If you only have a little money to budget for Christmas gifts, don’t get frustrated! Here are some solutions that are tried and true.

THRIFT STORES AND CONSIGNMENT SHOPS:
Christmas shopping doesn’t have to be expensive. There’s no shortage of privately owned and charitable second-hand stores that have a treasure trove of things that are suitable for gift recipients on your list. Surely you have someone who appreciates the now-popular vintage style, an antiques lover, a collector or a book fanatic.

Some of my favorite gifts have come from Goodwill, St. Vincent DePaul and other thrift stores.

Not only are “second-hand boutiques” great sources for the non-traditional, White Elephant exchanges, they have a treasure trove of items that can be repurposed.  Look at these examples:

The photo on the left is a large rug that our (very creative) friend, Regina, made from wool sweaters that she felted.  In the center photo, Regina made this beautiful brooch, again from thrifted wool sweaters.  Finally, the photo on the right is what I call a Souvenir Scarf.  Sandy made these for all the ladies one Christmas.  She customized  each with thrifted t-shirts.  Mine included University of Michigan, Las Vegas, Mardi Gras,  and Jimmy Buffett.

You can save time as well as big bucks: Commit to thrifting year-round and you can avoid several days of mall craziness next Christmas!

By shopping thrift stores and second-hand boutiques, not only do you save money, but you assist in funding programs and services for people in need, you support your local economy and you do your part for the environment.

MAKE IT:
Everyone can create. Use it to make something for that special someone. I’ve crocheted gifts, made salsa, BBQ rubs and salted caramel hot chocolate.  On the receiving end, there’s been homemade biscotti (yum), soap, jewelry and ornaments.

The most cherished handmade gifts are those that invoke or preserve memories. My friend, Shelley, taught me that quilts could offer some small comfort in times of grief by wrapping the quilt around you when missing your loved one. So, when Sandy made a quilt using Mom’s clothing (see Memory Quilt post) I don’t think my eyes were dry for the rest of the evening.

Putting family recipes into a scrapbook for the next generation was welcomed.

THE GIFT OF YOUR TIME:
Skip the store-bought presents and give a little bit of your time. This is a true gift of from the heart.

Food is Love. Invite them over for a special meal or one in their honor. You can promise to take them to a restaurant they’ve always wanted to try. Or how about delivering an entire meal for the family so they don’t have to cook?

Offer to help with home improvement. Whether it’s painting or landscaping, this would be welcomed by almost anyone. I remember purchasing annuals for our mother on Mother’s Day. But planting them with her direction,  was the true gift.

Give a promise to create something together.   I attended this Arty Party near my home.  We had a little wine, some music, great fun and created something beautiful to take home. And don’t forget, the time you spend together is priceless. If you’re outside the Northern Kentucky area, I suggest you Google “art party” and include your location.

Offer your talents. If your friend or family member sucks at organizing, offer to organize a closet, an attic or basement. How about putting together their resume, making a web page or doing their taxes? Is someone on your list a clutter-bug? Offer to de-clutter and have a garage sale. Then do something together with the extra cash. Are you awesome at photography, decorating cakes, knitting or car repairs? Offer to teach that special someone. We all have talents we can share.

Share in the cause. Find out which causes are most important and offer to volunteer with them. Your gift will not only make them feel great, but you’ll help make the world a better place.

Give the gift of an experience. Tour your city on Segways. See a play together. Have a psychic tell your future. Share your first horseback ride. You get the idea!

If you’d like to make a gift-wrapped presentation, print a gift certificate or a coupon book.

Go forth and be a great Santa!