Landmark Bancorp Inc.
11/13/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 11/13/2024 18:03
Gift Giving on a Budget This Holiday Season
Gift Giving on a Budget: Meaningful Christmas Presents Without Breaking the Bank
The holidays are all about giving, as we take a moment at the end of each year to pause and show gratitude for our loved ones in the form of thoughtful gifts.
While everyone enjoys the feeling of watching a family member or friend open their present with wide eyes, checking your financial statements after the Christmas season may make you feel like a bit of a Scrooge.
Thankfully, there are ways you can give gifts on a budget without having to stress financially. Landmark National Bank has put together this helpful affordable Christmas gift guide of holiday shopping tipsand budget-friendly gift ideas. We'll give you advice for giving meaningful presents on a budget and provide some inexpensive gift ideas like DIY holiday gifts.
How Much To Spend When Gift Giving on a Budget
The first step when gift giving on a budget is clearly establishing how much you're comfortable spending. Deciding the amount you should spenddepends on several factors-your income, the size of your family, and how many gifts you plan to give.
Start by writing down a number you'd be able to afford, then break it down by recipient or gift category. Consider allocating slightly more for immediate family members like your partner or kids, while setting a modest amount for extended family or friends. Being intentional about these numbers can help you stay on track and prevent overspending.
When To Shop for Affordable Christmas Gifts
Timing is one of the most important things when it comes to gift giving on a budget. The holiday shopping season starts well before December, and taking advantage of early sales can help you stretch your budget further. Here are some key moments to target holiday gift savings:
- Black Friday and Cyber Monday.These unofficial holidays offer significant discounts ranging from electronics to fashion. Keep an eye out for specific deals in the weeks leading up, as some sales may start early or even extend into December.
- Amazon Prime Day.Taking place each October, Prime Day offers exclusive deals on Amazon. This is a particularly useful time to stock up on gifts like books, gadgets, and home goods at competitive prices.
- End-of-season sales.Retailers often offer discounts on items toward the end of each season. Shopping for cheap but thoughtful gifts during these times can help you pick things up for a fraction of their usual price.
Best Stores for Holiday Gift Savings
Finding affordable holiday gifts isn't always about going to a specific store, but rather knowing the types of stores that offer the best deals. When you know where to shop, you can provide meaningful presents on a budget for your loved ones.
Big box retailers, for instance, usually offer frequent sales on everything from electronics to toys. Outlet stores are another great option where you can find brand-name items at heavily discounted prices-particularly clothes and accessories. Online retailers often provide exclusive web-only deals and special discounts, but make sure to order in time to account for shipping.
Find Meaningful Presents on a Budget
You don't have to make a dent in your bank account to create a magical Christmas for your loved ones. Gift giving on a budget can even be easy when you think creatively. Keep reading for ideas for some cheap but thoughtful gifts you can give.
DIY Holiday Gifts You Can Make
Creating DIY holiday gifts is a wonderful way to make gift giving on a budget feel special. Here are some simple affordable Christmas gift ideas:
- Handcrafted candles or soaps.With a few simple ingredients, you can create customized scents and colors, creating a unique gifting experience.
- Baked goods.Homemade treats like cookies, cakes, and brownies are inexpensive yet appreciated gifts that anyone can appreciate during the holiday season.
- Knitted accessories.If you're crafty, consider making scarves, hats, or mittens. These cozy gifts are super meaningful presents on a budget you can give to show you care.
Thrift for Inexpensive Gift Ideas
Local thrift stores and online marketplacesare treasure troves for unique and budget-friendly gifts. Vintage jewelry, one-of-a-kind home decor, and gently used books are just a few items that can make thoughtful presents. Shopping secondhand also lets you stretch your budget further, as it's an eco-friendly choice that aligns with a more sustainable holiday season. Plus, you never know what hidden gems you might find, making thrift shopping both fun and affordable!
Personalized Gifts on a Budget
Giving personalized gifts on a budget shows that you've put thought into the person's interests and tastes. Plus, many items can be personalized without a high price tag. Consider custom photo calendars, which can be made for cheap with online templates, or custom mugs featuring a meaningful quote or funny photo of you together. Even adding small, personalized touches to store-bought gifts can make a lasting impact, showing the recipient that you went the extra mile.
Track Expenses and More Holiday Shopping Tips
Staying organized while gift giving on a budget can help you avoid overspending. Here are a few holiday shopping tips to ensure you're able to find affordable Christmas gifts with no issues:
- Stick to your budget.Set a number for each person and don't exceed that amount.
- Track each purchase.Update a spreadsheet or use a budgeting app to stay on track.
- Try to save money.Shop around to find options with free shipping, discounts, and more.
- Limit impulse buys.Follow a detailed shopping list made of your affordable holiday gifts.
Seek Expert Insights From Landmark National Bank
Whether you're budgeting for the holiday gift giving season or planning your finances for the new year, you can count on Landmark National Bank as your trusted financial resource. We've provided Kansans with over 100 years of friendly customer service and expert banking services for everything from online bankingto the home-buying process.
Contact us at Landmark National Bankor find a bank branch location near youtoday and put yourself on the path toward your financial goals!