Who out there is on a tight budget right now? The holiday panic that sets in figuring out how you're going to pull off gift giving for your family and friends doesn't help the pressure cooker feeling. RedPlum's Mom Saver in Chief Lisa Reynolds shared with Galtime some ideas on how to scrimp your way through the season without looking like a scrooge. The great thing about her tips is you can use them for holidays, birthdays, or any event where it's pretty customary to give a gift:
1. Turn a meal into an event. Involve your guests in the meal preparation. Group cooking can be entertaining in itself, creating a festive atmosphere and giving everyone a chance to showcase their talents and signature dishes. Also, a sit-down meal isn’t always necessary – de-formalize by making a meal out of appetizers.
2. Personalize a gift. Make your photo frame, album, calendar or candle a standout by personalizing it with a photograph, engraved message or name. Put a little of yourself into the gift.
3. Give the gift of indulgence (even in a small way).It’s been a couple years of basic necessities and practicality. Give that someone who has had a rough year a gift that they would never give themselves but would love the splurge – a manicure, spa outing, dinner out or even a coupon for babysitting or some other much-appreciated gift of time.
4. Use layaway. These programs are back to help manage your funds during a time when budgets can be strained, especially around the holidays.
5. Have a plan. The holidays may find you short on time, but by having a plan, you will save time and be less stressed. Send out an interests’ inventory to those on your list so you don’t shop aimlessly; keep a list handy of what you’ve bought and everyone’s sizes; and avoid the crowds by shopping online. Redplum.com offers a Holiday Survival Kit to get you organized.
6. Pool resources. Consider chipping in on a larger gift for your parents, grandparents or someone else on your list that may be hard to buy for. You may need to organize the group, but the end result will be well worth it.
7. Give gifts that give back. Non-profits have felt the financial pinch. There are many great items where a portion of the proceeds go back to a worthy cause. Everyone feels good about that gift that keeps on giving.
8. Embrace frugality. There is a new way to shop these days; don’t abandon it around the holidays. Use coupon codes. Compare prices online. Shop sales. Pair coupons and seek deals like never before. There is more to buy so there is more to save!
9. Swap holiday items. Having a party? Instead of going out to buy 15 red chargers, see if your friend or neighbor has them to borrow. Does a friend need help accessorizing her little black dress? Offer her something you may have in your closet.
10. A Handmade or Homemade Holiday.Give a gift that may have a low cost but high meaning. Compile family photos or movies into a DVD keepsake; package homemade cookies or hot chocolate mix creatively; or homemade ornaments (which can be personalized – another trend!)
Lisa Reynolds is a busy working mom who lives and breathes the savings-oriented lifestyle she talks about on her radio show.
When she’s not at work, Reynolds is cheering for her sons at flag football games, hosting dinner gatherings with friends and family, and actively participating in her church community. She is also an avid cook with a philosophy of keeping it simple – less than five ingredients or meals in less than 30 minutes. She lives with her husband and two sons in Northville, Michigan. Reynolds is frequently quoted in newspaper, magazine and blog articles, and has been featured in Better Homes & Gardens, Forbes, Family Circle, 24/7 Moms Blog and more.
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