Are there 'rules' to giving gifts (in general or) for Christmas?

Question

I met a girl in July (she is 27, I am 37) and we have been in touch by phone and email until recently (October) that we saw each other again. We have gone to dinner, theatre and gone hiking. We have met up in night clubs and we seem to have good chemistry so far. I have not kissed her yet but we exchange hugs when we see each other. She knows that I am interested in her and we are getting to know each other.

She is in real estate is and works all the time. She lists houses for her business and I want to get her a gift for Christmas.

I want to get her a GPS system for her car. Nothing too expensive, under $200. I do not want to give candy or anything like jewelry, etc. at this time. I think she would really find the GPS useful.

What I want to know is whether this is a lame gift, useless, meaningless or does it show that I think about her and her work and want to give her something useful. Or should I hold back and give something else? Any ideas either way?

Answer 1

You are right to be concerned about the gift you give. There are all kinds of expectations, and missteps made in that department. Considering you haven't even kissed her, this is too expensive a gift to give your friend, no matter what your salary and hers are. Plus, it is too utilitarian, although it would be useful to her, it doesn't convey an "I am interested in getting to know you" feeling.

Try to think of something more relationship friendly but that is not too personal. Is there anything you have done together that inspires a gift? Is there something she particularly likes that you have noticed, a certain kind of music for example. Girls are impressed if a guy has noticed what they like without being told. You might even make a small basket with a CD or a book, bottle of her favorite wine, and some tickets to an event you think she would like.
Think about what you want to say with the gift.