Buying a gift for your partner is one of the most important chores you’ll carry out this Christmas. Who knows what chaos could ensue if you choose the wrong thing? Tears could be in store, arguments and maybe even a messy break-up. Here are five things to avoid buying at all costs, no matter if you’ve just met on free dating websites or are celebrating your 10th anniversary.
Something for you…
Don’t pick anything that you secretly want for yourself. This could be a DVD, a CD, a cake or bottle of wine, which could be sneakily shared between the two of you. Or it could just be something grossly inappropriate for your partner. When choosing their gift, try to think from their perspective instead of your own. You could even choose items based on the styles they already own to stay safe.
Something last minute…
Don’t leave the shop till the last minute. A hastily bought piece of jewellery with the label still on will not be appreciated. The perfect gift needs time, planning and careful consideration. You wouldn’t want to give the impression that you don’t care very much about this particular present.
Some kind of hint…
Don’t give your partner a present that’s clearly a hint. Piano music because you want them to start playing again, weights because you want them to tone-up or cooking books because you want them to improve their skills in the kitchen will not be appreciated. They will feel obliged to use the present even if it’s against their will, possibly causing ill feeling between the two of you and ultimately offending your partner.
Something uncertain…
Make sure you’ve got all the facts straight before buying a present. If you’re looking for clothes or shoes, get the sizes right. If you’re booking a theatre trip or music gig, make sure everyone’s free on that date. Even if it ruins the surprise it’s better to get the details right.
Something sexual…
You never know when and where your partner might open a present. So whatever you do, don’t make it overtly sexual. This is a bad idea in any case, as it’s rather a cheap thing to give as a gift and will imply that your relationship is only about one thing. It’s okay to give a sexual present as a joke, but make sure it’s accompanied by something thoughtful and serious.
Whether you met through dating agencies or at university, don’t mess up this year’s Christmas present. Avoid all of the above and you should be on the right track.