The Art of a Graceful Gift Exchange

Christmas is a holiday of giving, and of course, receiving. Now what happens when you receive something that you completely abhor, and the friend/relative didn't include a gift receipt? Well surely some awkwardness will ensue, but that's to be expected.

In my case, I received a wool sporting sweater from REI.

Now I'm not saying that it's completely awful, I just knew I wouldn't ever wear because I'm not a huge fan of zippers or sports. It just didn't fit my personality. So, in my opinion, the only option was to man up and ask for the receipt.

Don't feel bad for hating the gift, however don't openly hate it. Graciousness, especially at Christmas time, is a must. Showing disdain for a gift could hurt the giver's feelings and could lead to some awkwardness afterwards. However, if you did slip up, and Lord knows that all of us do sometimes, then be sure to apologize. After all, they had the sense to try to get you something in the first place!

The way I see it, each Christmas gift given or received is a place marker, so don't be ashamed to ask for the receipt! Either way the person will still have gotten you gift, whether it be the original product, store credit, or cash back. However, if you don't want to tell them the truth about as to why you're returning the said item (i.e. "It is absolutely awful and I hate it"), then be vague or even lie a little. You could say that it doesn't quite match your taste, it doesn't quite fit (in the case of clothing), or say you already own it. I'm not advocating lying, however if it spares a little hurt feelings, then I say go for it!