Meaningful Christmas Gifts That Don’t Break The Bank

As the holidays roll in, so do the bills. Deciding what gifts seem financially feasible while maintaining monthly responsibilities doesn’t have to be a hassle. By thinking creatively, thoughtfully, and intentionally, you can gift your loved ones with something they’ll cherish.

With the gift ideas below, you’ll save Christmas and money.

There’s nothing like a handwritten letter. If you’re strapped for cash, pull out some notebook paper, copy paper, or a blank or personalized Christmas card and an ink pen and let your heart pour out. This is something I did last year for gifts to my family as I wasn’t financially able to give out gifts like I wanted. However, it was a hit! Everyone loved the personalized touch that a card specifically for them presented. 

Get creative and bring up your favorite memory together, an inside joke, or something you admire the most about them. It’s something they can look back on throughout the year, and on a bad day could lift their spirits.

You can order beautifully decorated and affordable cards in bulk on Temu, Shein, and Walmart.

Although everything is digital now, a physical copy of a memorable moment is priceless. You can either purchase a frame as is, or elevate the look by buying accessories to add to the frame at the dollar store. This can be a great stress reliever as you’re doing a fun crafty activity.

Another option is to create a photo book online. Places like Printerpix, Shutterfly, Mixbook, and Snapfix offer affordable prices on custom soft and hard cover photobooks ranging from 8×8 to 12×12. Gather all of your favorite pictures and personalize a photobook for your loved ones. They’ll love the effort and creativity you put into it.

Did you know that Thriftmas is a thing? Thriftmas takes the negative stigma of “used clothing” and gives new meaning to second hand clothing, by giving them a “second chance” with someone else.

The thrift store doesn’t just offer second hand clothes, it offers pieces that you won’t see everyone else wearing. You can find vintage pieces in great condition at thrift stores, and the best part is you won’t pay half of what it’s worth. 

My late grandmother used to thrift and I began in adulthood, paying homage to her; I was surprised that I’d find brand new clothes with tags still on them.

Research your closest thrift store, and you may be able to find high fashion clothes, purses, shoes, and sometimes jewelry for incredible prices. 

When in doubt, make it homemade. There are a variety of kits available when it comes to Christmas desserts. From the likes of a gingerbread man house, ugly sweater cookie, the variations are limitless. However, you can make a gift more personalized by incorporating things that you know your friends/family enjoy.

Doing a DIY/Homemade hot chocolate bomb with Hershey’s and marshmellows, or switching things up by adding Biscoff cookies, or Oreos can be a great gift and treat. You can start by getting the example from the original hot chocolate, but adding a spin on it makes all the difference.

Think of a message in a bottle, only you’re gifting it directly to the person you want to send it to. Affirmations are not only joyous but endorphin-driven. When you read a great affirmation that resonates, it makes your day better, lifts your spirits, and takes away anything trying to bring you down.

Make someone’s day by writing small validating words of encouragement on color sheets of paper. Fold each sheet and place them into a clear glass bottle. Be sure to fill the bottle completely. 

Get creative.You can paint/decorate the bottle or leave it as is; Add ribbon, stickers, and other accessories as you wish. These affirmations will be designed to be a little gift every time the giftee opens the bottle, so make it sweet and heartfelt.