As the holiday season approaches, so does the time-honored tradition of White Elephant gift exchanges. Unlike traditional gift-giving, White Elephant is all about surprise, humor, and sometimes, the delightfully useless. It’s a game where the gifts are anonymous, and part of the fun is the wackiness of what you might receive. So, how do you navigate this quirky terrain of gifting? Here’s your ultimate guide to White Elephant gift shopping for your friends!
Understand the Rules of the Game
Before you start shopping, it’s crucial to understand the rules of your specific White Elephant exchange. Typically, each person brings a wrapped, unmarked gift and places it in a central location. Players draw numbers to determine the order they go in. The first person opens a gift, and the following players can either choose a new gift or “steal” an already opened one.
Setting a Budget
Most White Elephant exchanges have a set budget, usually between $10 and $25. This budget keeps the game fair and fun, as everyone’s gift is more or less of equal value. Stick to this budget to ensure everyone plays on an even field.
Embrace the Spirit of Fun and Quirkiness
White Elephant is not about getting the most valuable or useful item. It’s about the laughs and the surprise. Look for gifts that are quirky, funny, or unusually interesting. Think giant inflatable unicorns, quirky cookbooks, or a set of bizarre coasters.
Consider Your Audience
While keeping it fun, remember who you’re shopping for. If your group loves a good joke, lean into the humor. If they’re more sentimental, find something whimsical yet touching. Always avoid anything that might be offensive or too personal.
Presentation Matters
The wrapping can be as important as the gift itself in a White Elephant exchange. Creative, misleading, or downright funny wrapping can add an extra layer of entertainment to the game.