Whether its birthdays, Christmas or end of year teacher gifts, gift giving can get out of hand. While we should inherently take pleasure in gift giving, it can easily morph into an overwhelming financial burden. The most important trap to avoid is feeling obliged to reciprocate with costly gifts. One of the best routes to take in order to avoid breaking the budget is to plan in advance. It’s no surprise when family birthdays or Christmas is. Make a list of friends and family that you regularly exchange gifts with and stick to it. Think of ways that you can give your time as a gift instead of purchasing gifts. Offering to babysit, clean house or run errands is a fun gift that is always well received. Making gift certificates with a simple word processing program is a free way to create a memorable gift.
For Christmas gifts, make your list early in the fall and spread out your purchases over several months. Christmas can be an expensive time with the extra food, drink and entertaining. Considering joining in with friends and family towards gifts or even introduce exchanging names if you have a rather large extended family. The element of surprise with exchanging names adds to the excitement of the occasion and to the gift itself.
Giving gifts that are homemade is another great way to spread Christmas cheer without breaking the bank. Whether you’re crafty, a great baker or commit to a spring flower garden, these types of gifts are always well received and won’t break the bank. It’s always important to keep the spirit of giving in mind and know that it’s more the thought and effort behind the gift not the price tag.
Purchasing online over the holiday season is one way to avoid shipping costs for friends and families that live out of town. You’ll also avoid the long lines at the post office and shipping stores. Planning the head is the key to enjoying holiday gift-giving without breaking the bank. Enjoy the season!