Making a gift-giving plan

originally posted November 2009

I have posted this early for those of you who do your gift preparations sooner rather than later. Although not the reason for the season, gift-giving is an integral part of our society's holiday celebrations. This can cause a major amount of stress if you're not careful. Especially considering the economy, which has probably reduced your holiday budget considerably, now it is more important than ever to

Make a Gift-Giving Plan

This one tip will make the season more enjoyable and relaxing. There are three easy points I recommend following:

• Start with a budget- allotting a certain amount for each person and commit to not going over this amount. This alone helped my stress levels so much, knowing that I could work harder to find a simple gift that would actually have meaning; rather than just buying what seemed like a great gift but was actually just plain pricey.

• Start writing down ideas now- whether you're planning homemade gifts or store-bought. This way, if you find a great deal at the store on something that would make a good gift, you can buy it. Likewise, for homemade gifts you'll have a way to make a timeline so you won't be making everything last minute.

• Start getting a gift area prepared- a place to keep everything organized. I just started this last year, in a desperate attempt to save myself from Christmas Eve-itis. You know, the thing only men are supposed to have- the syndrome where on Christmas Eve (or at 5:30 am on Christmas Day) you're still wrapping gifts. Avoid this at all costs- store/hide all gifts in the same area, and get out all your gift-wrapping paraphernalia and put it there too. Paper, boxes, tape, scissors, ribbons- all in one place, all with your gifts. Doesn't that sound nice?

I am happy to share this at Homemaker Monday, come back tomorrow for more great holidays tips!