Budgeting for Gifts: 3 Tips for Smarter Giving

My husband and I seem to be recovering financially from Christmas. We were more than reimbursed by the wonderful gifts from our family and friends in the form of clothing, movies, etc. But our bank account remains a little parched.

It’s a little difficult to remember to put gifts as a category into the budget. Families are constantly growing so the number of birthdays increases as does the gifting budget. Buying gifts is a beautiful thing and it really shouldn’t be a financial burden. So how do you make it so?

Well, gift giving seems to be an increasingly difficult art to perfect. Everyone has access to almost everything now. Not only is it difficult to buy a nice gift and stay within budget, but it’s difficult to buy gifts that will be liked. Keep fighting for that look of delight on your loved one’s face by giving to them! Here are some smarter giving tips that will help you stay within budget while getting something they are sure to love.

3 Smarter Giving Tips

1. Listen.

If you’re around the person you’re buying for a lot then listen for tips as to what he or she has been wanting. Sure, you won’t really surprise them, but a gift they genuinely want and will use will be appreciated.

If what he or she is wanting is way out of budget, don’t sweat it! Look for a cheaper alternative or follow the other tips. An inexpensive one-of-a-kind gift is the kind of gift everyone wants to give, right?

2. Make it.

I’m not talking about finger painting a turkey. I’m talking about putting a personal touch on your gift; magnify your skills. Can you sew? Make the birthday girl a purse, wallet, or headband. Are you good at graphic design? Design an edgy print for the birthday guy to hang on the wall. They will think of you every time they look at it because it has your stamp on it.

3. Search the web.

But please, not Amazon or eBay! Check out sites like Modcloth and Etsy for homemade items of all categories. These two sites are the perfect places to look for that person that seems to have everything.

There are price range icons according to your budget and shipping costs are very reasonable. The sellers at these sites are talented people so don’t feel bad if you’re not crafty yourself! There’s a plethora of vintage-style jewelry and homemade fashion at your fingertips! And for guys? How about some custom made cell phone cases or cool tees?

Oh, by the way, don’t forget to save your gift bags and tissue paper! It’ll save you money and a trip to the store!

Should I Really Give?

If it’s an especially tight month and you just don’t think you can afford a birthday gift for someone, that’s a difficult situation. I strongly believe, however, that you should find a way to buy one anyway.

The Bible mentions the word “give” more than 1,400 times. Remember the widow who gave away her last copper coins in Matthew 12 and Luke 21? We should be willing to give past our own means. Our willingness to give to others demonstrates our love for Christ. There are so many things we can learn about giving.

How do you choose to give? Meet us in the comments and let us know how you budget for gifts - and let us in on your giving tips!