Practical Christmas Gifts for Him or Her

When it’s Acceptable to Buy Holiday Presents People Can Actually Use

Dec 2, 2008

Though most people don't want blenders or vacuum cleaners for Christmas, there are times that practical holiday gifts for him or her are welcome! Here's when to buy them.

Practical Christmas gifts for him include house cleaning services, gift cards for Home Depot or Canadian Tire, or bbq accessories for summertime grilling. Practical holiday presents for her include gift cards at any major department store, kitchen accessories if she loves cooking, or bath gift sets.

However, it’s not always acceptable to buy practical Christmas gifts for someone you love romantically – it can actually be offensive! Not every women will enjoy receiving a mixer or a vacuum cleaner as a holiday present…and not every man is thrilled about bbq accessories for the summer. Here’s when practical Christmas gifts will thrill him or her!

When it’s Acceptable to Buy Practical Christmas Gifts for Him or Her

When she asks for it. It’s acceptable to buy a practical Christmas gift for her if she actually requests it. For instance, her old popcorn maker may be on its last legs – and if she specifically asks you to buy a new one as a holiday gift, then she’ll love it!

When it’s one of many. It’s acceptable to buy a practical holiday present if it’s not the only Christmas gift for him. That is, it’s fine to slip in a package of underwear or socks if you’re also giving him tickets to a football game or concert. Practical Christmas gifts are great, as long as they're accompanied by fun, thoughtful holiday presents.

When he can’t afford it himself. A practical Christmas gift isn’t just acceptable when your loved one is struggling financially – it could actually be cherished. Consider giving a gift card for a grocery store, gas station, or auto mechanic shop. Depending on your relationship and his personality, it may be the perfect gift (though some people may be offended at this, so this holiday present should be thought through carefully!).

When she’s sick or stressed. It’s acceptable to give a practical holiday present that lifts a heavy load! For instance, if your loved one is recovering from an illness or too busy to do the housework, giving a gift certificate to a home cleaning service is a thoughtful way to say “Merry Christmas.”

When he really wants it. A practical Christmas gift for him is acceptable when he really wants it. For instance, a new chainsaw may not seem like an idea holiday present – but if he’s been needing and wanting one for years, then it’s the ideal Christmas gift for him! Practical holiday gifts go over well when your loved one seriously wants the item.

The copyright of the article Practical Christmas Gifts for Him or Her in Psychology is owned by Laurie Pawlik-Kienlen. Permission to republish Practical Christmas Gifts for Him or Her in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.