The Etiquette of Gift Giving
You should be careful in the giving of gifts. NEVER give a gift in a job interview or prior to a business meeting. Gifts are usually given during special holidays, or as thank yous" for special invitations or events.
At the time of arriving to a special event or social gathering, you may present your gift to the host once the introductions are made. With gift giving, a few rules are in order:
Be modest with your gift; do not buy expensive or extravagant gifts Perishable gifts (a special food from your country, a bottle of wine, candy, flowers) are best if you do not personally know the host very well, but be certain that your gift will not require immediate attention. Your host will be very busy, and you should avoid adding another task to his or her evening. You can usually say something like, "I thought you would like this a little later" when you offer your gift.
Be careful of giving alcohol; a bottle of wine is usually all right if you know your host drinks wine, but hard liquor (whisky, scotch, etc) should only be given as gifts only when you know the host and are certain that they would welcome such a gift; Flowers are good, but remember: roses are for personal relationships. Do Not Give roses. Cut flowers are nice if they are in a vase;
A small cultural gift from your country is usually very appropriate
Make certain your gift is packaged nicely, with a nice card attached to it"
