Dear Jacquelyn, I’m not trying to take the easy way out, but I have received several gifts over the years that I have no intention of using. I am considering re-gifting them this year. When I ask around, I get mixed answers about this. What’s your opinion on re-gifting?

Dear Reader, At one time it was considered poor taste to re-gift. Today, however, it has become widely acceptable.

There’s nothing wrong with thoughtfully passing along an item that you yourself won’t use to someone who will appreciate it.

That being said, there is an etiquette of gracious re-gifting. You lower your chances of committing a holiday faux-pas by keeping a few things in mind.

As a general rule of thumb, only re-gift an item that is something you would have purchased for that person.

For example, if you have a friend who is into candles, go ahead and give them the candle you have stashed away. Your gift should always be something that you know they genuinely want.

It’s also very important to remember who originally gave you the gift. You certainly don’t want to re-gift an item from someone in the same social circle.

If a family member gave you the gift, then you shouldn’t give another family member that gift. Give it to a friend who isn’t in your family circle.

Avoid re-gifting anything that was hand-made for you, monogrammed, or anything that’s been opened.

Please, under no circumstances should you ever give a gift that was used. It’s very important to check and remove any gift tags that might still be attached.

After you decide who is the perfect fit for your item, make an effort and rewrap it nicely. Wrapping gifts yourself adds a personal touch.

As an added bonus, it gives the feeling that you put time and effort into the present, even if you didn’t.

A gift that comes from your heart with good intentions and thoughtfulness is what it’s all about.

Respectfully Yours, Jacquelyn

Have a question? Email: jacquelyn@ptd.net. Jacquelyn Youst is owner of Pennsylvania Academy of Protocol, specializing in etiquette training. She is on the board of directors of the National Civility Foundation. All Rights Reserved &Copy; 2018 Jacquelyn Youst