With only 34 sleeps until Christmas, our thoughts are turning towards ways of easing the financial pressure over the holiday period. What about gifts that cost little - except time and planning? Here are some ideas.
Canny Scot from Christchurch says: "Last year I made pickles and chutney and made
nice home-made labels for them on my computer. I wrapped each jar in a bright red or green new tea towel and tied them with ribbon. My friends seemed well pleased with them and if you make a few extra they come in handy for gifts for people who visit around Christmas (recycle the jars, of course). These can be made in advance and take a lot of stress out of Xmas."
M.G. from Hastings says: "Our wider family got together and decided to limit Christmas gifts to a few dollars a person. That way, nobody is too disappointed when they don't get anything flash. So what can you give for a few dollars? Photos with a message printed across them, from digital machines; photo frames, bought or home-made; plants grown from seed or cuttings; and home-made biscuits, cakes, drinks, etc."
Check out the number of credits you have on your reward cards, like Fly Buys. Redeem your points for product or vouchers and use them as gifts. This is a great way to save cash and for some, it's like being a member of a Christmas Club.
Give a tree. There are many gardens with self-sown native trees that can be replanted without difficulty.
