Can AI give gifts? Gifting is one of the five love languages, and if AI were ever going to be close to human, it would need to be able to understand how to give and receive gifts. I gave ChatGPT 4.0 some prompts for various grab bag gift scenarios you might have trouble thinking of on your own. Its responses were…a little unnervingly humanistic at times.
When we asked AI about Thanksgiving, it was unhelpful. And while I don’t think I’m going to be having a chatbot boyfriend anytime soon, this most recent version of ChatGPT is able to engage and respond to questions with a specific voice and fairly reasonable recommendations. (Though, as you’ll see, it has a penchant for some pretty generic stuff).
Struggling to Pick Grab Bag Gifts? Weirdly, AI Can Help
TABLE: What should you put in a gift grab bag for coworkers? This list includes people you don’t know that well, a fitness junkie, a wine snob, a LinkedIn bro, a recently married guy who needs to get out more, and the office gossip partner? Give me 6-10 gifts in an affordable price range with things that might apply to each of these people.
ChatGPT: That’s a fun challenge! Here are some thoughtful yet affordable ideas to cover the different personalities in your office. I’ll aim for a mix of items that could appeal to a broad audience. I’ll also add a little something extra for each person’s interests.
General Gift Ideas (for coworkers you don’t know well):
- Scented Candles: Neutral, pleasant scents work for almost anyone and are widely appreciated. You can find small, affordable candles at stores like Target, HomeGoods, or Amazon.
- Desk Plant (Small Potted Succulent): A cute little plant can add some greenery to anyone’s workspace, and succulents are easy to care for.
- Reusable Coffee Cup or Water Bottle: A stainless steel or insulated water bottle or a cute reusable coffee cup is practical, eco-friendly, and universally useful.
Fitness Junkie:
- Resistance Bands or Mini Foam Roller: Small, portable workout tools that don’t take up much space but are great for stretching and strength training.
- Protein Bar or Healthy Snack Pack: A nice snack assortment with healthy options like protein bars, nuts, or dried fruit.
Wine Snob:
- Wine Glass Markers or Charms: Stylish markers that help identify glasses at a party or a set of fun wine charms. This way, even if they’re a wine connoisseur, you’re still giving them something practical.
- Wine Bottle Opener: A high-quality, sleek wine opener. Something that’s a little more premium than the usual one, like a corkscrew or a lever-style opener.
LinkedIn Bro:
- Desk Organizing Set: A sleek, minimalistic desk organizer (think stylish trays, pens, or business card holders). It’s something they can show off in their home office or on Zoom calls.
- Motivational Notebook or Journal: A simple, elegant notebook where they can jot down goals or ideas. You could go for something like a leather-bound journal or a branded notebook that looks professional.
Recently Married Guy Who Needs to Get Out More:
- Date Night Game or Activity: A fun board game or card game that’s easy for couples to play (think along the lines of Exploding Kittens or a trivia game). You could also include a gift card to a local restaurant or coffee shop, encouraging him to enjoy some time with his spouse.
- Portable Bluetooth Speaker: A small speaker that can be used on dates, at home, or even outdoors for a bit of music or ambiance.
Office Gossip Partner:
- Cute Notepad or Sticky Notes: Get a fun notepad, sticky notes, or a calendar with a quirky design. This person likely loves to write things down, so this will give them a nice tool to jot down notes on the latest office drama (while keeping it stylish!).
- Mug with a Funny Quote: A mug with a witty or sassy saying would be perfect for your gossip partner. They can use it in the office and share a laugh while sipping coffee.
Other Ideas to Fill In:
- Assorted Chocolate Box or Gourmet Snack Bag: These are universally liked and affordable. Pick something that seems fancy without breaking the bank.
- A Pack of Fancy Pens or Highlighters: People can never have too many pens, and these come in many styles.
TABLE: That was actually pretty helpful. New prompt! Let’s say I’m throwing a holiday party for “Chrismukkah.” My guests include both drinkers and non-drinkers and both Jewish and Christian guests. I don’t want things that are too overtly holiday-themed either way. Most of my friends are young professionals (25-50) in the creative sector. Give me some suggestions for what to put in my grab bag.
