As much as Christmas is mostly fun and games, it can also be quite complicated. Between the gift giving, party dressing and house decorating, there are a whole host of things we have to consider during the festive period. Which is where an etiquette expert comes in.
In partnership with TK Maxx, etiquette expert Jo Bryant revealed her tips for helping Christmas gifting to run smoothly. As with anything (from the items that make you 'middle class' to the 'posh' words in your vocabulary), it's worth taking the advice with a pinch of salt. Christmas isn't a 'one size fits all', and what works for one family or group of people might not work for another. But, in case you're interested, here are three things you should never do at Christmas, according to an etiquette expert.
Don't resell unwanted Christmas gifts
"It is generally considered bad taste to sell on a gift. Careful re-gifting is preferable or, better still, give the unwanted item to charity so the profit goes to a good cause.
If you do want to regift something, think carefully before you do it and run through some essential checks: the recipient must have no connection to the original giver, the item must be in shop-new pristine condition and, lastly, the gift should be suitable for the recipient rather than just re-gifting something you don’t want that will just ‘do’."
Don't have a gift list, unless it's the done thing
"Gift wish lists are a good idea for children and younger people when they can be genuinely useful pointers to what someone might like, and avoid duplication of gifts.
"For adults, they should be approached with caution and depend on the gift-giving culture within a family or group. As a general rule, it may seem presumptuous to create a gift wish list and circulate it unprompted if no one has actually asked you what you want. Some heavy hint-dropping can be a more tactful and better-received approach unless a shared list is the norm for everyone involved.'
Don't tell the person you're receiving a gift from if you don't like it
"Even if you are given a present you dislike, you must act with gratitude and delight! It is important to remember that the gift-giver has taken time to think about the gift for you, spent money on you and carefully wrapped and given/posted it to you, all with the very best of intentions. The very least you can do is mind your manners and mask your disappointment…
"Whether you love or hate the gift you have received, always take the time to say thank you properly, preferably by putting pen to paper within a few days of receiving the gift."
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12 of the best Autumnal wreaths for getting in the Christmas spirit early
John Lewis & Partners Renaissance Wreath, Champagne
In golden and brown hues, this understated wreath aims to bring woodland vibes to your home this Christmas, made with natural looking foliage and actual pine cones.
Gisela Graham Palm Leaf Wreath - Gold
Is there ever a thing as too much gold at Christmas? No. The answer is no. This art-deco style palm leaf wreath is perfect for those committing to a theme.
24 inch Lit Snowy Berry Eucalyptus Wreath
Adorned with festive foliage including pinecones, berries and feathers, this Christmas wreath has been finished with a golden dusting that is perfect for adding that little sommin' sommin' to your decorations.
AMARA Glitter Iced Twig Wreath - White
Shun traditional nature inspired Christmas wreaths for this gold creation, made with rattan twig branches sprayed gold. This would go SO well with a metallic theme.
A by AMARA Christmas Pinecone & Berry Deco Wreath
Amara have out done themselves with their Christmas offerings this year, like this berry themed wreath, which comes with pinecones too.
John Lewis & Partners Impressionism LED Lit Wreath
Sometimes classic is best. This fern wreath with some silver details can be used to hang on a door or as the base of a scented candle to make a stunning centre piece.
Decorative Red Berry Christmas Wreath
Go for a super paired back vibe with this Wayfair offering - a unique creation made with red berries. Sometimes simple is best!
Christmas 60cm Lighted Wreath
If you want to go super traditional with your Christmas door wreath, this one features real noble fir foliage combined with holly sprigs, pinecones, berry clusters and a big red bow.
The Seasonal Aisle 40.64cm Berry and Grapevine Wreath
Go for a natural theme with this garden retreat wreath, which features a circular twig design adorned with ferns, pine cones and red berries.
Heart 30cm Christmas Wreath
This heart shaped wreath is perfect for those shunning tradition in favour of their own theme. Made with pine cones and star decorations, this love heart wreath is a show stopper.
SHOP NOW 24 inch Snowy Trees & Houses Wreath
Covered in miniature houses and Christmas trees, this wreath is so cute!
We all know White Company do Christmas very, very well, and their wreath selection is no exception. This Scandi style wreath would look great on your door or over the mantlepiece.
