Tips for picking and presenting perfect holiday gifts

With a few simple tips, your holiday gifts can be personal, meaningful and beautifully wrapped.

Spend time brainstorming. Make a list of the recipient’s hobbies, activities you’ve done together, favorite places -- anything that might inspire a gift. Take a look at the recipient’s social media pages to see which brands he or she likes or follows, or pinned on Pinterest.

Does your brother follow tech blogs? Purchase the latest tech trend, like a smart watch. Does your best friend pin anything with a monogram? Find great gifts on sites like Etsy or Personal Creations, which offer items that can be engraved or monogrammed for a completely one-of-a-kind present.

Head to the store or look online with a specific idea in mind, so you’re not overwhelmed.

Do a quick search online for available deals, and to compare prices from different retailers. Deal-sharing sites like Slickdeals provide information on offers across a wide range of product categories, while sites like PriceZombie allow you to track costs for your preferred present. The site will send you an alert when the item’s price drops.

Some research also helps you discover which stores have the best selection (and return policy). Be sure to get a gift receipt, especially if purchasing clothing.

Knowing exactly where you need to go -- the sporting goods store, the shoe section, the beauty aisle -- simplifies the entire process.

Make the wrapping as extraordinary as the gift with fun, creative packaging. Colorful wrapping paper in your recipient’s favorite color or pattern is always a good choice. Next, embellish with ribbons, bows or glittery tapes. Finally, don’t forget a card to express how you feel.

Remember, commercial packaging lacks the personal charm and care of a gift wrapped and shipped by you. Luckily, brands like Duck brand offer all the materials you need to easily -- and safely -- ship your wonderfully wrapped gifts.

Start by selecting the right shipping materials for the size of your item. You may want to consider a cushioned envelope, such as those from the Bubble Wrap brand, when possible, as they’re more cost-effective for shipping smaller items, plus provide extra protection for your shipped goods. For larger gifts, wrap them in several layers of Bubble Wrap cushioning for safety, then ship in a clean, sturdy box.

Seal the box with strong packaging tape, like EZ Start packaging tape. It won’t split or tear; plus the tape’s Frustration Free special release technology means you never lose the tape end, making the entire process easier.

For an even more festive look, consider using a colored or printed packaging tape, wrapping items in colored Bubble Wrap, like purple or red, or adding stickers to the outside of the box -- just be sure there’s room for the shipping label.

With planning and creativity, you can purchase and present the perfect gifts for loved ones this year.