Gift-giving during the holidays can be fun, but can also leave your wallet feeling empty. This list includes gift ideas that are fun, unique and less expensive than most on the market. Some are sale or clearance items, others are homemade. Regardless of where they came from, each of these gifts is sure to bring the holiday spirit to everyone on your list.
Assorted Beaded Bracelets: These colorful, multi-strand bracelets from Pier 1 Imports are the perfect $1 accessory to brighten up any ensemble.
Handmade Christmas Ornaments: Put your artistic skills to good use by painting ornaments in fun and unique patterns. Add an extra special touch by personalizing each one. This holiday craft also can be enjoyed as a group activity with family and friends.
Baked Goods with the Recipe Included: Everyone loves holiday goodies, especially the edible kind. By including the recipe, friends and loved ones can enjoy their treat many times over. Try Martha Stewart’s Banana Bourbon Layer Cake.
Mixed CD: Family and friends can enjoy their favorite songs on a personalized mixed CD. Decorate the CD label and jewel case for added flair. Give the gift greater meaning by including a heartfelt message.
Discount DVDs: The movie aisle at Target is full of low prices. Try collections like “4 Action Films in 1! Deadly Assassins,” which includes the films “The Contract,” “24 Hours in London,” “Crime Spree” and “Stiletto” for $14.89.
Coffee Gift Card: Many coffee houses, such as Starbucks, Caribou Coffee and local establishments, sell gift cards for the caffeine enthusiast. With a gift card, customers can spend what they want, whenever they want, and enjoy a tasty treat.
Personalized NFL Travel Mug: Holiday gifts for guys can be difficult to find, but this sports-themed mug is practical and fun. This mug sells for $14.99 at Things Remembered.
Marvel Glass Tumbler Set: Comic book lovers can enjoy their heroes with a set of four tumblers featuring iconic Marvel characters the Hulk, Wolverine, Spider-man and Captain America.
Mix Tape USB Drive: Throwback to the 80s with a USB drive that looks like an old cassette tape. Save important files or make a fun “mixed tape” for a friend. This memory stick holds 64 MB or one hour of high quality digital music — the same as a C60 cassette tape!
Clearance Aisles: Stores like TJ Maxx, Marshall’s and even Barnes and Noble have aisles full of discounted items. Digging through the racks is a fun and adventurous way to find the perfect gift at a lower price.
Wherever you shop for friends and loved ones this holiday season, keep in mind that the perfect gift is always the one that is thoughtful and heartfelt. Happy shopping!