Holiday shopping seems so straightforward until you start. You have to buy for your kids, family, friends, and a string of acquaintances, including a holiday party grab bag gift. Without a plan, it's easy to mismanage your shopping funds, and inevitably forget someone. We get how busy you are, so here's a cheat-sheet for holiday gift-giving.
Family and Friends These people are always on your list every year. Write down everyone's name and what they want. If you don't know exactly what you're getting them, write down a dollar amount next to their names, so you don't go overboard. When it comes to your kids, get the same number of presents, if your daughter gets just one more than your son, you'll never hear the end of it. (I know from experience!)
"Emergency" Gift Stash Keep a stash of gifts on hand for things like hostess gifts, office grab bags, unexpected dinner guests, and for when you receive a gift that you weren't counting on; try 4-6 gifts in the $25 range. Think of things like candles and picture frames. And don't forget some generic gifts for men, too; a scarf or gloves are always useful, and thoughtful.
Wrap It Up Get your wrap workstation in order, and have everything you need on hand. (Tape, more tape, scissors, ribbon, bags, and boxes.)Use different papers for your family and friends. Maybe one child gets the paper with the snowflakes, the other gets the striped paper. This makes it so much easier to keep track of who gets what. Wrap all the "emergency" gifts in a generic brown, white, or winter-themed gift bags. It gives the gift a longer shelf life-need a small thank-you gift in February, you're all set. It's also suited for anyone.
When you're holiday shopping do you write out a list, or just wing it?
I usually just wing it since we only by for our kids, each other, and teachers.
Quoting bether89:
Most of the time I have a list and buy for only the people on that list.
I dont beleive in emergnecy stash of gifts. If someone gives me a gift and I want to give them something, I will find them something I like. It may not be on Christmas, but it will be within a couple days. I think having stockpiles of "just in case" gifts takes away from the real meaning.
Smarter Celebrations: Quick Easy Fresh Party Food
- Jenn D.
on Dec. 5, 2011 at 12:00 AM