Preserving Your Finances When Buying Gifts Without Losing Quality
Giving gifts doesn’t have to mean spending piles of money on elaborate or luxurious presents - it’s about the spirit and the thought of the present, even when purchased with discounts or coupons.
So, before you spend an entire month’s grocery budget on another gift, read on for 5 fantastic tips that will show you exactly how to go about saving money on gifts without sacrificing quality.
1. The Gift of Food
For acquaintances or friends, something as simple as a cute chocolate bar or a jar of fancy, imported horseradish can make a great gift for little expense. If you want to be really thrifty, you could even make your own preserves or baked goods to wrap up and give away. A tasty pie or a bundle of cookies both make wonderful gifts.
When gifting food, make sure it will stay good for long enough to actually deliver the gift. In other words, don’t, for example, send a lovingly baked cake through the mail.
2. Magazines
Magazine subscriptions are remarkably cheap, as in less than $20 annually, and they’re a gift that keeps giving all year long. Try to find a magazine that fits the recipient’s interests. For example, if the person to whom you will give the gift loves running, get them a subscription to a running magazine.
3. The Charitable Donation
Give the gift of charity by making a donation in your gift recipient’s name to a favored charity. You don’t need to say how much was donated. So whether you donated $5 or $500, a simple card that reads “A charitable donation was made in your name to ________” will suffice.
4. Get Crafty
It’s all about making your own gifts to save money. If you have a sewing machine, are good with the knitting needles or even have a knack for painting, it’s time to get out your tools and start creating.
Crafting a gift is a wonderful way to put a piece of yourself into a memorable present that’s sure to be cherished.
5. Garden Gifts
Plan ahead for gift season by planting your garden with friends in mind - from beautiful bouquets to pretty plants and edible treats, your garden is a great way to grow free gifts. When it comes to gifts, nothing quite beats a basket full of homegrown tomatoes.
Remember, gift giving doesn’t have to be expensive. If you look to your garden, your own craft skills, charitable ideas, magazines or even tasty treats, saving money on gifts - even on travel gifts - without abandoning quality is easy.
