How to Handle Awkward Christmas Gift Moments

Описание: Watch more Christmas Gift Guide videos: http://www.howcast.com/videos/494428-...

The holidays can be a minefield when it comes to exchanging Christmas gifts. Here's how to finesse some of the season's most embarrassing situations.

Step 1: Deal with a cost disparity
Don't panic if you receive a Christmas gift that's far nicer than the one you gave. Tell them the gift they opened is just a token -- their "main" present hasn't arrived yet, or you're taking them to an upcoming event.

Step 2: Downplay a too-generous gift
Vice-versa, don't despair if you spend more. Just say the gift was a great deal to make the other person feel at ease.

Step 3: Cover up empty-handedness
Should you receive an unexpected gift, don't tell the giver that you left their gift at home, a ruse that fools no one. Thank them graciously and say no more. And resist the urge to turn up with a belated gift later on; it will only dredge up the embarrassing moment for both of you.

Tip
If you're the one who's been stiffed, divert attention to someone or something else as soon as possible.

Step 4: Get caught recycling
If you get caught recycling a Christmas gift or trying to pass off a freebie, cop to your mistake and laugh it off. There's really not much else you can do -- and besides, you deserve your shame.

Tip
If you don't care about the inequality, say thanks and leave it at that -- making a fuss will only underscore the disparity.

Step 5: Open a gift you hate
If you open a gift you hate, don't overcompensate with effusive gratitude. That's what many people do, but fake enthusiasm will actually betray your real feelings. Keep it simple with a "Thanks! It's great!"

Step 6: Receive an inappropriate gift
Received a totally inappropriate Christmas gift? Act graciously if the gift-giver had good intentions. On second though, be gracious even if the gift is completely thoughtless, blatantly recycled, or insultingly cheap. Christmas is no time to be petty; there's a whole new year ahead for that.

Did You Know?
Aunts are the worst Christmas gift givers, according to a survey.