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Whether you need a gift for a birthday, anniversary, Mother's Day, or International Left Handers Day, choosing the perfect gift can be a trying task. No one wants to be "that guy" or "that woman" who always gives presents that make their way to the return line, or end up being regifted.

The next time that you are on the hunt for the ideal present, remember these tips for selecting the perfect gift for any occasion.

Consider the giftee's interests/personality:

While gifts like ties and bath/shower sets are suitable gifts, nothing about them screams, "unique" or "thoughtful." To help you find the perfect gift for any occasion, make a list of the gift recipient's interests, hobbies, and personality points. This simple consideration will not only make you stand out from the gift-giving pack, but also will make the giftee feel extra special.

Also, when shopping for the perfect gift, remember that you are buying a present for someone else. It is easy to find yourself on the slippery slope of allowing your interests and wants to filter into what you think the gift recipient would like. Even though you think the pink, fuzzy slippers are divine, chances are, your 65-year-old father will not.

Think outside the box:

First, try giving a homemade or creative gift for a change of pace. This could mean creating a scrapbook of memories for a friend or loved one, or it could mean hiring a pencil portrait artist to create an image of someone or something meaningful to the giftee.

Second, thinking outside the box could also mean taking gifts that involve the interests and hobbies of the gift recipient to the next level. For example, if you are shopping for a music enthusiast, try searching for a signed vintage album or first edition record. Also, if the giftee happens to be a sports lover, look for personalized and autographed items from their favorite athletes, or find unique items featuring team logos. Either of these options will score more points with the sports lover in your life, rather than gifting the traditional t-shirt or hat.

Watch your wallet:

Gift giving should never be followed by bankruptcy filing. Sticking to a shopping budget is a great way to eliminate some of the stress of gift giving, and also ensure that you can find a gift that satisfies the giftee and your wallet.

In most cases, communal occasions like, "Secret Santa" Christmas gift exchanges and office parties. will have pre-established spending limits. It is best to follow these guidelines to ensure that you are not spending beyond your means, and to also avoid looking obnoxious by showing that you have cash to burn.

As an added tip, you should also set a price range for gifts exchanged with your significant other during birthdays, anniversaries, and other important events. However, for gift giving occasions where a spending budget is not already established, it is a good idea to ask your friends, family, and co-workers how much they are going to spend, so that you have a general idea of gift expectations.

Appropriateness is key:

The perfect gift will always be appropriate for its occasion. Face it, a bridal shower gift is going to be much different than gift that you would give to your professor or boss (hopefully). Even if you and your boss have a fun, humorous relationship, chances are, your superior would not want to unwrap massage oils at his or her office birthday party.

Always ensuring that your gifts are appropriate for their occasions and receivers, means saving both you and your gift recipient unnecessary embarrassment, and unflattering whispers.

Do not be afraid to shop online:

Shopping online can be a great place to find unique items that make perfect gifts. Many websites offer discounted items, which will make your wallet happy. However, the biggest advantage to shopping online is that the Internet offers a host of websites that feature handcrafted, and international creations that you will not be able to find at your local Wal-Mart, or other department store.

When you are in the market for the perfect gift, try websites like Overstock.com, UncommonGoods, and redenvelope.com. Gift giving is an experience that should be enjoyable for both the shopper, and the gift recipient. Taking the time to explore the giftee's interests, thinking outside of the box, being mindful of your wallet, choosing an appropriate gift, and not being afraid to shop online, are all great ways to find the perfect gift for any occasion. Try these tips when you are in the market for your next gift item, and happy shopping!