I always get some useless trinket and the line “you’re just so hard to shop for”
My (step?)mother in law is really hard to shop for. I always feel like I have no idea what to get her. She doesn’t want for anything, she’s pretty frugal/non-materialistic, doesn’t really have any hobbies, is kinda boring, etc.
I do my best but always wonder if she’s venting online like you (she isn’t for sure).
If people buy you shitty gifts and say that, give them a better wishlist or clear guidance.
I have literally told them things I would be happy with… I’ve been very specific about some things too. For example, I tend to be hard on jeans so anytime gift giving comes up I will tell people that I will be happy with new jeans and specify my size.
I know I tend towards nonmaterialistic and people seem to hate buying practical gifts but that’s honestly what I would prefer. I have also said on multiple occasions that if they really can’t find anything, I will be extremely happy with a simple bottle of vodka or anything penguin related… Yet somehow I never get useless penguin trinkets.
Comfort items. Nice slippers, snuggie, robe etc…
Anything that makes lounging on the couch is fair game.
High quality bedding can be appropriate depending on relationship level.
Pro tip, work your gift idea into a conversation with them by complaining about your similar item. They will tell you if they love/hate their thing.
Bonus tip, once they start complaining about their thing take note of what they don’t like about it and solve their problems.
Listening to complaints is the real core of thoughtful gift giving.
