How to Save Money on Holiday Gifts - "Give Like the Olden Days"

You don't need me to tell you that gift giving has gotten out of hand. You already know it. Each birthday and holiday, you're spending more so you can top the previous year. Why? Gift inflation. Gift inflation is defined as an annual increase in the cost of gifts, not at all directly related to your financial position. At this rate, in ten years, your gifts will cost the equivalent of a week's salary or more. So what's the answer? Think back, way back, to before you were born to the "olden days". The "olden days" were a simpler time-a time when everyone only had one shirt and one pair of pants or skirt, but they kept them clean and well-mended. When people in the "olden days" gave gifts, they didn't put themselves in debt. And, no one expected anyone to spend more than they had. So this year, model your gift giving after the "olden days". Here are some simple suggestions to simplify and personalize your gift giving this year:

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• A little time
• A little imagination
• Maybe a needle and thread, glue and scissors
• A lot less money

1. Buy an old piece of furniture and fix it up. Don't limit yourself to refinishing furniture either, consider looking for a unique lamp, painting it, and adding a new shade. Or, pick up an old cabinet, paint it flat black, and change the hardware to platinum (looks like you bought it at Pottery Barn, doesn't it?)
2. Buy used books. Then, wrap them in brown paper and twine. Not only is this idea environmentally friendly, but it's also fun. Take some time to find a beautiful coffee table book on a favorite topic or pick up a cookbook for the newlyweds.
3. Buy a bottle of wine and then sew a customized wine bag. This costs a little bit of money, but your friend of family member will love that you took the time to select the perfect vintage and sew the wrapping paper. To sew a customized wine bag, pick up some velvet or drapery remnants and some ribbon at the fabric shop. (Check out these simple instructions www.pacificfabrics.com/PDF/Easy_Wine_Bag.pdf)
4. Make a special dinner for your sweetheart. Buy all the groceries, cook the dinner, and create a mood with candles and music. Give him/her a card during dinner that says how much you love and appreciate them. (Then, do all the dishes while you draw him/her a bubble bath.) This option is a personal favorite.
5. Take a picture that your friend or family member would love and never expect and then frame it. (For example, a picture of your dog in front of a bar with the same name. Or, a picture of the restaurant where you had your first date with you in front of the sign holding a rose.)