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Unwrapping new relationships: Survey finds more than half of new couples will regift to save money this holiday season

FALLBROOK – A recent survey conducted by TopCashback.com revealed couples’ gift exchanging expectations for the most wonderful time of the year.

The survey polled a cross section of 2,174 adults, aged 18 and over, on their holiday gifting habits.

While 9% of Americans intentionally terminate a relationship to avoid gift-giving, the remaining 91% are thinking about that special gift for that special someone.

To gift or not to gift?

Like first impressions, first gifts are of great importance with 3 in 5 Americans or 60% believing the amount of thought that goes into gift-giving directly reflects how much time you put into the relationship.

The survey asked “On average, how much do you spend on a present?” The survey showed 31% spend $51 to $100, 26% spend $26 to $50 and 14% spend $101 to $150.

What types of gifts would you purchase for a new significant other? The survey showed 49% would buy clothes, 44% said they’d buy perfume or cologne and 41% answered tech items.

While men and women agree the first gift should be thoughtful at 51%, there are notable differences between what types of gifts each party desires.

The top three responses on gifts women prefer were jewelry at 51%, gift certificates and gift cards at 46% and perfume at 45%.

The top three gifts men prefer included tech items at 59%, clothes at 37% and gift certificates or gift cards at 29%.

The top five go-to gifts showed what they’re actually getting, however. Clothes came in at 49%, perfume or cologne at 44%, tech items at 41%, tickets to an event at 36% and jewelry at 31%.

Gift-giving etiquette

In addition to gaining insight on types of presents, TopCashback.com asked participants to weigh in on holiday etiquette and found that 61% of couples do not include a gift receipt with the present. The survey also discovered that nearly two-thirds or 65% would not be offended if their partner dislikes their gift.

While gift cards can be considered one of the easiest presents, Americans are torn on whether they would gift one.

To the question “Do you believe giving a gift card for your first holiday season together is impersonal?” Forty-one percent answered “Yes, they’re impersonal,” 34% answered “They’re fine,” and 26% chose “They’re appropriate as long as it is not the only gift,” according to the survey.

With the holidays coming up in the next few weeks, shoppers may have an idea about what they’re purchasing their new beau, but what about their family members?

The survey asked “Do you buy a gift for your significant other’s family?” and 62% said yes, and 38% said no.

Forty-five percent said yes to the question “Is spending the first holidays with your new significant other’s family too soon?” and 55% answered no.

Sleigh bells or wedding bells?

Surprisingly, more than half or 62% of couples still buy a gift for each other even if the relationship is destined to end. And nothing says commitment like engagement, but be warned: 31% of respondents believe that getting engaged during the holidays is a tacky idea.

Budgeting around the holidays

More than half of new couples or 54% said they have established a budget for their holidays together.

What was the agreed budget? The survey showed 31% chose $51 to $100, 21 % chose $26 to $50, 14% chose $101 to $150 and 10% chose $151 to $200.

Would you regift to save money? Fifty-five percent answered yes, while 45% said no.

Who serves as Santa’s helper?

New couples are not ashamed of hinting. Almost two-thirds or 63% of participants are guilty of dropping hints about what they want for the holidays.

The survey found that 28% peek and look for their gifts, while 72% wait until the holiday to open their gift.

“Keep in mind that there are many ways to save on all types of gifts this holiday season all while making a good first impression,” Rebecca Gramuglia, personal finance and shopping expert at TopCashback.com, said. “And guess what? Being smart with your finances is pretty attractive, too.”

Submitted by TopCashback.com.

 

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