Finding perfect holiday gifts on a budget

[Parenting NH Administrator]

From family and friends to your children’s teachers and coaches, finding the perfect present for everyone on your list can be a daunting and time consuming task. But with a little creativity and making sure you start planning early, you can find a great gift without breaking your budget.

 

Choosing the Perfect Gift
Are you wondering what the key is to finding the perfect present? The answer is taking time to consider what your loved one most cherishes. Do they favor a specific hobby? How do they spend their free time? If you’re picking a gift for someone you might not know well, such as your child’s teacher or school nurse, consider giving them something to help them unwind and relax. Here are some ideas to get you started:

 

For teachers, school nurses and coaches
The role models in your child’s life are often the people that would benefit most from a pampering present. Help them indulge in some relaxation by packaging up a basket of spa-inspired items. Moisturizing beauty products with seasonal scents will keep skin smooth and glowing throughout the season’s festivities and conjure up images of favorite winter memories. Bundle with a lush loofah, mini manicure and pedicure kit, facial mask and lotion for a basket filled with items that will give them the opportunity to treat themselves to a little “me” time. Homemade treats and photo collages are also great gift options.

 

For cooking and baking enthusiasts
For your favorite foodie or cook, consider giving some fun and affordable kitchen tools, such as gingerbread or reindeer cookie cutters. If your loved one is known for their savory cuisine, consider purchasing an assortment of spices (or a spice rack) to add to their favorite dishes. Likewise, a new cookbook will help inspire creativity in the kitchen and add a dash of excitement to their regular recipe routine. You can find great, inexpensive cook books in used book stores, at Barnes and Noble and on Amazon.com.

 

For travel lovers
For those on your list who love to hit the road and explore new territories, consider gifts that will make their travel easier and less stressful. Passport covers, camera accessories, travel journals, or a mini alarm clock are all great options that won’t break the bank and are sure to be used. You can also give them items that will remind them of their past adventures. Put together a gift basket of exotic chocolates and shelf-safe foods to remind them of their favorite flavors from abroad. Or you can remind them of one of the best parts of travel – the feeling of relaxation and getting away. Combine with a selection of personal care products, such as facial masks and moisturizers to help them transform their bathroom into a mini-vacation abroad.

 

For the kiddos
When purchasing gifts for very young children, look for brightly colored toys that play music or offer an interactive element. Stuffed animals, baby blankets and clothing are great options as well. Many kids only play with toys for a limited so don't forget about stopping by your local Dollar Store and stocking up on inexpensive toys, coloring books and stickers.

 

For adolescents, teens and in-be-tweens
It’s hard to stay on top of the trends most pre-teens and teenagers are in tune with. Instead, opt for something you know they’ll enjoy. Consider giving a gift certificate to a movie theater or popular store where they can purchase electronics, clothing or sporting equipment. If you opt the the movie theater gift card, consider making a gift basket and filling it with popcorn, candy, and other favorite theater snacks. If you have your heart set on a tangible present, remember to request a gift receipt, just in case