Brand-name Gifts

Why do we buy brands? If you ask my MBA marketing professor, we purchase brands not just out of affinity or loyalty. The habit of buying brands lowers the risk of dissatisfaction. Nobody wants to get the wrong thing, so we stick with the brands we trust to deliver results.

So what brands does your gift recipient love? Chances are, buying their preferred brands (while more expensive) may lead to a delightful present. For example, I check web sites and stores for my wife's favorite brands when considering gift ideas.

• Jewelry: Tiffany & Co.
  (the charm bracelet I gave on her birthday remains a favorite)
• Baskets: Longaberger
• Bakeware and housewares: Pampered Chef, Crate & Barrel and Williams-Sonoma
  
• Small kitchen appliances: KitchenAid
• Pottery: Little Bit of Bybee
  
• Chocolate: Godiva
• Perfume: Chanel Allure
• Music: Josh Groban, Michael Bublé and Jim Brickman
• Scarves: Burberry
• Wine: Chateau Ste. Michelle
  
• Liqueur: Baileys Irish Cream
  
• Slippers: Uggs
• Floral delivery: ProFlowers
  

The next time you're stumped for a gift, try composing a favorite brands list for inspiration.