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Safe Return Gift Options for Adults in India

Religious Themed Gifts

Source shutterstock.com | Religious idols as return gifts

The tradition of gifting return gifts at parties is a time-honoured one. Giving return gifts is a way of thanking your guests for taking the effort to come and ensuring that they leave with satisfied hearts. In India religion is a vital part of our lives. If your party or gathering is being attended by a lot of people especially people who are elderly, then a safe gift option would be something religious like an idol of a god or goddess, or artefacts with religious motifs and images. Religious gifts give people a feeling of hope and goodwill. A lot of people associate religion with luck and prosperity. Gifting people with objects related to religion is a sure shot way to get their approval.

Beautiful Handcraft Gifts

Source shutterstock.com | Local, handcrafted items as party favours

Handicrafts are also a popular return gift choice for a party consisting mostly of adults. India has 29 states and seven union territories. Almost every state in India has a cottage industry producing a unique style of handicrafts particular to that region. There are huge volumes of handicrafts being produced every day in India. Indian handicrafts are famous all over the world for their beauty and distinctiveness. You can find a wide array of handicraft products on the market. There are handcrafted bags, home décor items, jewellery and a ton of other useful things. You can buy them from government emporiums, flea markets and also online. Shopping for handicrafts online will give you access to a variety of different styles of handicrafts from a large number of states. You can also find great bargains when you shop for handicrafts online.

Edible Treats

Source shutterstock.com | Candy, sweets and edible treats are welcome return gifts

Whether kids or adults, edible treats are always welcome as return gifts. Traditionally, sweets are given out to guests during weddings or other festive functions. But today there are a lot more exciting options - chocolates, cupcakes, candies, cookies, gourmet products like jams or pickles - you can pick both that fits the occasion and your budget! Look around for local suppliers who can help you create the perfect return gift for your event.

Small Household Utilities

Source shutterstock.com | Give guests small household utility items as return gifts

Another popular segment of return gifts is utility items that can be put in use in the kitchen or office. Guests will find it thoughtful that you have gifted something that will help them in their daily routine. If you think such gifts make sense for your event, then look around for small gadgets - it could be something as mundane as organisers, kitchen gadgets or as exotic as aromatherapy sets. Try to pick an interesting gift that will surprise them!

Top Tips To Make Your Return Gift Purchase Smooth

Buying return gifts can be a daunting challenge. After all, it involves you identifying the right gift, ordering the right number and negotiating the right price. To make it simpler we have some tips and tricks you should keep in mind when you start on the task.

Few Tips To Keep In Mind

  • A return gift should never be big and bulky.
  • Fix a budget and try sticking to it. Since you will be making a bulk purchase, try negotiating for additional discounts and freebies(gift wrapping paper, stickers etc)
  • Keep your guest profile in mind while deciding your gift. You can mix the gifts by buying different ones for men and women. Or you can go by their age to choose gifts

Religious Return Gift Options

Ganesha Metal Wall Hanging

Source amazon.in I Ganesha metal wall hanging

Lord Ganesha is supposed to be the bringer of wisdom, peace and prosperity. Gift your guests the E-CraftIndia Nine Variants of Lord Ganesha wall hanging to help them invite positive vibes into their home. This beautiful wall hanging is made of bronze coloured metal and measures 22.5 cm x 1.25 cm x 22.5 cm. Buy it for Rs.550 from amazon.in.

Cute Handmade Ganesha Idol

Source amazon.in I Handmade Ganesha sculpture

If the wall hanging we have suggested seems on the higher side, take a look at this sweet idol of Ganesha on the same site. Sculped by artisans out of resin powder, the multicolour idol is of size 5.6 Inches X 4.6 Inches. and weighs 360 Gms. Order it on amazon.in for Rs. 249.

Mecca Madina Key Holder

Source batranovelties.com I Mecca Madina keyholder

Mecca Madina is the most important pilgrimage site for the followers of Islam, and this beautiful clock with engravings of the two famous monuments will make any ardent follower very happy. This artistic piece is made of wood and plastic (33*20 cm)and features two key holder hooks. You can order it on batranovelties.com where it costs Rs.76 per piece. The minimum order quantity is 12 pieces.

Buddha Cube Lamp

Source giftcart.com I Buddha cube lamp

The square Buddha lamp from Giftcart.com puts a stylish twist on a religious symbol. This uniquely designed lamp has a vibrantly coloured psychedelic print design which becomes visible when the lamp is lit. The printing has been done on a scratch proof laminated surface which makes it extremely durable. Buy it for Rs.999 on the Giftcart site. This eye-catching table lamp measures 4 x 4 x 4 inch, and comes fitted with 1 LED bulb.

Metal Buddha Face

Source boontoon.com I Metal Buddha wall hanging

If you find the earlier suggestion too expensive then surely this will be a good option. This elegant metal Buddha idol will add a calming vibe to any place it is displayed. The idol can be used as a table top decoration and also as a wall hanging. Made of brass, the idol looks premium and is durable. It measures 3"x1"x5" approx. You can buy it on boontoon.com for Rs. 305 per piece.

