They say appearances can be deceiving. In the case of gift giving, they might be right.
Consumers in the U.S. spend billions of dollars a year on wrapping gifts, in most cases to make their presents look as good as possible. This includes money spent on paper, boxes, ribbon and pretty bows.
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While some people are particularly skilled at gift wrapping — with the perfect folds, carefully tied ribbons and bows — others aren't quite cut out for it, and apparently would prefer washing dishes or cleaning the house.
Two colleagues and I wondered whether all that time and effort is actually worth it. Does a beautiful presentation actually lead to a better-liked gift? Or is it the other way around?
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