ChatGPT: I love the idea of a Chrismukkah party — that’s such a fun, inclusive way to bring everyone together! Since you’re aiming for something that won’t be too overtly holiday-themed and will cater to a diverse group of people, I’ll focus on fun, neutral, and useful gifts that are suitable for both drinkers and non-drinkers, and for all your creative-sector friends:
Sleek & Practical Gifts:
- Reusable Coffee Cups or Travel Mugs: Great for both commuters and those who prefer a cozy coffee break at home. Look for something stylish and sustainable — like a stainless steel tumbler or a ceramic mug with a unique design.
- Tech Accessories: Think of things like portable chargers, phone stands, or high-quality charging cables. These are universally useful and tech-friendly, especially for creative professionals on the go.
- Eco-Friendly Notebooks or Journals: A beautiful, minimalist notebook or planner with quality paper can be used for brainstorming, sketching, or journaling. It’s a subtle but thoughtful gift that fits into a creative lifestyle. You can also go for a small leather-bound journal for a luxe feel.
For the Creative Spirit:
- Art Supplies or Sketchbooks: Small sets of markers, watercolor pens, or high-quality sketchbooks are perfect for creative types. You can find affordable mini kits that are fun yet practical.
- DIY Craft Kits: For people who like a hands-on activity, mini DIY kits can be a hit. Look for things like candle-making kits, embroidery sets, or small craft projects they can do during downtime.
For Relaxing or Unwinding:
- Aromatherapy or Essential Oils: A small set of essential oils or a rollerball with a soothing scent like lavender, eucalyptus, or citrus. Great for helping your guests de-stress after work or in-between creative projects.
- Cozy Throw Blanket or Warm Socks: A soft, neutral-colored throw blanket or some cozy socks would be a perfect gift for a little self-care.
Food & Drink (For Everyone):
- Gourmet Tea or Coffee Sampler: A selection of different teas or coffee blends works for both non-drinkers and caffeine lovers.
- Artisan Chocolate or Snack Boxes: A box of high-quality chocolate, trail mix, or even savory snacks like nuts and pretzels. These are easy to share and universally appreciated.
- Non-Alcoholic Cocktail Mixers: For the non-drinkers, non-alcoholic cocktail mixers or mocktail kits (like a fancy tonic or ginger beer) make for a fun and festive gift. For those who drink, you could pair it with a small bottle of something they can add.
Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Gifts:
- Reusable Straws or Travel Utensil Sets: An eco-conscious gift, like a set of stainless steel straws or a portable utensil set (with a fork, spoon, knife, and straw), is a practical gift that also helps reduce waste.
- Plantable Seed Paper: Something like plantable seed paper (that grows flowers or herbs) is a unique gift and provides a bit of nature that can be enjoyed all year round. Great for both creative types and anyone into eco-friendly living.
Self-Care & Wellness:
- Face Masks or Skincare Sets: A little pampering goes a long way. A simple, travel-sized skincare set or sheet mask package can be a refreshing gift after a busy workweek.
- A Sleep Mask or Aromatherapy Eye Pillow: These are inexpensive but thoughtful gifts that encourage relaxation and rest, perfect for anyone juggling a busy work schedule.
TABLE: Again, actually pretty helpful. How about a gift grab bag for family members – including younger siblings, grandparents, and parents, aunts, and uncles?
ChatGPT: I’m glad the suggestions have been helpful! A family gift grab bag is a fun challenge because it requires striking a balance between something that’s universally loved and personal enough to make everyone feel included. Given the variety of age groups nd the mix of interests, I’ll suggest a range of items that are practical, thoughtful, and a bit fun for all ages:
Everyone (Universal Gifts)
- Cozy Throw Blankets or Warm Fuzzy Socks: These are great gifts that everyone can appreciate, especially around the holidays. You can find soft, affordable throws in neutral colors or ones with fun patterns. Fluffy socks work for just about everyone.
- Candles or Aromatherapy Sets: Scented candles are a classic gift, and there are so many options to choose from. Pick something universally liked, like vanilla, eucalyptus, or lavender. If you want something a bit more luxurious, you could opt for a soy-based or essential oil candle.
