Why Personalized Gifts are a Bad Idea

(413 Words)
There are a variety of reasons why personalized gifts may be a bad idea. You may see the following disadvantages with them.
Not everyone likes their name on things
Some people do not like the look of personalization. They may think that it is childish to have their name on something. They may think that it looks silly. If it is for a child, then the parents may feel uncomfortable with strangers being able to see the name of the child or even worry about the safety of such a thing. Many children do not want something that has their name on it because they may be embarrassed in front of their friends. They may want their items to blend in more with those of other people and not stand out as personalized items often do.
They are difficult to return
The truth of it is that you do not always hit homeruns with gifts. If you buy a gift, but then see something else you like better you can often return it. Personalized gifts are usually not returnable, however, so you may be stuck with it. The same will go if they wish to return it themselves. Many gift givers like to include gift receipts with their presents so that the person can exchange it for something that they like better. You are unlikely to be able to offer this with a personalized gift. If they do not like it, then they will still be stuck with it.
They often cost more
Many people are trying to save money. Personalized gifts are often expensive. You may be very limited by the stores where you can buy them.
You risk getting the personalization wrong
If the personalization comes out wrong, it can ruin the entire gift. You may not even realize it before you give it, which can create a big problem. If you are shipping it to them, then you will not be able to check it before they receive it, and then they will have to deal with shipping it back.
They may take longer to get
You may have to wait to get personalized gifts. It can be hard to get this as a last minute gift.
The personalization does not always look good
Depending on what you get, the personalization can sometimes come out looking cheap or rushed.
Personalized gifts many not be the perfect gift for everyone. Be aware of the above disadvantages when considering such a gift.