The best gifts aren’t the most expensive. In fact, they’re often the most thoughtful because of the care and time that goes into doing them. The good news? It’s actually a win-win. The thoughtfulness and creativity that goes into a personalized gift often has greater meaning to your recipient than something selected from a mall.
This year has been very challenging for all of us. With so many unexpected events, it’s a relief to know that the holidays—although quite different for many families—remain as one of life’s positive experiences that we can choose to be grateful for.
From our team to yours—here are some wonderful ways to share the holiday spirit with your loved ones while sticking to a tighter budget.
1. Play Secret Santa, one gift for adults or for the children of a given family group. Agree to a cost limit or theme up front so no one is surprised or disappointed.
2. Similar to #1, have adults agree to buy gifts only for children. A food theme amongst adults can be enjoyed by everyone. You might even create your first-ever family holiday cookbook!
3. Expanding on #2, create a DIY cookbook of delicious holiday treats or your most-loved recipes. Offer to teach the prep and cooking steps to younger family members or anyone who’s interested. Photos of prepared ingredients coupled with before-and-after pictures can entice even the youngest family members to participate.
4. Use cash rewards from your credit cards to pay for gifts. Alternately, travel points can also be translated into gift items or gift cards.
5. Create your own infused beverages. What’s that special drink your friend or family member loves so much? A uniquely tailored infused beverage can create great memories when shared.
6. Create friendship/chore coupons offering to do a variety of tasks—from car cleaning and pet sitting to yard trimming and errand running. This type of gift invites you to reflect on how a generous action can speak volumes. Fun activities like scavenger hunts, game time, or story night are great for kids to anticipate as well.
7. Give the gift of an epic day trip! Certificates can be used in a certain month or time of year. Planning your route and activities is half the fun of this wonderful gift!
8. Wondering what to do for co-workers? Food treats aside, consider these fun ideas from our friends at Wired and Business Insider.
- Virtual karaoke, with replays you can watch together afterwards
- Organic snack samplers that arrive monthly for 3 months
- Start a virtual “bulletin board” where people can make recommendations or offer things in good condition. Slack, Trello or Teams can all be used to create a bulletin board channel. Books, music and unused gift certificates can be included if desired.
9. Be honest about your gift list and communicate what you can and can’t do up front—preferably before the double-digit days of December arrive. Did you know that a thoughtfully written letter with a photo or two of your memories together will be cherished and literally last a lifetime?
Thrifty tip: Pay for things in cash to minimize credit card expenses. Alternately, use a credit card that offers cash back on every purchase.
Warmest wishes to you and your loved ones for a safe and healthy holiday season!
The Artizen Staffing team
