Are you a spendthrift?
Giving gifts does not necessarily make you a spendthrift. Most of us are familiar with the old adage, “It’s the thought that counts”. This saying can be interpreted a number of ways, but the most practical interpretation is, “don’t worry about getting me anything (special), I thank you for being so considerate as to think of getting me something.”
If this interpretation is adopted by a majority of gift givers more people can start cutting back on gifts that would cost them hundreds of dollars. That having been said, it really is best to choose items that may not be that expensive but would definitely bring joy and amusement to the one who will receive your gift.
The gift card
So, if you want to give gifts but you have a tight budget, don’t worry too much because there are many ways to cut back on the prices but still be able to give gifts that will be deeply appreciated. Here are a few ideas that might help you bring smile to someone’s face during the holidays without having to break your bank.
Consider for a moment that, the trade-off between a gift certificate with which the recipient can buy exactly what s/he wants and a more expensive item that is really not the ideal gift may just be a more acceptable exchange and as well as a appreciated gift.
What not a gift closet?
Gift Closet is a really cool idea…Start one! If you have not done this before, try to do it now. Shop for gifts the whole year-round. This would mean less hassle and less expense, a definite money-saver. The point here is that if you do not plan in advance, you will end up spending more.
You could try buying gifts at bazaars, special sales, and out-of-town trips, which you can deposit in your gift closet. In this way, you can buy the items at a much lower price than it would be sold for during the holidays.
However, to make sure that you do not give the same gift twice, you should make an inventory of all your gifts. This will also allow you to keep tabs on what you have in your stock.
Alternatively, and in addition to stockpiling gifts, collect wrapping paper, ribbons, and other trimmings, adornments and other supporting items as well. A gift is better appreciated when it is beautifully wrapped.
Creativity & organization
Let the creative juices flow because nothing could be more amusing than a gift that was specially made by the person who gave the gift. Personalizing you gifts is far better than commercially made items. In this way, you do not only create a smile to the one who will receive the gift but you would also cut your gift-giving expenses by a large amount.
One of the best ways of saving money on gifts is to be organized with the process. That is, before going to the store or mall to shop for gifts, always bring with you a shopping list. It should be stated there, the names of persons to whom you will give gifts and the budget for each person.
The bottom line is that gifts should not be expensive. What matters most is that you have thought of the person on that very special day and that’s usually enough to make them feel they are special to you. However, this does not mean that you shouldn’t get a modestly priced item for that person.