Avoid Debt With Holiday Gift Giving This Season

The holidays may be months away, but it’s not too early to start budgeting – if you want to stay out of debt. Even in the fall, too many people are still paying off bills or recovering from last winter’s holiday gift giving season.

If you’re among those who prefer not to spend your time thinking about bills, now’s a good time of year to give yourself a present – by planning ahead so you’ll stay out of debt during the upcoming holiday season.

Take the time to find something that is perfectly suited to your recipient’s interests, personality and style. These tips can get your thinking on the right track:

âÂ?¢ Does he or she have a special hobby or interest? Add to an antique lover’s collection with a vintage vase filled with flowers (a florist can create the perfect arrangement to complement the vase).
� Would he or she prefer a quiet and romantic celebration? Try tickets-for-two to a special event. Send a dinner invitation delivered to his or her door in a bouquet of flowers.
� Does he or she deserve some special pampering? Ask your florist to help you create a special spa kit in a basket with goodies like bath beads and oils on one side and a beautiful arrangement of flowers on the other.

You must always sit and think about the person you will be giving to. If you know your aunt’s birthday is coming up and for as long as you can remember she has been very involved with crafts, don’t buy her a sweater that she may never wear, make her a craft basket. Or if you’re not sure exactly what kind of crafts she’s doing lately, give her the old standby-a gift certificate to a craft store. Nothing says thoughtful like something that makes the recipient aware that you really had them in mind when you picked it out.

Suggest to your children that they create gifts for their grandparents, aunts and uncles. It could be something as simple as a drawing or a more elaborate arts and crafts project from summer camp. Hand-knit sweaters, hand-painted pottery and handcrafted cards also are options. Remember to start your handmade projects now so you aren’t up until all hours trying to complete your gift the night before the holiday.