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Group Gifting - Gift Ideas

People are constantly looking for unique gift ideas. But if you don't have the time and creativity to play "Martha Stewart," then consider group gifting!

Group gifting is a great way for a group of friends and family to share the cost of a great gift for an individual or organization. Group gifting takes the hassle out of buying gifts alone.

No more scrambling at the last minute, wandering around a store, or wondering what in the world to buy while sticking to a budget. How many really exciting gifts can you really buy with $10, $25, or even $30 these days? Budget conscious gift givers should really consider group gifting when thinking of gift ideas.

A group gift makes sure that the lucky recipients get what they really want - something they will remember and really appreciate. The more people who pitch in, the bigger and better the gift you can get. NO more mundane CDs, T-shirts, desk trinkets, or simply gifts that would probably be re-gifted or exchanged.

Just imagine if 10 friends get together for a birthday and each bring their own $30 gift, the birthday girl might get a few DVD's and a t-shirt. Now if these friends pitch in to a group gift, they can afford a really great $300 gift - like a new ipod or a nice pair of designer shoes.


Group Gifting Process

Group gifting is fairly straight forward, and you've probably been a part of one in some form. You may have been part of an office group gift for a co-worker's baby shower, birthday, wedding, or some other gift occasion. There are, however, a couple things that you need to start a group gift.

1. You'll need someone to be the organizer of the event (often friend, family member, spouse, or co-worker).
2. You'll need to pick a gift.
3. You'll need a list of people that would like to pitch in for the gift.

When to Group Gift

Group gifting can really be used for any gift occasion, but below are some of the most common events people group gift:

• Baby Shower Gifts
• Office Retirement Gifts
• Birthday Gifts (Example: kid birthday gifts parents are a part of all the time)
• Wedding Gifts
• Graduations
• Teacher Gifts
• Holiday Gifts

Whether the economy is up or down, whether you have a big individual gift budget or not, Group gifting is one of the great, gift ideas sensitive to your individual budget and time, and reduces overall gift giving stress.

How can I make a group gift event successful?

Essential Helpful Organizer Tips

1. One of the most important things to do as an organizer is to communicate how exciting and great the gift will be if everyone pitches in to a group gift. Whether you communicate via email, on the phone, or in person, your enthusiasm and desire to get a great gift for the recipient will go a long way.

2. Talk to individuals close to the gift recipient to get a short list of gift ideas. See if the gift recipient has a wishlist setup somewhere. Contrary to what most people think, it's becoming more acceptable to simply ask the gift recipient what they want. If you want it to be a surprise, ask what top 3 things they would want for the occasion. Once you find out what they want you can think of other complimentary items that you might add to create a gift basket.

3. Determine how much each person is willing to pay. You can suggest a range with a minimum amount or determine an exact amount based on the number of participants in your group.

4. Some participants might give more, for example parents or a spouse, might pitch in more money to make up a short fall. See if you can find that out ahead of time.

5. Encourage initial group members to spread the word. They might know others that would like to contribute that you may have forgotten about, or don't know. This isn't mandatory to know, but can help either get you to the finish line, or raise more money then you need.

6. Set a deadline as to when you will be collecting the money. Give yourself ample time to be able to purchase the gift. Keep in mind that some products take time to ship especially if it contains customization (i.e. engraving).

7. Don't pressure people to contribute if they do not wish to do. Each person is in different financial situations - be sensitive to each individual. There may be an event that they are more willing to contribute to because of their relationship with the gift recipient, and you don't want any future resentment towards group gifting with you.

8. Get a greeting card for the event and allow the participants that contribute to the gift to sign the card.

9. Send reminders to the group at least 2 weeks before the event. Sometimes a personal phone call or an in-person reminder is more effective than just sending an email. The participants will feel more at ease if you can communicate the idea that once they contribute to the group, they will not have to think about what to get the participant and that you are there to make this group purchase smooth and seamless.

10. Clear communication and setting expectations with the group will help you setup a successful event without offending people within your group. Remember, YOU are the leader of the group. You are the Alpha dog in the pack. Follow the group gifting suggestions above and you will be revered for your efforts - and of course, most importantly, gift recipients will get fantastic gifts!

Labels: gift idea, gift suggestion, gifts, group gift