Holiday Gift Giving – Tricky Situations Made Simple

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So you’ve started your list and you’re checking it twice… Trying to find out how much it’s all going to cost and where you’re going to get the money and…. WAIT. Holiday gift giving really isn’t that difficult and it doesn’t have to cost as much as you think. You can do it cost effectively as long as you plan ahead and take it a little bit at a time. Don’t get overwhelmed and panic! Here are a couple tips to help you shop for the perfect gift (or regift) for that difficult person on your list, who to shop for, and what to do when you just don’t have enough cash…

Short on Cash?
You’ve just lost your job, you’re saving for school, your hours were just cut or your gift list has just gotten way out of hand… Whatever your situation, there is no way that you’re going to be able to afford presents for everyone on your holiday list this year. Don’t sweat it. With a little communication and a little creativity, your entire gift giving monetary problems can easily be solved.

First you need to determine exactly what you can afford and exactly who you will be buying for.

-If you will be buying any presents at all, think about those people in your life that you truly WANT to give to during the holiday season. Don’t be pressured to buy for someone you really don’t want to bother with. If you and this person have always exchanged gifts, here’s the perfect time to stop the madness. Simply explain to them that you don’t have the money to buy for everyone on your list. Perhaps invite these people that you won’t be buying for over for a casual holiday get together instead.

Whether you won’t be buying any gifts at all, or only a select few, in order to avoid difficult situations, you’re going to have to communicate your plans well in advance.

-If you have a large family and usually buy for almost everyone, you’re going to have to do some talking (or get someone in your immediate family, who likes to talk, to help you with the communication). Simply explain that it’s been a tough year and that you don’t expect to be able to afford the same gift giving level as in years past. Your family will probably understand.
- -Think about other things that you can either make or do for your close family and friends instead of buying them a gift.
- - -If your dad is an avid golfer, give him a coupon good for one day of your services as a caddy. Not only does this cost zip but you’ll also be giving the most precious gift of quality time to your loved one.
  - -If you’re a fantastic baker, make cookies and package them in inexpensive gift tins.
  - -Send a handwritten letter to those you’re especially close to. In the letter, tell them what they mean to you, in your own words, along with a holiday greeting. You’re guaranteed that your letter will be kept much longer than the latest video game or designer bag.
-If you usually purchase gifts for everyone, or at least a good amount, of people in your office, be the first to suggest a secret Santa or grab bag this year. Odds are there are probably many more people at work that are in the same situation (or perhaps, they just don’t want to go through the hassle of figuring out what Mary at the switchboard would like this year). You’ll be seen as a sort of “hero” for making this suggestion.