You’ve given, you’ve gotten. And now, with the presents all unwrapped comes the fun–the returns! I hope that you don’t have many, but, every year there seems to be some! (And I know a lot of people had a difficult year (my family included) and while I am so grateful for so much–if there are gift receipts for some of these experiences, I’d love to know!) So, how do you handle returns? Well, as a seasoned shopper I have some ideas –no matter if you’re the giver or the returner!
Don’t Take it Personal
So, you gave a gift that didn’t work out. Or you got a gift and worry about hurting the feelings of the gifter. Loves, I hope that the point of the gift was to show that you care. And I hope both parties remember: returns aren’t personal. Sizing, taste, need–all these can contribute to a gift needing to go back. There’s no need for hurt feelings, there’s no need for drama. My suggestion: if you’re the receiver handle the situation with grace, offer as much honesty as you can (although maybe skip the part where you hate it), and keep your sense of humor. The gifter–handle it with as much grace as you can, try to learn something about the receiver, and keep your sense of humor. Now, we all know that there are gifts that can’t be returned. If you’re in that sitation: again grace, fake liking it as much as you can, say thank you, and get over it!
Make the Return Time Spent Together
I love online shopping –and online returns are easy too! However, if you have to return something, and you’re with the purchaser, this a great opportunity to go shopping together. Yes, it may be crowded, but you’ll be together, and that may be better than any gift.
Keep Your Sense of Humor
I repeat this, because it’s that important. Gifts can be hard, and it can be a pain to return them. However, there’s wine and new shoes, and time with loved ones. Returns don’t sound too bad, do they?
XO RA
