Things You'll Need:
- Preplanning
- cooperation of others
- creativity
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Step 1
Grab bags are a great way to save money on Christmas presents. You must get everyone to cooperate. First, set a price limit on the present. Then everyone picks a name and buys that gift. At work, it is usually done in the department. With family, there are a few ways: Grab bag for adults: Each adult picks another adult family members name. Kids: Each adult picks a child name to buy for. Note: The number of names picked must equal the number of children that person has. For example, if you have 2 kids then you pick 2 names.
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Step 2
Christmas Present Game: Instead of buying for many people or a specific person, a present is brought to put under the tree and labeled Mr. Mrs. or Both. The present is at a set money limit. Then numbers are drawn by each person who brought a gift. The person with #1 goes first. They pick a present from under the tree. They unwrap the present. Player #2 then goes. Player #2 has the option of stealing the present from #1 or taking a chance at the gifts under the tree. Each player has the option of stealing a gift or going for the wrapped gift under the tree. Each gift can only be stolen 3 times and then it is off limits. Also, if someone steals it from you, you cant steal it back on the same turn.
Note: This is a fun way to spend the evening and cost effective--We have done this in my family for years. -
Step 3
White Elephant: Everyone brings a gift from home. You must specify if the gift has to be new (re-gift white elephant) or something used from home (some very crazy items may be wrapped and brought if you do not clarify). Then you play same way as above.
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Step 4
Instead of giving gifts to friends and neighbors, host a party. Have everyone bring a dish or appetizer and play games. On invitation clearly state: No gifts allowed.
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Step 5
You can save money on Christmas presents for the host as well. Instead of everyone brining the host a separate gift, have everyone pitch in and purchase 1 gift. You can be clever and purchase a gift card for the person to where they purchase food for the party to defray costs for next year (if it is same host).
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Step 6
Another way to save money on Christmas presents is to make the present. If you are creative, you may be able to knit sew, paint, scrapbook, etc a present. This make the gift very personal and special.
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Step 7
Lastly, to save money on Christmas presents, you can tell friends or neighbors that this year you would like to not exchange gifts. You will be surprised at how many people are thinking the same thing but are hesitant to make the request.
Comments
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longhairqueen said
on 12/10/2008 Interesting ideas.
sunshine11219 said
on 11/23/2008 good tips
Butterfli said
on 10/25/2008 Great ideas! 5*
woodsusa said
on 10/25/2008 I like your ideas...they are very appropriate for a lot of people this year!