Straight answers to the awkward gift questions — what to get someone who wants nothing, a coworker you barely know, and other hard cases.
Sometimes they mean it exactly, and sometimes they mean something more specific. How to tell the difference, and what fits each.
Secret Santa or a leaving gift for someone you’ve barely spoken to. How to choose something thoughtful without pretending to know them better than you do.
When someone already buys what they want, look for what they haven’t bought for themselves. Where to find it, and ideas that often fit.
Illness, grief, divorce, job loss. Help and gifts that tend to be welcome, and how to offer them without adding to someone’s load.
A small, specific gesture can reopen a friendship. How to choose one, what to say with it, and when to leave things be.
A small, thoughtful gift is plenty. What to bring when they’re hosting, what to do if you’re meeting somewhere else, and what to ask your partner first.
Their style isn’t yours. How to choose something they’ll love, rather than something you’d pick for yourself.
You don’t need to know what’s trending. Asking, cash with a note, and backing what they already enjoy go a long way.
Small, useful gifts that fit the limit and suit almost anyone, plus what to do when you barely know the person you drew.
Out of time? Things you can pick up or send today that still feel chosen, and how to make a gift card personal when it’s the best fit.
Start with what you can afford, then look at the relationship and what’s normal between you. Rough starting points for common relationships.
Listen for things they mention, notice what they use, and ask the people close to them. Quiet ways to find out, and when it’s better to just ask.
A quick, honest message and a small follow-up usually set it right. What to say, what to send, and how to keep it from happening again.
The baby usually gets plenty of gifts. Food, practical help, and something just for the parents tend to be welcome — plus what to check first.
First homes are often short on everyday basics. Practical gifts that get used, and a few touches that make the place feel like theirs.
A small, considered gift works better than a big gesture. How to choose one when you know less about their life than you used to.
Gifts that travel well, things you can share across the distance, and how to plan around shipping.
Your partner is your best guide. How to choose a thoughtful gift while you’re still getting to know her.
A milestone calls for something that marks the occasion. Experiences, keepsakes, and group gifts — and how to match the mood they want for the day.
Found out someone else is giving the same thing? How to sort it out before the day, and what to do if both have already been opened.