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Thrifty Gifts for the Holidays

With the economy still recovering from a state of hard times, it is more important then ever to save where you can. With many Americans out of work and feeling the pinch of poverty on their heels, it makes more sense and will put you in a better mood to be smart this holiday season. Instead of buying expensive gifts that have no meaning, spend time – not money – on your loved ones. They’ll appreciate the gesture, and you’ll feel great about making something out of love. Here are some of the ways you can save some dough this holiday season while still getting kudos for a gift well given.

• Make a list… and check it twice. You’re not necessarily going to find out who is being naughty or nice, but you might need to consider who the important people are in your life. We’d all love to give a gift to everyone we know, but sometimes that isn’t feasible. Close friends, spouses, children, family and other loved ones are going to rise to the top of the list naturally, but what about all those folks whom you appreciate, but just can’t justify a gift for? Instead of leaving them off your list entirely, plan a group activity so that everyone can share each other’s company. Maybe a group dinner with office mates where you split the bill. After all, the company of each other is the real gift.
• Get Cooking – There are lots of things you might be good at, but you’ve never got the time or energy to practice. Well, if you’ve ever fancied yourself a baker or a jelly-maker, the holidays are the perfect time to experiment and have some fun. Your neighbors will appreciate a nice tin of homemade cookies much more than they would something else to clutter their garage. You can make your own homemade goodies and the sentiment will last much longer than any store bought item ever could.
• Regift – I know, I know, regifting isn’t necessarily the best idea, per se, but there are certain items that you can regift that are fun to share. You’ve probably got a few regiftable books that have brought you smiles and shudders in the past, so why not pass them along to someone else who would appreciate them, too? 
• MIY- (Make It Yourself) – If you’re not much of a cook or a baker, then consider making some crafts of a different sort. The possibilities are endless as far as what you can make just from the materials around your own home. Anything from a framed drawing to a personalized woodcarving can become a gift. Get Rich Slowly has a whole cadre of things you can try out for creative homemade holiday gifts.

What other ways can you save a dime this season when it comes to giving gifts? Chances are likely you’ve got enough stuff to turn into someone else’s smiles. It will put you in a great mood to give a thrifty gift, and it will put others in a great mood knowing you got them one.