Ganesha Rock Slate and Dry Fruits Hamper

Source giftcart.com I Ganesha rock slate and dry fruit hamper

If a gift basket with a religious theme is what you are looking for then pick this one from Giftcart.com. This hamper contains a Ganesha idol(2.5 inches), a slate printed with the Ganesha mantra( 5.7 inches) and a 100 gm bag of almonds. Buy it for Rs.1,299 on the site

Colourful Metal Ganesha Bell

Source boontoon.com | Metal Ganesha bell

Fill your guest's house with the divine sound of a wind bell. Crafted with care, this bell made of metal comes with a colourful exterior with two Ganeshas separate represented on two sides. Measuring around 5.5 X 11.5 this is a offbeat gift idea that will make your gift a memorable one for your guests. Priced at Rs. 600, you can order it on boontoon.com.

Feng Shui Evil Eye Crystal Pyramid

Source giftcart.com | Feng Shui crystal pyramid

Introduce your guests to the powers of Feng Shui by gifting the Feng Shui Evil Eye Crystal Pyramid from Giftcart.com. Made of Glass crystal and measuring 1.6 cm this artistic piece of home accessory keeps the home safe and protected. In feng shui, the pyramid is said to usher in harmony and prosperity and keep away, while the evil eye is known to protect from harm. Buy it for Rs.549 on the site.

Gorgeous Handcrafted Return Gifts for Adults

Source Handmade gifts

If you have decide on handcrafted items for you return gifts then take a look at the list that we have put together for your convenience.

Wooden Salt Pepper Dispenser Set

Source handicraftsinindia.in | Wooden salt pepper dispenser set

Made of wood, this cute salt-pepper set will be a lovely addition to your guests' home. Featuring a charming carving of a lion, the set weighs 100gms and has a height of 4" and a diameter of 1.5 inches. This exclusive kitchenware item can be ordered for Rs. 360 on handicraftsinindia.in. Delivery is free when the order value is above Rs. 500.

Engraved Metal Jewellery Box

Source craftwala.in | Metal jewellery box

Measuring 17.50cm X 12.50cm X 6.25cm, this oxidised silver box is a fantastic addition to any house. The box can be put to use in many ways, from storing dry fruit to storing jewellery. Engraved beautifully by skilled artisans, the box is made of wood with a white metal sheet covering. The traditional designs on it make it a sophisticated accessory to any room. Buy it for Rs.199 on craftwala.in. The site has a number of sizes in such boxes so do explore to find the right one.

Round Dry Fruit Box With A Push In Lid

Source boontoon.com | Round dry fruit box

Traditionally styled this dry fruit box with engravings all over will be a lovely option for festive events. With perfect finishing, the box comes with four internal compartments and a push-in lid. The dimensions of the box are around 10x10x2 Inches and it is a great option to gift dry fruits, candies or even chocolates. Buy it for Rs. 635 on boontoon.com

Wooden Dibby

Source handicraftsinindia.in | wooden carved dibby

A Dibby is a small wooden container usually used for keeping vermillion powder or Kumkum. This small wooden Dibby from Handicraftsinindia has beautiful carvings on the outside and costs Rs.60 a piece. These are perfect if you are looking for pretty and inexpensive return gifts.

Decorative Lamp

Source handikraaft.com | decorative lamp

A highly useful and elegant gift idea, this lamp is made of crystal-style plastic set in a brass frame. You can keep either an tea light or even light it traditionally. Suitable for all kind of guests, this lamp can be purchased on handikraaft.com for Rs. 455. If you buy in bulk you may be able to get discounts, so do not fail to check beforehand.

Handcrafted Wooden Coaster

Source ivei.in | Wooden coaster set

One can never have enough coasters, and when you have coasters as charming as these elegant handcreafted ones that feature prints that are inspired from the traditional Sanjhi art of Mathura. Made from seasoned wood, these coasters measure 3.25in X 3.25in X 0.25in. This set of four coasters have been created by rural artists of UP and the set costs Rs.275 on ivei.in.

Source amazon.in | Personalised photo coasters

Want to make it personalised? How about coasters that feature photographs or art selected by you? Check out Amazon India where you can provide any image you want and that'll get printed on the coasters. Priced at Rs. 289, these coasters are a set of 4 and are made of MDF Wood and they measure 10 cm x 10 x cm x 0.5 cm.

Block Printed Duppatas

Source indiamart.com| Kashmiri stole

An elegant printed dupatta or a sophisticated stole is one gift that your female guests will greatly appreciate. This beautiful pastel shaded stole from indiamart.com is something that will go with a wide range of outfits. Buy it for Rs.444 on the site. The stole has a length of 74 inches and width of around 30 inches.

Small Return Gift Items For Adults

Source shutterstock.com | Ethnic return gifts

As we have said before, return gifts need not be big or extravagant. There are plenty of small inexpensive aesthetically pleasing items which make great return gifts. We have curated a special list of a few such items.

