THE ART OF RE-GIFTING

AT a recent Koch family Sunday lunch there was an enthusiastic discussion surrounding re-gifting presents … whether it be Christmas, birthday or anniversary.

If you can’t get it back to the store, putting it in the cupboard and waiting till you get the opportunity to re-gift is becoming more common. There’s nothing wrong with re-gifting, even if it gets a bad wrap.

To make you feel better, research shows around 40 per cent of gifts are re-gifted. Whether you own up or pretend you bought the item is up to you.

These days lots of people are making re-gifting the rule at their Christmas parties. It’s a great idea for office, club or neighbourhood parties, or even with family.

Treat it like a Secret Santa where everyone has to bring a present to re-gift. Think about how much money it would save you.

And don’t stop at the presents. What about re-gifting Christmas cards and wrapping paper. For years Libby has been cutting Christmas cards up to use as smaller tags on presents. Here are some regifting rules to remember:

● Make sure the present is in its original packaging and doesn’t look like it’s been opened

(or used).

● Always remember who gave you what — there’s nothing worse than re-gifting something to the person who gave it to you.

● Don’t re-gift randomly — think about what you’re giving to who, and whether it is an appropriate gift for them.