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.