by Catalogs.com Info Guru Jennifer Andrews

There is a famous saying that states it’s “better to give than to receive” – but why not give and receive for the best of both worlds?

Giving gifts is extremely rewarding in that you see others who benefit from the presents whether it’s something small such as a simple card expressing kindness or something larger such as clothing, antiques or household items. One of the best presents to give someone is something that can be shared with friends, family, colleagues or even strangers. Consider the top 10 gifts for sharing below and get started on your own holiday or special occasion lists.

10. Cookie assortments

Cookies are among the top gifts for sharing thanks to their yumminess and universal nature – who doesn’t love a good cookie? If you’re friends are cookie-lovers, try baking your own cookies at home to make a gift extra special since it’s prepared with love, time and effort. People who are short on time or ingredients however need not fear as they can purchase assorted cookies online such as buttercream frosted holiday cookies or brownies.

9. Cake

Marie Antoinette was on to something when she said, “Let them eat cake!” Indeed, share the gift of a deliciously divine cake such as Miss Grace German Chocolate to satisfy chocolate-lovers sweet cravings. Friends who prefer something other than chocolate may prefer the Miss Grace Lemon Cake.

8. Gift baskets

Gift baskets are a popular gift-giving item as they are appealing to most people’s taste-buds and make for a beautiful display. Try a classic entertainment basket which consists of gourmet cookies, buttery cookies and fudgy brownies all individually wrapped in snack-size portions – if you can limit yourself to just one that is!

7. Liquor

Give a bottle of wine or champagne to a friend, family member or colleague for a special occasion. Alcoholic beverages are easy gifts to share especially at birthday parties or corporate functions where the receiver can pop open the bottle and pour a glass for all. Better yet, send a wine gift basket that can be distributed and enjoyed by a group.

6. Donation

Think outside of the traditional gift-giving box this year and consider offering a donation to a charity or organization that serves to help others in need. Surprise friends or colleagues with a card that states what you have done and how the charity will benefit from the generous proceeds given.

5. Repeats

If you’re not sure what to give a person, look no further than your own home. Although re-gifting is considered chaste by some, it isn’t hurting anyone if you give someone an item you aren’t using and is in good condition. Consider passing along some of those great historical fiction books you have hiding in your closet or one of the two blenders or toasters you may have stocked up on in the kitchen cabinets.

4. Fuel up

Do you happen to car-pool with neighbors or co-workers to get to work or bring the kids to school? If so, then a gas card for your cars is a wonderful idea to share with each other. Simply pass the card on to the person doing the driving that day or week to cut down on increasing car fuel costs.

3. Vacation

Share the gift of travel with friends or family members by planning a get-away to an RV-friendly campground or park for a nature-driven weekend. Alternatively, you could really splurge and surprise the kids with a fun trip to Disney Land or theme park.

2. Spa date

Purchase a spa gift card for you and a friend to spend the day together. Many spas or resorts offer special holiday or occasional deals that give a discount if you bring a friend for a day or manicures, pedicures, facials and massages. Bliss!

1. Sugar-free

People with dietary restrictions such as diabetes or health-conscious people can be hard to shop for as it isn’t as easy to simply wrap them up a box of chocolates. However, with the increase in natural and healthy food items today, it’s not hard to find something appropriately tasty for sugar-free treats in sharing-sized packages.