Gift Box with Gourmet Tea

Source www.dantaherbs.com

There's a lot of variety in gourmet products that can be gifted. From teas and coffees to chocolates and even jams, a small set makes for a welcoming gift at any time. You can choose from which every product best suits your occasion. We have here a gift box with two unique tea blends that you can gift to guests of all ages. The box contains Coconut Spice Black Tea and Tulsi Twins Green Tea, 50g each packed into an attractive container and gift box. You can check out this product and other such on the brand site here.

Bangle Box

Source theoneshop.in | Bangle box

Bangles are one of the most difficult jewellery to store. But with this fabric covered bangle box from theoneshop.in storing away your bangles neatly will be easier than ever. The box has a beautiful design motif on the outside and costs Rs.99.

Source nandigifts.com | Bangle box, big

For a slightly bigger and more colourful option check out this bangle box on nandigifts.com. The box measures 8.5cm in diameter and 15cmwidth and weighs135gm. Made of fabric and sturdy board, this box costs Rs. 140 on the site. Prices reduce on bulk orders, reaching as low as Rs. 90 on purchase of 100 boxes.

Wind Chimes

Source shaabee | Windchimes

Made of wood, this chime set is a wonderful decorative addition to any house. Hand painted with colourful designs there are seven chimes that ring. You can order these on Shabee for Rs. 189 per piece and the minimum order quantity is 6 pieces.

Floating Floral Lamp

Source nandigifts.com | Floral floating lamp

It’s common to gift diyas or lamps for the occasion of Diwali. Giving your guests a diya as a return gift would be appropriate for occasions like these. Measuring 13cm in diameter, this beautiful lamp features a fiber plastic plate with a silver plated lamp affixed on top. The base has brightly coloured work which gives an extremely festive look. Buy it for Rs.120 on nandigifts.com

Source theoneshop.in | Floating crystal flower light

If you want to gift your guests with a small gift which creates a big impact then go for the Crystal Flower Tea lights from Theoneshop.in. These beautiful lights are bejewelled with crystals which make them shine and sparkle in the dark. A set of two candles cost Rs.79.

A Box of Scented Candles

Source lighthousecandle.co | scented candles

Scented candles are a wonderful gift to virtually any type of guest and it also suits almost any type of event! A great addition to every house, you can find a wide variety of fragrances and containers. This gift is also flexible as you can get a set as per your budget. We have shortlisted here a set of four candles that come in glass votives. Each candle measures: 2 inches in diameter and 2.5 inches in height and contains 50 g of wax. This particular set features four different fragrances - vanilla caramel, english rose, jasmine green tea and French lavender. Available on lighthousecandle.co for Rs. 429.

A More Traditional Alternative - An Incense Gift Box

Source phool.co

A unique initiative, Phool natural incenses are made using discarded sacred temple flowers. Handmade and using 100% natural essential oils offer a lasting aroma that is impressive. This gift set features 2 boxes of sticks and 2 cones, each accompanied by a holder. This particular set comes with tulsi, patchouli, vetiver, and loban.In total, the gift set has 40 pieces of each incense type. The gift set costs Rs. 620 and is available on the brand's site

Decorative Mina Bowl

Source nandigifts.com | Decorative bowl

A bowl can be used for keeping a variety of things and this elegant mina work bowl from theoneshop.in is not only useful but also looks great on a tabletop. You can use it to keep your keys, for arranging fruit or simply on top of your dresser. The bowl is made of aluminium and has a decorative layer of meenakari work. Buy it for Rs.130 on the site

Swan Shape Kumkum Haldi

Source theoneshop.in | Haldi kumkum box

If you want to stick to traditional gifts then this swan set would be a great choice. This set of two can be used for essentials like vermillion, turmeric and sandalwood paste. Great for use in mandir and rituals, this set is made gold plated and made of base metal and costs Rs.149 on theoneshop.in. If your budget is on the lower side then you can look for smaller version available on the site for Rs. 95.

Pick Your Gifts Keeping In Mind The Elderly Adults And The Young Ones

Source shutterstock.com | Thoughtful return gifts for elderly

When you are having a social gathering in your home your guests will comprise of people of various ages. In our culture, we always aim to respect our elders. This must be kept in mind while choosing return gifts as well. When there are elderly guests present, it becomes essential to pick gifts which convey your respect for them. Things like religious idols, puja accessories, traditional handicrafts etc. are things which are appreciated by elders. Pick such gifts to make your elders happy and receive their blessings.

For the young crowd, you can go for more unconventional gifts that still adhere to the spirit of your celebrations.

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From our editorial team

Don't forget the budget!

It's very easy to be carried away when purchasing gifts. So you need to be careful when you choose return gifts. Fix a budget and the number of items you are going to buy. Enquire as to the availability of any wholesale stores or wholesale online stores which will bring down your budget. Also, if possible get multiple gifts aiming at different age groups. This will be a hit among the guests and they will appreciate the pain you have gone through to choose the return gift. Even if the gifts do not go well with a small portion of the guests, don't worry!! You cannot satisfy everyone at the same time.