Inexpensive Gift Ideas And Cheap Gifts to Make - circle of health

November 2008 - Vol 3 Issue 11

Inexpensive Gift Ideas
Spreading holiday cheer on the cheap
by Michelle Gibeault Traub, R.D.

Don’t let gift giving drain your wallet. With a little creativity you can give economical gifts that your friends and family will love.

A Few of Your Favorite Things

Julie Andrews sang of raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens as her favorite things – while these might not be so practical for gift giving, you are bound to have a stash of favs that could be shared. My best friend and I have made a tradition of exchanging the everyday items that we love – lip balm, flavored teas, body lotion, and note cards. They aren’t pricey items, but if I love them chances are she will love them too! And, it feels great to share things that are special to each other. What could be better than starting your day with the same cup of tea that your buddy is warming up to as well?

A Recipe For Less Stress

Nothing causes more stress for a busy home maker than the dreaded question, “what’s for dinner?” Give your friends relief by sharing your favorite, tried-and-true recipes. Recipes can be typed into your computer and printed out on pretty card stock or colored paper. You can then package them in a mini photo album or a small tin. Now your friends and their family members will think of you every time they enjoy your favorite recipe for Aunt Pat’s Beans.

Mix It Up!

Putting together a homemade mix or favorite recipe is an economical way to make gifts that can be shared with many different people. And, the homemade touch is always appreciated. Try:

An easy to customize Make Your Own Cocoa Mix.

Bath oils or scrubs – team your favorite essential oils with coarse sea salt or coarse sugar for an all-natural beauty treat.

Candles – buy the wax from your local craft store, melt, and then scent with fragrance oils. Pour the wax into a pretty container, add a wick, let set, and a candle is born.

Remember mix tapes? Give the updated version – a customized CD, or a USB stick loaded with some of your favorite tunes.

Get Practical

Maximize your money spent by giving practical gifts that are sure to be used.

Adora Calcium supplements – what could be better than a chocolate treat that is actually good for bones? Order a 12 pack of Adora Calcium and get a dozen, 30-count bags of premium chocolate calcium supplements. Or, order a case of Adora "On-the-Go" Packs and you’ll get enough 3-packs of Adora Calcium to share with 16 of your closest friends. They also make great stocking stuffers!

Stamps – everyone needs postage for the annual birthday cards and dreaded bills. My husband’s 95-year-old grandmother enjoys sending handwritten cards to friends and family, but waiting in line at the post office is difficult for her. By giving her stamps and note cards we help her keep her hobby going, and we get some pretty specials cards in the mail in return.

Grocery Store Cards – everyone needs to eat. It may not be glamorous, but gift cards from your local supermarket will definitely not collect dust.

Gift Certificate for a Hair Cut – most people get 10-12 hair cuts per year. Giving a gift certificate to your friend or family members’ favorite salon will keep them looking and feeling great.