Holiday Gifts on a Budget

Gift Giving Without Breaking the Bank

Nov 12, 2007 Rahaf Harfoush

You don't need a ton of money to show your appreciation for your loved ones this holiday season.

An Alternative to Holiday Shopping

The Holidays are supposed to be a time of when we collectively pause and appreciate the blessings we have in our life: good friends, good health, etc. However, there is an increasing pressure to express those feelings of love and goodwill through the purchase of consumer goods. If you are strapped for cash and looking for an alternative to purchasing gifts this year, here are some options that will help you celebrate the season with cheer:

Make Your Own Gifts

With giving and getting gifts, it is often the thought that counts. Making your own gifts can be an easy and fun way to show your appreciation for the people in your life.

Fresh baked goods are easy and can be enjoyed by almost everyone. Stick to recipes that are peanut-free in consideration of those with allergies. You can maximize your efforts by doubling (or tripling) the ingredients to create a large batch of sumptuous brownies, chocolate chip cookies or cupcakes, gingerbread men.

Jewelry, candles and soaps are also great gift ideas to try if you're feeling creatively daring. Or, if you’re a painter, poet, writer, or musician, consider gifting others with their very own piece your art that they can treasure for years to come.

Give Someone a Day

One of the most precious resources that you have is your time. Spend some time with that special someone doing something you both enjoy. Plan a romantic night in, go play tourist in your own city or simply spend the day together cuddled up with a cup of hot chocolate and the newspaper crossword.

For those with young children, try giving them a whole day where they get to decide how you spend your time together. From building snowmen to playing dress up use this time to create memories that they won’t forget.

Do Something Good

Instead of exchanging gifts, help others that are less fortunate then you. Gather a group of friends and volunteer at your local food bank or shelter. Charities and other non-profit organizations are always in dire need an extra pair of hands.

Check your local news paper for listings for toy drives and other initiatives in your community.

The Holidays can be hectic and stressful, especially with the pressures of Holiday shopping. Don’t let that get in the way of you enjoying what matters most: spending time with those you care about. Happy Holidays!

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