Pandemic-related unemployment or financial insecurity got you worried that you won’t be able to give your loved ones gifts this Christmas? Luckily, there are some creative – and inexpensive – ways to show your love this holiday season. Try these tips.
#1: Think Through Your Gifting Philosophy
What do you and your loved ones believe about gift-giving? Could it shift? Maybe y’all can decide together to share love this year without breaking the bank! A Secret Santa-style exchange could work this year, for example.
If you are going to give gifts, though, read on.
#2: Experiences Over Things
Experiences make better memories than things! Tickets to the zoo or a children’s museum don’t even need to be purchased up front, so you have more time to save for them, too. A camping trip can also be an incredible experience, and some retailers rent all the gear you’ll need.
You can also create your own romantic “gift certificates” for things like massages or date nights!
#3: DIY
Even if you don’t think of yourself as crafty, there are countless YouTube videos that can walk you through creating slime, sugar scrubs, candles, holiday candy … you can even make a KIT as a gift, so the recipient can enjoy making it. Or, especially for children, the gift can be the experience of making the item together!
#4: Thrift Store Toys
Younger children especially won’t know if a toy is previously owned. There are thousands of perfectly good toys for dirt cheap at thrift stores – just make sure to clean, disinfect, and test everything!