From January to December there are many occasions for giving gifts. Some are universal, like Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day. Others are individual and more personal, like a housewarming or graduation. With all these occasions throughout the year, we often find ourselves stumped on what to get that special someone on their special day.
According to the American Research Group, in the last 2 years, shoppers across the country have spent an average of $652.00 on gifts during the holiday season, which is the number one gift-giving holiday of the year. Add to that the next most popular holidays, Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day with an average spend of $126.00 and $152.00, respectively, according to the National Retail Federation. When all other universal and individual gift-giving occasions throughout the year are factored in, that equates to a good percentage of annual household income spent on gifting.
If you need a lower cost gift idea for any occasion throughout the year, consider the following ideas that are unique and memorable and won’t break your bank.
handmade scrapbook – Depending on your level of cunning, this could be an artistic scrapbook or a simple photo album containing special photos on a theme celebrating a relationship, occasion, or time period. Photos from a significant birthday or anniversary, photos from a special trip, or a collection of childhood photos are all great examples. Use a photo album that has room for handwritten captions, and write your own story around the images. Be creative, fun and inspiring. The best gift will make them laugh and cry.
framed photo collection – This is another idea for photos. Pick a handful of memorable photos, print them out, and frame them in various sizes. The idea is to make this a collection that you can hang together on a wall or put together on a table. Frames should be consistent enough to blend together, but they should be in various shapes, sizes, and colors for an interesting presentation. You can choose all of the same color but different shapes, textures, or sizes. Or you can choose different colors and sizes with the same texture and style. In general, 3-6 different photos will make a complete and interesting display.
Collection of small themed gift items – Think about the recipient’s personality or interests and put together a small collection of items around that theme. A book, picture frame, and notepad reflecting a tennis theme is one example. A floral candle, a garden-themed teacup, and a garden-inspired journal would make great gifts for a garden lover. Whatever the theme, choose items that fit your recipient’s personality or lifestyle. Package the collection in a cute gift bag, box or basket, wrap it up and tie it with a cute gift tag and bow for a memorable presentation.
Handmade Gift Certificate Book – Assemble a collection of gift certificates that offer help or time dedicated to your recipient. If you have children, create a certificate that offers a night out while you babysit. Promise to plan a day or a night out together. Offer to help with work around the house or work outside, like planting a garden. Get creative and come up with ideas that fit your relationship with the recipient, as well as their lifestyle and interests. Whether you present one certificate or several is up to you, but this simple gift will have lasting value.
When you’re on a budget, take the time to create these unique and personal gift ideas. They will provide great value and lasting joy at a simpler cost.