Do you want to give a gift that everyone loves and is within your budget? It can be done. Follow these five steps to keep your sanity and keep to your budget during
holiday season.1. Making a List and Checking it Twice
First, make a list of everyone you want to buy a gift for. There should be two lists - Essential and Would-Be-Nice. The Essential list would include people like family members and close friends. Some examples of those who would fall on Would-Be-Nice list are co-workers and service providers.
2. It's About Money, Honey
Create a gift-giving budget. This is an estimate of how much you want to spend per person. Don't worry exactly how this will work out. For now, set a budget for your essentials and decide to stick to it.
3. Profiler
Take out your Essential list. Now, what are you going to buy them? People will tell you what they want or what they're interested in if you listen. Does someone on your list love roses? A gift certificate to a reputable mail order nursery would be appreciated. Do you need to buy a gift for a bookworm? Give them a discount card from a nationwide bookstore. They'll love it. You can find more ideas at http://www.lovingatlanta.com/inexpensive-gift-ideas.html. The point is that everyone has a dream or favorite hobby. Give them something related to their passion and it's sure to be a winner.
4. If You've Got it, Flaunt It
When it comes to actually purchasing gifts, use everything you have including skills. Think of what people compliment you on. Do folks love your pound cake? Give a gift certificate good for one. Does your credit card earn you points somewhere? If not, dump it and get one that does. Are you a member of a site such as http://www.mypoints.com where you can earn points to redeem for items? If not, go over there and sign up. I had enough points from mypoints.com to take care of two people on my Essential list. That left me with more money for rest.
