be shipped to everyone on your list same day, 1-800-flowers also offers $15 off your purchase when you send two gifts. (Use the promotional code: TWO4HOLIDAY)

Get Connected:
ww30.1800flowers.com
800.356.9377

SpaFinder Gift Certificates: They’re the perfect gift for every busy multi-tasker on your list and accepted at over 5,000 spas around the globe. Certificates can be shipped in a beautifully wrapped gift box via snail mail, printed at home, or sent via email to your lucky friends and family.

Get Connected:
www.spafinder.com
212.924.6800

Uncommon Goods: Look here for unique and awesome gifts for kids, new parents, the men and women in your life, and everyone else on your list. For kids, choose from pocket microscopes, building toys, make-your-own-candy sets, and more (all at very reasonable prices). Your orders can be shipped overnight, and you can even order handmade and recycled goodies for the eco-aware people on your list.

Get Connected:
www.uncommongoods.com
888.365.0056

The gift of helping others: Donate to your giftee’s favorite local charity on their behalf. This gift is guaranteed to put a smile on more than just the recipient’s face.

The gift of guidance and a  helping hand: Let Ditto & Co. help someone special on your list by simplifying and streamlining their life. Give one of our Ditto & Co. gift certificates, and you’ll be giving the gift that keeps on giving!

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Top Five Tips for Personal Gift Giving

Tuesday, December 14th, 2010

It’s easy to start thinking of the gift-giving season as a stressful burden, instead of the generous and joyful event that it really is. So, first and foremost, it’s important to remind yourself that giving a gift is an opportunity to tell the people in your life what it is that you appreciate most about them. Have fun with your gifts, and enjoy the great feeling you get from giving to others!

Here are a few pointers for a stess-free gifting season:

1.     Set a budget. Decide upon the amount of money you can afford to spend this holiday season, make a list of people you want to give to, and then allot the money appropriately. Remember: it is not essential that the gift you’re giving is the same monetary value as the gift you received. Always give the nicest thing you can give within your means.

2.     Do your research. Keep in mind your recipient’s taste and ask others for advice and direction. When in doubt, gift cards are always acceptable, especially in these trying economic times. Never give an acquaintance something with romantic undertones, such as lingerie, perfume, or alcohol. *Always include a gift receipt.

3.     Think outside the aisle. Oftentimes the gift of an experience together can resonate much more than a purchased gift. Consider buying theater or concert tickets, plan a trip or dinner together, or even offer your recipient a heartfelt favor such as three nights of babysitting.

4.     Wrapping paper is not an afterthought. The attention you pay to the presentation of your gift says a lot about the effort and value you put into it. By taking the time to make your gift look unique and well wrapped, you’re showing the recipient that you think they are unique and special. Raise the bar by using unusual or handmade wrapping supplies.

5.     Receive gifts with gratitude. You don’t always have to reciprocate a gift, but never give excuses and always send a thank you note, whether it’s via email, text (for younger generations), or the beloved snail-mail. Never re-gift.

With just a little extra effort and preparation you’ll be able to please even the most particular loved ones, and benefit from the good feelings you get in return!

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Top Five Tips for Business Gift Giving

Tuesday, December 14th, 2010

If you’re like me, you’ve probably experienced a moment of panic concerning how exactly to go about tackling the task of business gift giving during the holidays. It’s not always easy keeping track of the people who’ve made a difference in your career, and even harder solving the riddle of what to get them. So, to lighten your proverbial load during this busy season, here’s a quick primer on business gift giving:

1.   Make a list, and make it early. Stow it somewhere that’s easily accessible, like your planner, so that you aren’t left wracking your brain for forgotten clients and coworkers in a busy aisle at Macy’s. Consider dividing your list into two groups: one for those that have played a significant role in your business and another for those less crucial but still important.

2.   Do your research! Make sure to check with the firms of your recipients to make sure that the companies don’t have a “No Gift” policy. Also, find out whether the person has religious or personal beliefs that prohibit them from accepting a holiday gift, and inquire about their taste and possible allergies.

3.   Keep it personal. When choosing your gift, keep your recipient in mind. Adding his or her initials/name to a gift is an easy way to make something thoughtful. Always send a personalized note with, at minimum, a hand-written signature that tells your clients and colleagues exactly what you appreciate and what you’re celebrating. However, be sure to stick with nondenominational holiday greetings.

4.   Let your relationship dictate your gift. If your relationship with a client is more formal, your gift should be. If your relationship is more casual, it’s ok to give a more casual gift. Note to bosses: If you receive a gift from an employee, reciprocation is a must. If you’re an employee who receives a gift from a boss, it is not obligatory to return the courtesy.

5.   When in doubt, send food. You can never go wrong with food gifts, especially if you do your research and put a little extra time into gathering your products. Don’t get stuck in the chocolate and cake category. Instead, personalize your food gift by sending something produced locally—such as a cheese or wild rice—that will make your present stand out.

*Always acknowledge that you’ve received a gift by sending a thank you note or email. Extra points for personalizing it with a hand-written letter!

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