Regifting and other ways to stop the spend this Christmas – Diana Clement

Looking for present ideas this Christmas? Why not shop your own shelves at home? Photo / 123RF

Stop the spend. December is often the month in which we spend money like it’s confetti. At least, it can feel like that.

Some people will have budgeted for Christmas, bought their presents early, stocked up on food bit by bit as festive foods were on sale. Let’s face it, most mere mortals will be staring down the barrel of December 25, not quite organised. If you’re short of presents or other supplies, it’s time to get creative, rather than throw money at the problem.

When it comes to gifts, it’s not too late to go out and buy something. But why not shop your own shelves at home? Just put some thought into it before you wrap up that dreadful Secret Santa ornament from last year’s work party.

We had Christmas early this year because I’m going away, so I’ve already done a chunk of regifting. My son was delighted to receive my 30-year-old Macpac backpack (which he borrowed for travelling in Asia last year). Last year, my children received retro Starbucks mugs from their grandmother’s house that brought back fond memories of sneaky hot chocolates. For the record, they don’t just get regifted items. I’m not quite that mean.

You can throw in a dollop of humour when it comes to regifting. Why not give that item back to its original owner? “I’ve had two beautiful years of enjoying [enter item name here], and now it’s time for you to share the joy.” Or, “Oops, did you give me that in the first place?” might suffice. Seriously, with the rise in popularity of “thrifting”, AKA op-shopping, as well as sustainable giving, there are all manner of scripts you can use to tart up good old-fashioned regifting.

Are there books on your bookshelf that you’ve loved, but someone else could read? Why not share the joy? Since I started “Swedish Death Cleaning”, I’ve turned into a Philistine and rehomed most of my lifetime of books. Looking at my office shelves as I write this column, I see copies of Māori Made Easy workbooks by Scotty Morrison. Great books and something that would be loved by someone who wouldn’t care if they are new or used.

If you need more convincing on the regifting front, then think about all the stuff ruining our planet. Think of all the plastic washing up on beaches around the world.

I’ve been reading articles about regifting etiquette, and I have to say I don’t quite agree with some of it. Some examples are: only regift if the item is new (mate, this is 2024 and sustainability matters). Only regift if the item is in original packaging (nah). Don’t regift a hand-made gift (double nah. It’s best it’s loved). Avoid regifting in the same circle (be open and check with the original gifter).

But some rules are good. Don’t regift if there are notes or inscriptions on the item – unless you’re upfront about it. I regifted such a present once without realising there was an inscription. I was mortified. With regifted items, make the presentation extra-special. Also, do some research before regifting pounamu.

Some items that can be good to regift include: unopened gourmet foods that are still in date, unused toiletries, candles or perfumes – providing they’re not old and smell bad – loved books, new clothes, household items, and novelty gifts, providing the recipient would actually enjoy them.

Be careful with wedding gifts or anything you’d received from people who ask about it every time they see you. Most people realise there is a lifespan for gifts they have given, and over time you might move on and get a new dinner set, wine glasses, cushions, Swarovski crystal and so on.

Regifting is not the only way to stop the spend. If you still need to buy food, do a stock take regarding your supplies first. Do you really need more chocolates, or trimmings? Sometimes simple is best.

If it’s not too late, set up a no-gift agreement with friends, have a family Secret Santa for the adults, or set other rules, such as only regifted gifts.

DIY gifts are much appreciated by some people. For me, a good homemade biscotti beats yet another soap or candle, much as I love them. Some people also love receiving coupons for tasks. Babysitting? Car cleaning? Kitchen organisation? I couldn’t imagine anything better than someone offering to clean my windows.