Gifting Etiquette Guide: What to Give and When for Every Occasion

Choosing the perfect gift can be a joyful experience, but it can also feel a little daunting, especially when you want it to feel thoughtful, appropriate and well timed. With so many different traditions, expectations and personal preferences to consider, it is easy to second guess your choice.

That is where gifting etiquette comes in. In this guide, we will take you through what to send and when for a range of important life events, from engagements to graduations, bar mitzvahs to retirements. Whether you are a seasoned gifter or simply looking for a bit of reassurance, our tips will help you choose with confidence and generosity.

Gifting Etiquette Essentials

Before diving into specific occasions, it helps to understand the general principles of good gifting. From when to send a gift to how much to spend, these simple guidelines can help take the guesswork out of your decision and ensure your gesture is received in the right spirit.

When to Send a Gift

Timing matters when it comes to gift giving. Some occasions call for a gift on the day itself, while others allow for a bit more flexibility. For events like weddings, religious ceremonies and baby showers, it is ideal to send your gift in advance or bring it with you if you are attending. For milestones such as graduations or new jobs, a gift within a week or two of the announcement still feels timely and thoughtful. When in doubt, a belated gift with a kind note is always better than none at all.

How Much to Spend

There is no set amount you have to spend, but the value of a gift should generally reflect your relationship with the recipient and the nature of the occasion. For close family and friends, you might feel comfortable spending more. For colleagues, acquaintances or distant relatives, a small but thoughtful gift is perfectly acceptable. Remember, it is the thought behind the gift that matters most, not the price tag.

Personal vs Practical: Choosing the Right Type of Gift

Some people appreciate sentimental gifts that reflect their personality or your relationship, while others prefer practical presents they can use straight away. A good rule of thumb is to consider the recipient’s lifestyle, tastes and the event itself. For example, a personalised keepsake might be perfect for a wedding, while a practical item like a travel bag or cookbook could suit a graduation. If you are ever unsure, a gift voucher or curated gift box can offer a balance of both.

Celebrating Life’s Milestones

Life's major achievements, such as tying the knot, welcoming a new arrival, or graduating, are moments worth celebrating. A gift that reflects the significance of the occasion shows care and thought, helping to make the day even more memorable.

Weddings and Engagements Gifts

Weddings and engagements are deeply personal occasions, and the best wedding gifts are ones that feel equally thoughtful. A beautifully presented basket filled with elegant treats, wines or keepsakes is a classic choice for couples, offering a celebratory feel without being overly formal. It’s a lovely way to wish them well as they begin their next chapter together.

When to gift:

• Engagement: within a few weeks of the announcement or brought to an engagement party
• Wedding: ideally sent in advance or brought to the ceremony or reception

What to gift:

• Thoughtful keepsakes or homeware items
• Personalised items if you know the couple well
• Money for their honeymoon

New Baby Arrivals 

When a new baby arrives, practical gifts that also feel special are always appreciated. Soft blankets, baby toys and gentle bath products all make useful additions to a thoughtful bundle. A curated baby shower gift basket that combines charm and convenience can be ideal for new parents adjusting to their busy new routine.

When to gift:

• Baby shower: before or during the event
• After the birth: within the first few weeks is ideal

What to gift:

• Baby shower gift baskets with essentials and soft items
• Keepsake items like baby books or milestone cards
• Treats for the parents, such as snacks or pampering products

Graduation Gifts

Graduations mark the end of one journey and the start of another. Whether they are off to university, travelling, or starting a new job, a well-chosen graduation gift is a great way to show your pride.

When to gift:

• On the day of graduation or shortly afterwards

What to gift:

• Gift baskets with snacks, coffee, or stationery for their next step
• Personal accessories like pens, journals, or travel mugs
• Keepsakes or framed inspirational quotes

Gifting for Religious and Cultural Ceremonies

Religious and cultural celebrations often come with unique gifting traditions and expectations. Understanding these can help you choose a respectful and meaningful gift that honours the occasion.

