eBay Canada offers 're-gifting' tips

Did you get a "festive" cardigan for Christmas you'll never wear? Re-gifting is a common post-holiday tradition – and so eBay Canada has put together a fun list of re-gifting do's and don'ts, as well as offering customers five free listings during its National Re-Gifting Week, December 26th to 30th!

"There’s absolutely nothing wrong with re-gifting, as long as it’s done the right way," says shopping expert Cathie Mostowyk, the eBay Canada Style Squad budget and shopping expert. "Just because a gift isn't your style or taste doesn't mean it isn't perfect for someone else. Storing an unwanted gift at the back of your closet is just a waste – why not re-gift it and let someone else enjoy it?"

And so here are eBay Canada's re-gifting etiquette tips:

• Don't re-gift the re-gifter – Lots of people have horror stories of proudly presenting a gift they pulled from the back of the closet to a friend or family member, only to have them say "didn’t I give this to you?" Avoid embarrassment by writing the name of the giver on a sticky note and placing it on the gift itself.

• Make a list – If you received a number of gifts that just aren't your taste, make a note of a friend or family member who you know will love it. Or think about a special event that might be on the horizon, like a wedding or anniversary. If you’re confident the gift is on someone else’s wish list, you’ll be able to hand it over to someone who will really appreciate it.

• Don’t keep it in the family – If you received an unwanted gift from your cousin, don't re-gift it to her sister! Be discreet and only re-gift to someone who doesn’t come into regular contact with the original sender. Selling your item on eBay is a great way to avoid having to explain why your gift is suddenly hanging on someone else’s wall.

• Accept graciously – Sometimes you get a gift that you really dislike but it's from someone you see very often and don't want to offend. If that's the case, accept it graciously. If it's something wearable, like jewelry or a scarf, wear it once or twice in their presence so they can feel good about it. If it's something for the house, like a vase, keep it in the closet until you know the person will be visiting; then whip it out and give it pride of place. It's always best to avoid hurting someone's feelings.

• Donate it – Charities are often looking for special items. Instead of hiding unwanted gifts of clothing in the bottom drawer, donate them to a shelter. Or donate a quirky item to an organization's charity auction. Your re-gifting will make a difference to someone who really needs it.

• Sell it – Selling an unwanted gift is a win/win situation. You've passed it on to someone who really wants it, and you've experienced some joy from the gift itself (albeit in the form of cash!) This especially comes in handy in January when you’re reeling from your holiday credit card bill. Selling it online virtually guarantees finding someone who will love your item and pay top dollar for it, so take advantage of your five free listings on eBay and start selling!
• Enjoy the spirit of the season! – This time of the year is about family, togetherness and sharing, so appreciate the thought behind your gift, no matter how much or how little it appeals to you – and remember to send a note of thanks!

If you enjoyed this post, why not subscribe to this blog via RSS? It's easy and you'll never miss another sync article.