Two people in the same office wrote the same hint: “I like everything.” One received a pen set, the other a third scented candle.
Neither complained and both were quietly disappointed. The giver wasn't careless: they were handed a blank page and asked to read a mind.
Hints are the one part of the exchange that is entirely yours, and writing them well is the kindest thing you can do for the person who drew you.
Four lines that make a better gift
Say what you like, with specifics
“Books” leaves the giver in front of a whole shop. “Mystery novels, paperbacks, the kind you finish in a weekend” gives them a shelf.
Name a brand, a flavour, a colour, a hobby you're deep into right now: the more concrete the line, the easier the choice.
Add a wishlist with a top pick
Your page keeps up to ten items, each with a title, an optional link and, if the exchange has a budget, a price. Mark the one you'd love most as your top pick.
Whoever drew you sees the list beside your hints and can keep a private note of what they've bought; you and the organizer never see it.
Say what to avoid
Allergies, things you already own, scents you can't stand, sizes: a line of “no thanks” saves a gift from the drawer.
Keep it short and kind; it's information, not a complaint. If you'd rather receive money or a voucher, say so plainly: that's allowed here.
Update them when you change your mind
Hints aren't set in stone. If you find the exact thing, change your list: whoever drew you is told your hints changed, and the wishlist travels in that message. Writing them early and adjusting later beats writing them late and perfectly.
Leave room for a surprise
Don't turn your hints into a shopping list that eats the whole budget. Mix them: one thing you'd love, a few small ones and a line about what you enjoy, so the giver can surprise you. A giver with room to choose enjoys the exchange more.
Fill in your hints today
Your page already has a place for hints and a wishlist of up to ten items, with a link and a price if the exchange has a budget. Open it now and give whoever drew you something to work with.
