It is that time of the year again. You have little cash and want to get everyone in your life something as special as they are.
There are two basic categories of gifts: the expensive ones and the inexpensive ones. How do you determine what gifts to get for others?
The first step is admitting to yourself that you are in college, and as much as you would like to get your best friend the new Michael Kors watch, it is just not in your budget. Gather a list of all the people you want to give presents to and go from there. Whether it is a $5 gift or a $30 gift, if they love you they really do not care about the price.
A lot of magazines have a variety of gift guides, but they are aimed towards people who have a six-figure income. We know this because the presents are $200 or more. Let’s get real.
Gifts are meant to be personal. I know this because of the different reactions people give off. For instance, when a person opens up a sentimental gift, they cry; when they open up a materialistic gift, they just flash a devilish smile and say, “cool.” Both presents can make that person happy, but which one will be remembered?
Making a DIY gift takes so much more effort than going to a store and picking one out. Here are a couple easy gifts you can make for friends and family:
DIY chalkboard
All you need is a picture frame without the glass and chalk paint. A picture frame with a nice vintage design to it is ideal, but a plain one can work as well. The size of the picture frame is important. A 5-by-7 will not work, but more of an 8-by-10.
Once you have found the perfect frame you can then spray the backboard with the chalk paint.
It’s that easy! Make sure you include a box of chalk with your gift. You can even write out a sweet message before you wrap it.
Feelings in Frames
Write out a poem or a letter that expresses a memory or feeling toward the person. When you are finished, put it in a nice, small picture frame. Ikea and Target are great stores to find cheap quality frames. Decorate the frame yourself. You can paint it, add appliqués—anything that reminds you of that person. Scrapbooks are a good alternative to this idea.
When you break it down it is all about making the other person feel good and showing them how much you care about them. If that means buying the expensive watch, buy it; but in the long run, it is those thoughtful gifts that will matter and be remembered. Happy holidays, fellow gifters!
