A Bailout for Gift Givers
by Arthur Hawkins II
Gifts are just a token of your affection. It's the thought that counts. Remember that.
Do you buy the love, affection, and loyalty of the people and animals that receive your gifts? Are gifts some type of bribe? So why do you give gifts and what's on your gift list this holiday season?
Fortunately you can give great gifts without breaking the bank. Think of the person and not the price tag. Avoid excessive gift debt.
Questions gift givers should ask include:
- Who is on your gift list (list everyone)?
- What should you give each person (make a list)?
- How much should you spend on each gift and all of the gifts in total (list everything)?
You have a gift budget (present allowance), don't you?
Does having a gift budget mean that you turn into Scrooge? Does it mean that you do not care?
Not at all. It simply means that you are a responsible gift giver and have effectively brought joy to those that receive your gifts. That's all.
More expensive gifts are better, right?
Not according to Consumer Reports, a nonprofit magazine that rates products such as consumer electronics, food, and cars. Every month the top items in each category are regularly not the most expensive item. Surprise, the priciest products may even rank dead last. Generally, pricer items do not command a Best Buy rating (value).
You pay more and possibly give much less, when you buy the most expensive items. Think about it. . .
A Ghost of Christmas
Facing an inflated gift bill, especially for overpriced items, is not what gift giving is all about. Being frugal about gifts can be fun and rewarding. Just ask your loved ones and associates about receiving better gifts :)
Whatever you plan to spend on gifts, don't spend more than that amount. Set a concrete spending limit (each item, each person Authentic Tiffany & Co notes heart tag charm and chain outletonline , the total amount) and stick to it Tiffany & Co elsa peretti diamonds by the yard necklace online shop !
Be thorough in your gift planning and be sure not to leave anyone out (or else you throw the total off).
Some tips to frugally maximize the gift giving experience include:
- Do it yourself. Be creative. Gather the raw materials, build (arts & crafts, specialty items) or cook (cookies, cakes, dinner) it, and give a gift made with love. Homemade and handmade items bring a smile to people's faces. It's a part of you. Don't forget about gift baskets.
- Pay less. As a savvy shopper, always look out for sales Excellent Tiffany blue box charm best sale , specials, coupons, cash discounts, and rebates. Don't be afraid to negotiate. Ask for a lower price or when the item will go on sale.
- Use all your options: the Internet, pricing services, catalogs, gift certificates, warehouse clubs Tiffany inspired sterling Tiffany Venetian Link Seton sale , superstores, outlets, thrift, vintage & resale shops, auctions, freebies, 800 numbers, etc.
- Can't think of what to give people? Eliminate the stress of choosing items: Think gift certificate. Or give the same gift to people (including you). Customized and personalized versions work too. And if you make it by hand, even better.
- It's all in the presentation. Make the package memorable (yourself). Stores can professionally box and wrap presents for you too, even your homemade items.
- Early bird shoppers save: Day after Thanksgiving specials (Black Friday).
- Late is great. Last minute bargains arise.
What is more important, the price tag on a gift or the joy of the holiday season or special occasion?
Hint: You generally take the price tag off before you give someone a gift :)
In the end, the price you pay for gifts will be your own Exquisite design Tiffany elsa peretti open heart pendant small , literally. Preserve the fun in gift giving by keeping things simple and fun. Remember a gift is only a small token of your affection.
Happy holidays and happy shopping!
**********************RESOURCE INFORMATION************************
Arthur Hawkins II owns the InfoResearchLab website, a multi-topic Internet resource that includes information on gifts, gift ideas, and saving money. Learn more about it at
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