Bar and Bat Mitzvahs Gifts

A bar or bat mitzvah marks a significant milestone in a young person’s life and their Jewish identity. It is traditional to give money in multiples of 18, symbolising chai (life) — for example, $36 or $180. If giving cash or a cheque, present it in a card with a warm, encouraging message. Physical gifts are also welcomed, particularly meaningful items such as Judaica, books, or kosher gift baskets filled with celebratory treats. Avoid overly casual or novelty items unless you know the family well.

Rosh Hashanah Gifts

Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is a time of reflection, renewal and connection with loved ones. Food-based gifts are especially popular — particularly those that symbolise sweetness and prosperity for the year ahead. Apples and honey are traditional, but premium dried fruit, honey cakes, or elegant Rosh Hashanah kosher baskets are also thoughtful options. Aim to send your gift shortly before the holiday begins.

Christenings and Baptisms Gifts

Gifts for Christian occasions tend to be thoughtful and symbolic, with a focus on keepsakes the child can look back on as they grow. Personalised gifts are particularly popular, such as silver photo frames engraved with the child’s name and baptism date, custom storybooks that include the child’s name in the narrative, or monogrammed blankets and memory boxes. Other traditional options include religious tokens such as crosses or children’s Bibles, especially when the family has a strong faith background.

It’s best to keep gifts tasteful and respectful in tone. For example, if you are choosing a toy or book, opt for something timeless rather than overly trendy or novelty. The gesture should reflect the meaningful nature of the day, whether the child will remember it or not.

Chinese New Year Gifts

Chinese New Year is a time for honouring tradition, family and good fortune. Gift giving plays an important role, particularly when visiting others during the celebrations. The most traditional gift is a red envelope containing money, usually given to children and unmarried adults. Amounts should be even (but not in fours, as the number four is associated with bad luck), and the envelope itself should be crisp and new.

If you're giving a physical gift instead of money, items that symbolise luck and prosperity are appreciated — such as fruit baskets, tea sets or festive snacks in red and gold packaging. Always avoid gifting clocks, handkerchiefs or anything sharp, as these carry negative connotations in Chinese culture. Presentation matters too: red and gold wrapping or bags are preferred, while white and black should be avoided.

Other Cultural Celebrations

Many cultures have their own meaningful events where gift giving is a valued tradition. If you are unfamiliar with the customs of a celebration you are attending, it is always best to ask someone close to the family or opt for a modest, beautifully presented gift with universal appeal such as food, flowers or homeware. Thoughtfulness, respect and timing matter more than extravagance.

Corporate Gifting Occasions

Work-related milestones may not carry the same emotional weight as weddings or births, but they are still important moments worth recognising. Whether you’re congratulating a colleague, celebrating a promotion, or marking a retirement, a well-chosen gift can leave a lasting impression — especially when it feels thoughtful rather than obligatory.

New Jobs and Promotion Gifts

A new role or promotion is a time of transition and pride, whether it’s a first job, a long-awaited step up, or a career pivot. Gifting is not essential but always appreciated, especially if you’re close to the person or part of a workplace culture that values recognition.

When to gift:

• Within a few days of the announcement 
• On the first day of the new role

What to gift:

• A stylish gift basket with coffee, snacks or office-friendly treats
• Stationery, desk accessories or a motivational book
• A handwritten card with a personal note of encouragement

Retirement Gifts

Retirement marks the end of an era and the start of a new chapter. A retirement gift should feel personal, celebratory and ideally reflect the retiree’s interests or future plans. Whether you’re gifting as a team or individually, the thought behind the gesture goes a long way.

When to gift:

• At a retirement party
• On their final working day

What to gift:

• A generous food and wine basket to help them celebrate
• Hobby-related gifts (gardening, travel, art)
• A framed photo, memory book or group-signed card from colleagues

Essential Gifting Tips to Remember

The best gifts are not just about the item itself — they are about the intention behind them. Whether you're celebrating a joyful milestone or offering comfort during a difficult time, choosing a gift that reflects the occasion, your relationship and the recipient’s values shows genuine care.

By following a few simple etiquette principles and considering the traditions that matter, you can give with confidence and warmth — and make every moment that little bit more memorable.