CNN.com did a feature over the holidays, listing 10 gadget gifts under $500. I’m all for sharing ideas, but it does seem a little weak somehow, playing let’s-drop-the-name with toys for the holidays.
The only thing worse than getting a toy you dislike, is getting a toy you’d love, if only it came with the right stuff. Getting someone an iPod? Get them some headphones too, because the ones from Apple just don’t cut it, nothing said of the worry over getting mugged because of your white earbuds. Maybe a good case would be useful as well, considering how fragile these things have proven to be.
Surprising someone with a computer? How about a good laptop bag, or a really killer mouse. Something, anything to put you, as the gift-giver over the top.
I know, it sounds like a bit of a sell-out – trust me, though, and think of the last time you found out someone returned a gift you got them? It doesn’t matter the reason, it’s not the best feeling in the world. Just like when you buy something for yourself, it’s worth putting the effort into your gifts so that the people on the receiving end get things they’ll actually enjoy.
Incidentally, I’m aware that “gift giving season” is still four plus months away, but it’s worth noting that a lot of the best gifters begin shopping nearly six months ahead of the event itself. How do you stand up against the brilliant gifters in your life?