Christmas is approaching fast, and everyone is running around trying to get the perfect gift. But what if we told you, stop wasting your time! That’s right, there are new rules for gift giving and these rules keep you out of the store and money in your pocket. For gift ideas ➫

GOING GREEN: With everyone being more environmentally conscious these days, going green seems like a sure bet for the holidays.

1. Shop for recycled gift cards, wrapping paper, bows and tags. Or go for something reusable and encourage its use again next year.
2. Give a gift that keeps on giving, like a house flower or even plant a tree. It’s a gift that will last long after the holidays are over.
3. Donate what you would spend in gifts to a charity or a “Go Green” cause.  Try to encourage your family members and make it a group contribution.

GET WHAT PEOPLE WANT: Did you know that 40% of people out there will return at least one gift to the store after Christmas?  Don’t let that be yours. Instead, get your friend or loved one exactly what they want.

1. Avoid the cliche gifts. Yes, Bath and Body Works is simple and of course the ever trusty hat and gloves set is a no-brainer, but is it really what your loved one wants? If you’re just picking up items to check people off of your list, it’s likely that you’re going to end up spending money on something that is not appreciated or used. Instead, shop smart. Ask your loved one exactly what they want and try to oblige. If you can’t, get them a smaller version or something very, VERY similar.
2. If you’re not sure what to get, go for the gift card. Gift cards are an easy way to give the special person in your life the power to buy exactly what they want to buy. It’s especially great for that extra picky friend or the boyfriend who seems to have it all.
3. Be sure to shop around for the right gift card.  Some gift cards can be used in a variety of stores, others can be used in entire malls. Some have service charges too so be sure to do your research.

SCALE BACK: The recession has everyone saving their money, and that is not a bad thing. After all, sometimes we forget the real reason for the season when we are running in and out of stores for the entire month. Check out these creative ways to give back while keeping some green in your pocket.

1. Secret Santa – Instead of exchanging gifts with EVERYONE in the family, adopt the Secret Santa strategy.  Family members choose ONE person to exchange a gift with and everyone agrees on a limit. That way you only have to buy one gift but everyone still receives something.
2. Be creative and make your own gift – There is nothing more special than a unique, hand made gift.  If you’re an artist or musician, create a piece of work for that special someone. Even if you’re not the most creative… it’s the time and energy that counts. Make a great mix CD or a photo holder, trust us… they’ll love it!
3. Give back to others – Instead of exchanging gifts, invite your family to give back to others by volunteering at a soup kitchen or other community program for the day.  You will be surprised how rewarding it is and how it brings your loved ones together.

Tags: Christmas, Gift Cards, Gifts, Giving, Going Green, Holidays, Rules, Shopping, Teens

This entry was posted on Saturday, December 19th, 2009 at 4:26 pm and is filed under Bulletin Board. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.