Counting Pennies

The less you plan for a gift, the more likely you are to hit the mall at the last minute and overspend on a gift that may not even be that great. Nothing says

“last minute” like a random gift bought at the pharmacy or the mall without taking into consideration the taste or preferences of the receiver. By planning in advance, not only will you end up spending less, but you’re also more likely to make the receiver happier.

Here are some other tips on spending less and still impressing others:

• Buy theater tickets or movie passes for those people who seem to have it all. Both are often available online at a discount.
• Buy online, especially if you find “free shipping” offers available. This cuts the temptation of buying other items you see at the store and you also the advantage of being able to compare prices, all at the click of a button.
• Tie the wrapping to the gift. If you’re giving kitchen utensils, put them in a large glass container (remove the lid if necessary) or a cookie jar. Put beach-themed items into an inexpensive plastic pail and wrap a cookbook with a nice dishtowel.
• Play sales all year. Ideally, you should be stocking up on gifts every time you find an especially good deal on something. The best items to buy are those that can work for almost anybody, such as candles, bath sets or a nice scarf. For kids, classic games and toys are best, as the ones that are popular today may not be so a month from now.
• Give your time if you truly can’t afford to buy a gift. Shovel snow, mow the grass or offer to cook for a busy mom. If you have a particular skill, donate your time. For example, you could give free piano lessons as a gift, or offer help with the Spanish homework of a friend.

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