Sticky Situation #3: You get a bottle of perfume from your sister, and regift it to your cousin. But then, your sister finds out.
Before you beat yourself up for being cheap, know this: More than 50 percent of people regift, according to polls. "There's nothing wrong with recycling a present as long as you think the recipient would truly appreciate it," says Leonard. But if you're busted, try this fast fix: "Cousin Kate had been eyeing that perfume forever and I wanted to give her something I knew she'd love. I was planning on buying another bottle for myself." Hopefully your sis will see that you wanted to please your cousin, not discard her gift. And in the future, make a list of who gave you what so you won't pass stuff off to someone they know.

Sticky Situation #4: A guest arrives at your holiday supper with someone you didn't invite.
Hey, there's your co-worker Sam -- with his friend Maggie. Ten place settings for 11 guests! What now? You may be put off by the surprise, but don't show it. "The extra guest likely feels uncomfortable enough, so there's no reason to make the situation worse," says Cheryl Richardson, author of Life Makeovers. Instead, put on a cheery smile and quietly set one more place at the table. A few days later, it's OK to gently tell Sam, "I was so happy to meet Maggie, but next time, please give me a heads-up."