![]() It’s easier to exchange items from larger fashion chains or department stores, but Italians often appreciate higher quality, designer labels more than mass-produced fast fashion. If giving wine, purchase from a wine shop where there is staff to guide you rather than a supermarket.Ĭlothing and accessories can be a fine gift, especially if made by a local artisan or designer but be aware that making returns and exchanges can be complicated (and sometimes impossible) in Italy so be absolutely sure about the size, color, and style. Many Italians are very choosy about their cuisine and know the difference between artisan and commercial food, so opt for quality above quantity. Wine and food are very popular gifts during the holiday season, one of the most common gifts is a “cesto natalizio”, or Christmas basket bursting with sweet and savory goodies. There are a few things you should keep in mind, however. Don’t let the stern online warnings against presenting chrysanthemums scare you, for example - no Italian florist would ever sell you a funeral flower if you tell them you are invited to dinner. In fact, high-end soaps, perfumes, and bath foams are all the rage and make for excellent hostess gifts, especially if artisan or from a historic “profumeria” (perfume shop).Īlso, most independent shops in Italy take great pride in their personalized service, so will guide you towards the perfect gift if you let them know the basics about the recipient and occasion. For example, I have seen stern warnings online about not giving soap as it could be interpreted as a hint regarding personal hygiene, which is the silliest thing I have ever heard. ![]() Let it be said that Italians are generally extremely gracious and polite, so even if you accidentally break a cultural norm it is highly unlikely that you will offend anyone. Here are some guidelines for gift-exchanging etiquette in Italy, as well as some helpful vocabulary for choosing, presenting, and receiving holiday gifts: Holiday Gift Etiquette in Italy Today, elaborate decorations, holiday parties, and carefully chosen gifts have become fundamental elements of the holiday and you’ll need to know the ins and outs of graciously giving and receiving gifts to navigate the season successfully. Until a few decades ago, Christmas in Italywas more a religious celebration than a commercial one, revolving around family and faith. Find out when the time would be appropriate to present your gift - for example, in a meeting or outside of the office, in a social setting.With December comes the most important month for gift exchanges on the Italian calendar, beginning with the Festa dell’Immacolataon December 8th - officially kicking off the Christmas season - and ending with the Epifania (of Festa della Befana) on January 6th, when the holidays come to a close.Other countries like Denmark will make you declare the value of a company’s gift to tax authorities if it surpasses a certain amount. Many companies in countries such as Singapore and the United States, for example, have policies restricting the giving or accepting of gifts in an attempt to avoid any appearance of bribery. Check your company’s policies regarding gift giving.Exchanging gifts is a highly-valued custom in some cultures, while in others it may be unimportant, inappropriate, or at times unlucky or insulting. Understand the protocol regarding gifts in the country where you will be doing business.A few general tips for gift giving across cultures: We therefore want to share with you a quick guide to gift giving around the world. While there is hardly anyone that does not enjoy receiving a gift, it can be tricky to find the right present, especially when the friend, colleague, or boss comes from another part of the world. But whether you celebrate the Christian holiday of Christmas, the Jewish tradition of Hanukkah, or some other seasonal event, exchanging gifts to loved ones, colleagues or friends is a custom throughout the year in many cultures. With the holiday season upon us, giving gifts is top of mind for many of us these days.
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