BUSINESS GIFT GIVING IN FRANCE
Selecting and presenting an appropriate business gift- Be conscious that displays of warmth and generosity in business associates are not standard practice in French business culture. Giving presents to business associates is acceptable here, but exercise good judgment in what you give and to whom.
- Social gifts are expected for personal events, for example as a thank-you after a dinner party. High quality chocolates or flower bouquet are simple yet sophisticated gifts that are sure to be appreciated.
- Don't be overly concerned about your gift being considered too expensive or inexpensive. Let your recipient’s taste guide you as to what is appropriate.
- Unique books and music CDs are often appreciated as gifts. Make sure, however, that you have some idea of the recipient's interests and tastes before making this kind of gift.
- Good gift selections can also include anything that reflects the interests of your hosts and is representative of your country such as coffee table books about where you are from.
- Do not include your business card with a gift. It is considered improper in France.
PERSONAL GIFT GIVING
- It is a rare honor to be invited to a French home.Send flowers, quality chocolates or liqueur to the host as a thank you and if possible, present your gift before the entertaining proceeds.
- If you decide to send flowers, flowers to avoid are chrysanthemums (funeral), red roses (love) and carnations (can be interpreted as a sign of bad will).
- Don't bring a gift of wine to a dinner, since the host usually prefers to make the evening's selection. A possible exception to that rule would be a special French dessert wine or high-quality liqueur.
- If you have been guest at a dinner party or similar social gathering in a home, be sure to send a thank-you note to your hosts as soon as possible. A handwritten note is more meaningful. Sending flowers or a basket of fruit are also thoughtful gestures.
- Holiday cards are appropriate, particularly as an expression of thanks to business partners. In France people often send New Year's greetings. This can happen anytime during the month of January, but not later.
Links to helpful sites About France:
Taxes and Customs to Send a Gift to France
http://www.ambafrance-us.org/intheus/customs/21000.asp
http://www.fedex.com/us/international/irc/profiles/irc_fr_profile.html?gtmcc=us
Holiday dates in France
http://www.discoverfrance.net/France/DF_holidays.shtml
French Personal White Pages for Addresses & Postal Codes
http://www.pagesjaunes.fr/pb.cgi