Thrifty Spending Is Nifty This Holiday Season
Last week, I purchased refreshments, cups and ice for over 100 people, holiday cookies for 3 holiday gatherings, candy for almost 3000 career fair attendees — all under $100.
Believe it or not, that was pricey. I’m a bargain shopper. Always have been and if I hit the lottery tomorrow — will continue to be.
The holidays can be especially rough on our wallets. Holiday gatherings and christmas gifts have the potential to break the bank, but i’ve found a few ways to cut corners and save some pennies.
Many underestimate the treasures that can be found at dollar bargain stores. Family Dollar, Big Lots and Dollar Tree are a few that I frequent when searching for holiday candies, cookies, decorations, and wrapping materials. You can even get juices, boxed and canned foods for your food drives at these stores at bargain prices.
When shopping for gifts, these stores have great stocking stuffer potential too!
Listen folks, I even buy my toiletries, household items and cookwear, cosmetics and even SOCKS at these stores.
When looking for unique and cost effective gift ideas this holiday, I like to shop at TJMaxx/Marshalls/Home Goods. I don’t have time to spend hours scouring every isle, but i’ve gotten to the point where I can go in and just skim the store for what i’m looking for. I can even find great deals on holiday fashion to help me show up at all of these holiday gatherings looking like a million bucks (for about $50!).
I like giving themed-based gift boxes or baskets (compared to pre-assembled baskets running $50 and up). Spa items from the discount racks at Marshall’s, TJ Maxx, or even the dollar storie; bakeware and supplies from the dollar store; gardening supplies. Home decor. Entertainment, games, toys, etc. The items can be assembled in a basket/container you already own or pick up a thrift shop and personalized with things like notes or recipes. Package the whole thing up with cellophane and a big bow.
Books: Find out your recipient’s favorite book or type of reading. You can look for a vintage book (even some first editions can be had inexpensively) on eBay or Amazon.com, second hand bookstores and discount stores. Customize with an inscription.
Inspirational cards: Ok. So I stole this idea from a specialty store. They were selling these plain black and white inspirational cards for 2 bucks. Then they were framing the very same cards and selling the framed version (which featured the inspirational quote inside) for $35!! I bought the cards and scooted on over to the dollar store for some picture frames and viola…a memorable, personalized gift!!
Handicrafts: Don’t get me wrong. Homemade gifts are great. I used to bake cookies, make holiday trail mix and make crafts for the holidays when I had more time. While it’s fun and personal…unless you’re a “Martha” and have lots of time of hobbies, handmade gifts are rarely worth the time, energy and cost of supplies.
Lasting Memories: Start by collecting videos and photographs from your family land friends, like birthdays and holidays. Why not organize these photos and videos and create a home movie as a gift for your family. Websites like kodakgallery, picasa, and snapfish make it easy to do from your own home.
As time winds down, hope these tips are helpful. Just remember, the holidays aren’t about the dollar amount. The holidays are about the love of family and the appreciation of family and friends.
Remind yourself of the true meaning of the season — that doesn’t cost a thing!
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great tips…I’ve done the same thing with inspirational cards!