How much to spend, who to give to at work, what to do when someone surprises you with a gift, and the small manners that make a gift land well.
Gift etiquette
The best creative ways to give money as a gift tie the cash to a purpose, a note or a surprise: a puzzle box, a cash lei, a book with bills folded inside or a card that names what it is for. Add a handwritten message so money feels personal, not careless.
Gift etiquette
A holiday tipping guide starts with one idea: most tips run up to the cost of one service or one week's pay. The Emily Post Institute suggests up to one haircut for a barber, up to a week's pay for a housekeeper, and $20 to $80 for a superintendent. Mail carriers cannot accept cash.
Gift etiquette
How much to give a teacher for Christmas: we suggest a gift worth $10 to $25, or $5 to $10 toward a class group gift. The Emily Post Institute says cash is not appropriate for salaried teachers. For daycare staff, it lists $25 to $70 each. Check your school's gift policy first.
Gift etiquette
Should you give your boss a Christmas gift? Generally no, not alone. The Emily Post Institute says a solo gift can look like an attempt to win favor, while a pooled gift from the team that isn't too expensive or personal is fine. A sincere card is always safe.
Gift etiquette
For most coworkers, spend $10 to $25. Stay near $10 when you give to a whole team, go up to about $50 only for a close work friend, and match the cap in any gift exchange. For your boss, chip in on a group gift instead, and federal employees have a $10 limit for gifts to supervisors.
Gift etiquette
How much to spend on a wedding gift depends on your relationship and budget. The Knot suggests $50 to $100 for a coworker or acquaintance, $100 to $175 for friends, and $100 to $200 or more when attending as a couple. Spend what you can comfortably afford, and send a gift even if you cannot attend.
Gift etiquette
To write a thank-you note for a gift, use four short sentences: thank them for the specific gift, say how you will use it or what it means, add a look ahead, and close with thanks. The Emily Post Institute says to write as soon as possible, and handwritten is best for gifts.
Gift etiquette
Regifting is not rude when you choose well and do it with care. The Emily Post Institute says the simplest approach is to tell the recipient it is a regift. If you stay quiet, check the packaging, avoid personalized items, and be sure no one would be hurt. Always re-wrap and write a new card.
Mom, dad, partners, grandparents, kids, teens and coworkers
Christmas, Hanukkah, Valentine's Day, anniversaries and gift swaps
Last-minute, hosts, hard-to-shop-for people and gift styles
Cooks, book lovers, gamers and tech fans
Small gifts under $10, $25 and $50