Ellen Phillips photo for ConsumerWatch column that runs every Sunday - Please use this photo from now onNovember is the time to put your creative eggs in one basket and ready yourself for inexpensive holiday gifts that might take a few weeks to prepare; hence, this early start. (I do love Mary Hunt's help!)
' Decide how much you'll spend. Obviously, this will vary depending on the person. Let's say you plan to spend $25 each on your two best buddies. While shopping, you come across a gorgeous scarf, originally marked $30 but now on sale for half-price. Just because you budgeted $25 but are now spending $15 doesn't mean you keep searching for another $10 gift to make up the difference. Nope. You've purchased a lovely gift and, even better, saved $10 to put toward another gift or to save for a rainy day.
' Consolidate. How about family gifts? Rather than buying for each member of your brother's family, why not purchase one gift they'll all enjoy? Board games, DVDs, a collection of hot chocolate mixes complete with the necessary number of mugs and a bag of marshmallows, a family pass to the zoo, a Bocce Ball set for outdoors - the sky's the limit.
' Make it personal. Gather those prized photos from this year or past years. Depending on the number of pictures you use (and for which recipient), a customized 2016 calendar can become a receptacle and recollection of good times. Grandkids' photos, antics for the grandparents or wedding and honeymoon memories for a favorite couple, for example, are only starters. Also include family birthdays, anniversaries and other special dates.
' Preserve your mealtime favorites. A wonderful idea for chefs on your list is to create a personalized cookbook. While this is great memorabilia for family members, such as a new bride or young adults just starting out, it's also a warmhearted and practical collection for anyone who admires your cooking. Passed-down recipes are especially meaningful.
' Document family stories. Many readers know I'm also a professional storyteller. While I thoroughly enjoy "telling tales" of all descriptions, my very favorite genre is the family story. Whether a scrapbook of family tales gleaned from older family members or a DVD of that person (or persons) reminiscing about the past, this type of sentimental gift, will be an essential inheritance to pass on to subsequent generations.
C'mon, now, get busy!
Contact Ellen Phillips at consumerwatch@timesfreepress.com.