Great gifts don't have to cost money
With all the hype and one-day sales, it's easy to get sucked into thinking you have to drop lots of cash while holiday shopping. But it's simply not true. There are many gifts that are just as momentous and fun as big, pricey items that don't cost a thing. From homemade art to holiday swaps, here are seven absolutely free ways to delight your friends and family as well as your wallet this season.
1. Pen a poem or short story.
If you like to write, this is the perfect time to share your talent
and your feelings with the important people in your life. Take the time
to write down what you like about the recipient or a special memory you
have of him or her, then write it out by hand on a crisp piece of paper.
The recipient will love the extra-personal touch and your gift will be
cherished for years to come.
2. Create a coupon!
Sometimes services-babysitting, dishwashing, a foot massage, closet
organizing, scrapbooking, or anything else that will delight the
recipient-are much more useful and meaningful than objects. So why not
offer your services to the people in your life who would appreciate
them. Just create a coupon for something that someone really wants and
let them know they can redeem it anytime, no questions asked. They'll
appreciate the creativity and thoughtfulness.
3. Make a mix CD.
Yes, it's a little old school (and a blank CD costs a tiny bit of
money), but that's the charm! Making a CD takes time and thought-plus,
there's something cool and retro about giving a mix CD. For an
extra-special touch, use a photo of you with the gift recipient as the
cover. And don't forget to list all the songs on the back!
4. Create a unique photo gift.
Skip the store-bought album and find something you can turn into a
cool frame or album. Paste photos in an old children's book or attach
one to the front of a notebook. Are you a Photoshop wiz? Create a faux
wine bottle label and then glue it to one of your favorite bottles of
wine.
5. Agree to skip gifts.
Many of us already have everything we need and know that it really is
the thought that counts. If that applies to you and your friends, why
not or family suggest skipping the gift exchange altogether and instead
agree to take a holiday walk, go caroling, or have a potluck holiday
celebration? We bet your friends will be just as relieved as you.
6. Commit to volunteering.
The gift of time goes a long way if you pledge to volunteer on others'
behalf in lieu of a present. Promising 10 hours of time at a soup
kitchen or homeless shelter is a huge commitment that your friends and
family-not to mention the people you are helping-will respect and
appreciate. To make sure people know your generosity, send them a card
explaining what you've volunteered for in their name. You might even be
able to recruit others to join you!
7. Suggest a swap.
If you've got a group of fun and adventurous friends, suggest the idea
of swapping things you already own instead of exchanging gifts. Sure,
it's a bit unconventional, but just think how fun it will be to see the
hidden treasures your friends give away! (Plus it's an excuse to get rid
of that figurine you never liked but just can't bring yourself to throw
away!)
More from Kaboodle:
The Best Holiday Gifts Under $25!
Enter the $25,000 Wish-a-Day Giveaway!
Holiday Entertaining Must-Haves
The Most Stylish Outerwear of the Season
Perfect Gifts for Moms and Dads
Cute and Cozy Winter Accessories
Enter for a Chance to Win $500
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