Most of us are familiar with "Do unto others as you would have others do unto you" -
Sometimes we need to think of the platinum rule - especially when it comes to gift giving - "Do unto others as they would like to be done unto"
For example - My DH gave me an electric coffeepot (about 1962) - and it was a nice coffeepot - EXCEPT I don't drink coffee and don't like the smell of coffee brewing. I suppose the thinking was that it would make it easier for me to make coffee for HIM - that was back in the days when I still did things like that.
Another example: A silver-plate (not top of the line, either) meat serving tray - definitely not my style - and none of my kids want it either. We use Corelle for dishes.
There are times I would much rather have an inexpensive token or note that shows that the person was paying attention to what I like and do - than a more expensive item that totally ignored my likes and dislikes.
The best rifle in the world - no, thank you -
All of my (older) sewing machines serviced - yes, please.
Another example: I would love to get gift certificates for JoAnn's. My family says "Oh, you don't need any more sewing stuff." I really don't, but what does that have to do with anything?