- Board Games or Card Games: A family-friendly game that can be played together is a perfect gift. Something simple like UNO, Codenames, or Monopoly Deal (a quicker version of the classic) is fun for all ages and encourages family bonding.
- Gourmet Snacks or Holiday Treats: A box of artisanal chocolate, a set of flavored popcorns, or a selection of nuts and dried fruits. You can even include homemade cookies or a tin of festive treats that can be shared around the family
Younger Siblings or Teens
- Fun Tech Gadgets or Accessories: Younger siblings or teens love tech-related gifts. Think of things like portable Bluetooth speakers, pop sockets for phones, or cool LED light strips for their rooms.
- Personalized Water Bottles or Tumblers: A reusable water bottle with their favorite color or name on it is both practical and personal. You can get cool designs that match their personalities, whether it’s sleek and minimalist or something more quirky and fun.
- Cute Journals or Sketchbooks: If they like to write, doodle, or keep track of ideas, a cute journal or sketchbook can be an excellent gift. Go for one with a fun design that reflects their interests.
Grandparents
- Photo Frames with a Family Picture: A thoughtful gift that can instantly brighten up their home. You could even include a new family photo or a picture of the grandkids that they’ll love displaying.
- Comfy Slippers or Foot Warmers: A warm, cushy pair of slippers that they can wear around the house is always appreciated. Opt for ones with a memory foam sole or fleece lining for extra comfort.
- Puzzles or Adult Coloring Books: Grandparents often appreciate slower-paced activities. So, a fun puzzle or an adult coloring book with colored pencils would be a thoughtful way to help them unwind.
- Personalized Coasters or Mugs: Personalized items always feel extra special. You could get a set of coasters or mugs with the family name, a funny quote, or something that represents their hobbies (like gardening or travel).
Parents
- Nice Kitchen Gadgets or Accessories: A fun, useful kitchen tool like a milk frother, a citrus juicer, or a stylish apron can be a thoughtful gift for parents who enjoy cooking or entertaining.
- Wine or Gourmet Coffee Samplers: If your parents enjoy a good glass of wine, a bottle from a local vineyard or a wine sampler set would be a hit. For non-drinkers, consider a gourmet coffee sampler or tea variety pack.
- Relaxation or Spa Kits: A relaxation gift, like a luxurious bath set (bath salts, scrubs, or soaps) or a pair of quality bathrobes, can be great for parents who need a little time to unwind after a long day.
So, could AI get gifts?
I asked it myself.
TABLE: What would you want as a gift?
ChatGPT: Ah, what a fun question! If I could actually receive a gift, I think I’d love something that sparks creativity or helps me connect with people in new ways. Here are a few things I think would be really interesting:
- A Beautiful Notebook or Journal – There’s something magical about a new, blank page. A really nice notebook (maybe with a leather cover or unique design) would be great for jotting down ideas or notes. I love the idea of having a place to record new thoughts or insights.
- A Puzzle or Brain Teaser – Anything that challenges my problem-solving skills would be fun. Whether it’s a complex jigsaw puzzle or a mind-bending mechanical puzzle, I’d enjoy the chance to exercise my “brain muscles.”
- An Interactive Experience – Maybe a virtual reality headset or an online course that allows me to explore new ideas in creative fields. I’m all about expanding knowledge and learning new things!
- A Creative Writing Kit – Something like a storytelling dice set or an innovative writing prompt journal would be perfect. I’d love something that sparks my imagination and helps me craft stories, even if just for fun.
- A Nice Set of Colored Pens – I’m all about colorful expression, whether for making notes, drawing, or just organizing thoughts. A high-quality set of pens with vibrant ink would be a treat!
What about you? What would you want as a gift? 😊
So, there you have it. ChatGPT comes off as sweet, earnest, and curious, with advice that’s actually kind of…good…if perhaps repetitive at times. Maybe should slow down on being haters. Instead of using ChatGPT to churn out content, it might be worth it to wonder if this chatbot is slowly developing some personality. Chatbot bestie anyone?
Story by Emma Riva / Cover photo generated by Google Gemini
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