This year feels different to me—maybe its because of the high prices and our increased awareness of price gouging, the sense that incomes haven’t kept pace, that many people in my circle are job-hunting, or that we’ve (collectively) finally realized we have more stuff than we can handle.  

If you’re pulled to spend and give gifts this season, here are lots of ideas for keeping spending and gifting affordable and thoughtful. 

Budget & Brainstorm

Doing a little prep work will help you approach the gifting season with more intention and a plan. 

• Find a moment to Pause. Breathe deeply. Take a mindful moment for yourself and calm your nervous system. Then…

• Look at your financial situation. How much can you reasonably afford to spend? Decide on a budget to cover gifts, decor, food, travel, etc.

• Brainstorm a list of people to buy for, gift ideas, and spending limit. Prioritize certain people or events, as necessary.

• Think about which friend or family groups might be better for Secret Santa or pooling money into 1 bigger meaningful gift instead of buying individually. Start those conversations now, if you haven’t already. 

• Research if there are makers markets or certain types of businesses (local, women-owned or owned by people of color) that align with your values that you prefer to support. 

  • For eco-friendly clothing, I always check GoodOnYou.eco for the most environmentally- and worker-friendly options.

Don’t Get Caught in the Frenzy

When it seems the whole world is spending like crazy for a month straight, it can be hard to pull back. But, you can. And, you got this! 💪

• Consider the love language of your intended recipients - would certain people prefer experiences, a charitable donation, quality time together, or an act of service…?

• In fact, the holidays don’t need to be all about stuff. Homemade or memory-based gifts may be more cherished and welcome. For example, a handmade spice blend, hot chocolate mix jar, baked goods, or infused oils. Perhaps a gratitude letter, a praise jar, or a memory book or slideshow for the person who has everything.

• Keep track of spending with a budgeting app like YNAB or Copilot.

• Remember, a “deal” isn’t a deal if no one needs it or would want it. 

• Avoid rush times at the store to minimize competition and impulse buying.

• Free shipping isn’t free if it makes you spend more.

• Stick to your list.

• If you tend to overspend when you go to the store or mall, take out cash equivalent to your budget for that destination. Then, leave the cards at home and when the cash runs out, that’s it. 

• For white elephant and host(ess) gifts, consider a low-cost gag gift or something you already have on hand like a bottle of wine, a plate of cookies, or re-gift something that doesn’t suit you. 

Spend Later, or Never

Our consumerist society and economy tell us the only way to show love and worth is by buying things. But that’s not helpful for the planet, and it might not work for you or your wallet. And, remember, that’s OK.

• Leave the site when checking out with online shopping carts. After 1-3 days, you may receive a discount code incentivizing you to purchase, or in that time, you may realize that stuff isn’t really necessary. 

• Delay spending on people you won’t see until after the holidays. You can look for discounts after the season and move the spending out of November and December, which may be easier on your budget. 

• Create and gift your own coupon or gift certificate. This allows you to spread out your spending or find a better deal or better gift idea later. Or, better yet, make the gift certificate for services you can offer such as a home-cooked meal or babysitting, or an experience you & the recipient would share together.

• Discuss the possibility of skipping gifts and instead choosing a quality-time activity or plan a get together. 

Remember, it’s not about how much you spend, its about showing you care, and your love and gratitude for having that person in your life. 

Leave a comment below: which of these ideas most resonated with you? Or, share any gifting tips you have!