With the economy in a slump, people are spending less and looking for inexpensive gifts this holiday season. In 2007, the average amount spent throughout the Christmas season was $859. The following year in 2008, holiday spending plummeted to just $431. American Research Group Inc. predicts average spending will decrease 3 percent from last year. Fortunately, there are many unique and inexpensive Christmas gift ideas able to assist our slimming wallets.
Listing low-cost gift ideas, many internet sites provide shoppers with cheaper alternatives. For example, some of http://www.betterbudgeting.com’s suggestions include homemade cookies, special coffee cups filled with candy, board games, or Christmas ornaments. Other sites, like http://www.giftinajarrecipes.com offer recipes advising which ingredients to pack in your glass jar gift. Recipes like amaretto cocoa, California cornbread, chewy brownie mix, almond bark and cinnamon chocolate chip muffin mix make great gifts. If, however, your gift recipient prefers a more practical gift, http://www.thefrugalshopper.com recommends homemade gift baskets. One of their suggestions, the sports-themed basket where tees, balls, towels and gift certificates fill the assortment, is a clever and genuine gift for the sports lover.
For those who are indeed penniless this Christmas, homemade holiday coupons are clever and still thoughtful redeemable tokens. Exchangeable for “a day of snuggling in front of the t.v.,” “an evening of dancing,” or “breakfast in bed” these gifts are easy on the pocket and fun. You can also skip the coupons and offer up your time and service to a friend or family member. Any skill like shoveling a driveway, walking dogs or babysitting can be offered as a gift. Handy work around the house would be a remarkably favorable gesture for many on your Christmas list.
Spending themselves into debt, many will find it difficult to keep their Christmas cheer this holiday season. The overwhelming love and joy experienced when acts of kindness are unselfishly offered are what truly make the season special. Bear in mind, whatever you do to bring happiness to your friends or family during the holiday season is indeed a worthy gift.