It’s that time of year again, folks, and I am determined to make this year stress free when it comes to gift giving. Most of us have a set budget for gifts, so the trick is stretching it to include the people that we work with everyday. Christmas time is one of the happiest seasons of the year but it can also be one of the most difficult times financially. You really want to let people know that you care, but you can only afford so much!
If you are like most people you probably tend to spend more time with your co-workers than your family. Many companies have Secret Santa or gift programs in place for the Christmas party but how do you get something for everyone that you are close to? The good news is that you can get fun unique gifts very affordably.
Cooking Skills
If you are a great cook or have the innate ability to follow a recipe, food is the way to go. The key here to make it extra special is in the presentation. Chances are you have decorative tins hanging around the house but if not they are only a dollar or two at craft stores. You will want to pick up some tissue paper and ribbons as well. Then make a batch of your favorite cookies or famous fudge that everyone loves. Line the tins with colorful tissue paper and wrap the tin with colorful bows.
If cooking isn’t your thing you can turn the tin into a tiny care package with small trinkets like soaps or desk accessories that can be purchased at the dollar store. This is an inexpensive and creative idea that your co-workers will love, only setting you back about $5 a tin so there is enough to go around!

Handmade Bath Soaps
Spa Day
What girl wouldn’t love a basket of spa treats? Buying gift baskets at the store is a pricey way to go, so opt for buying in bulk and at sales to keep on hand for gift giving. For example, Avon has great chapsticks for under 99 cents each, and Bath & Body Works has great semi-annual sales in January and June where you can clean up on $1 soaps and lotions.
If you have a chance to plan ahead and stock up during the year this is the way to go. Another great idea is to buy plain Epsom salts then add essential oils to them like lavender and rosemary. Put the salts in a mason jar with some tissue paper on top, tie a ribbon around it and voila you have inexpensive bath salts!
Coffee Lover
Coffee is a mainstay of the workplace, so make a creative gift out of something you know they will love. Gift cards are a great way to go as it is always a crowd pleaser and gives each recipient the time to spend it at their leisure. Give them a five or ten dollar gift card to their favorite coffee spot. You can find deals on bulk online or even at club discount stores that can save you anywhere from 30 to 50%! Try a site like giftcardgranny.com that allows you to buy discounted cards from vendors or other shoppers.
Taking the time to do some research can really save money, and you’ll still be able to get those that you work with an awesome creative gift! Whether you are giving food or more tangible items, putting a personal touch into everything will really impress them. No matter what you get for them, by using pretty wrapping or a homemade gift bag, putting a personal touch on it will make it a Christmas to remember.
UK resident Mary Blanchard shares her advice on deal shopping and couponing for deal shoppers everywhere. Find out why she recommends discounts on Coupon Croc as her first stop shop.

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