Holiday Budgeting: Get a Gift for Everyone on Your List Without Breaking the Bank

By: Salina Greene, Outreach Coordinator, NHS of Baltimore

The Holiday season is soon upon us. Many of us are trying to figure out ways to spend less money and cut corners wherever we can. The first thought would be to buy fewer gifts. However, with a little creativity, you may still be able to shop for everyone on your list. Gift exchange is a viable option. The first line of business is to see if everyone in your group agrees to purchase one gift instead of multiple ones for the entire group.

Secondly, a price point should be set to avoid overspending and gift favoritism. Choose some sort of theme. This can easily turn into a party if you decide to explore this route. Make it fun. See if you can make a game out of the exchange; or even establish a stipulation of homemade-only as a way to challenge the gift-givers. Suggesting a little creative competition, helps everyone involved feel like they are a part of the giving experience. Everyone likes to see a happy face upon receiving an extraordinary gift.

We have all been victims of the “throw the name in the hat” choosing game. To avoid the unwanted, generic gifts such as fragrant soaps, candles, socks, etc, be sure to place some gift preferences and other pertinent information on your name card. And finally, suggest using a coordination system online to create wish lists for your group. This can cut out the paper trail and make sure everyone is organized and e-mails are received. Here are some site suggestions if you choose to go this route: www.elfster.com, www.secretsanta.com.

Remember, no one should have to go into debt over the holidays. There are plenty of ways to show you care other than tangible gift-giving. Help a neighbor out, offer your services to people in need of assistance. These are the gifts that keep on giving year-around.