4 of 38

Write now Article Tools

Trying to do your Christmas shopping on a budget? Join the club! Though it seems like a daunting task, you can give an appropriate gift to everyone on your Christmas list without dipping into your life savings. The key is organization and knowing your recipient. Isn't that what makes a gift meaningful anyway? The following list will help you accomplish your task within the limits of a reasonable budget.

1. Get organized. Make a list of every possible person you want to give to this year and a few last minute gifts that you could give to anyone. Next to each name, jot down a few ideas that could work or that match that person's hobbies, interests, etc.
2. Start early. Don't wait until December 1st to start looking for deals. This year, I found a sale at a toy store in August that took care of all the little ones in my life. They had a certain name brand of toy "buy one priced $20 and over, get one free". I got 4 very nice toys for $40. That's $10 per gift! Not a bad deal.
3. Make a habit of checking discount store ads every week starting around July. Closeout stores and discount retailers often run special deals on toys, clothing and other gift-worthy items throughout the year. Take advantage of these and don't forget to check online, too.
4. Give something with sentimental value to close friends or family members. If you don't have a lot to spend, buy a nice picture frame (on sale of course) and put a photo in it that you know will mean something to them. Try using an online photo service (like Snapfish or Shutterfly) to make enhancements to your photo. This can give it a professional quality for an amateur price.
5. Use gift cards only as a last resort. A gift that cost you $5 with a value of $15 comes across a lot better than a $10 gift card. It costs less, too!

Homemade gifts can be nice, too, depending on your audience. Some ideas for this option include:

- Homemade hot cocoa mix in a pretty jar. You can usually find a recipe for the mix online and a decent-sized decorative jar at a dollar store or other discount retailer. You can make a large batch and divide it into the jars, then attach a ribbon or bow and a gift tag with typewritten preparation instructions. This is a great idea for teachers, neighbors, mail carriers and other acquaintances that you want to bless with a gift but don't know very well. You could give it with a nice mug to step it up a notch.
- Personalized stationary. Supplies for making this yourself including stencils, stamps and card stock can be purchased at any craft supply store. Add a decorative ribbon and a pretty holiday box for presentation.
- Hand-sewn items (if you can sew). Homemade Christmas ornaments, lap throws or scarves sewn with the right skill can become heirlooms to the loved ones in your life. Don't attempt this option unless you really know what you're doing. Poor quality workmanship makes this more likely to become a "keepsake" in a box in the attic.
- For immediate family members or very close friends, coupons for time and services can be a thoughtful and heartwarming gift or stocking stuffer. Examples include massages (probably spouse's only), house cleaning, cooking or errand running.

If you really commit yourself to doing what it takes, Christmas on a budget can be minimally stressful and can even be fun! Take the time to organize and do your research and you can find the perfect gift for everyone on your list. If you spend less money than you had planned, use the extra to take yourself out for a nice dinner or a movie and relax. You deserve it!

Learn more about this author, Words of Art.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Christmas shopping: Tips for getting a gift for everyone without breaking the bank?
We want to hear your view. Write now!