5 Rules of Gift Giving: When to Give a Gift

And shame on you if you don't!

1. Birthdays
Throughout your life you have one day every year that is centered around you! Just you! Waking up on your birthday morning to a celebration of another year of life that you have experienced is extraordinary. So, it's pretty reasonable to bank on a little extra love and kisses coming your way... and presents. Now that most people have a Facebook, there is no excuse for forgetting a birthday.

2. Anniversaries
OK, so maybe not weekly anniversaries or even monthly anniversaries, but you have to admit that the big ones in a relationship are worth acknowledging. If you don't do something special for your first 6-month or 1-year anniversary you might want to rethink. It doesn't have to be huge! Even a small gesture like making a special dinner and dessert or spending the night out acts as a gift to the both of you, making your anniversary that much more special.

3. Holidays
Whether it is a religious holiday or family/relationship-oriented (this includes Mother's and Father's Day!), holidays are a great way to show others our appreciation and feel fulfilled by sharing with our loved ones. Whether they celebrate the same holidays or not, these small gestures are what bring people closer together. You can go all out, as some do at Christmas, or keep it low-key. But it is important to acknowledge these little days throughout the year by giving to others.

4. Souvenirs From a Trip
Your sister goes to France and comes back with... nothing for you? You don't need to buy out the country but it is definitely a good idea to come home with a few little trinkets for some friends or family members. One of my friends and my older cousin often travel abroad; many times they have returned with jewelry and pottery that has indigenous stones and designs. Bringing back little items for your loved ones allows them to live vicariously through you in your travels across the country or around the world.

5. Just Because
Doesn't it make you feel special to get a little box or sparkly bag when you aren't expecting it? I know I do! Along with the spirit of giving, a surprise gift is the most unexpected and sometimes the most exciting. These just-because gifts remind your loved ones that you're thinking about them and want to acknowledge it, even when there isn't a birthday or holiday nearby.