When it comes to giving presents, sometimes less can really be more.
A little creativity can lead to great gifts your family will remember without the hefty price.
Think of gifts from the heart and activities involving the ones you love. Faith Hall from the Warren Pat Catan's store said, "You want to do more than just hand out a package. You want to create moments. And with the cooking, the baking, the gathering around with the gifts and the games, it helps to create those moments for the holiday season."
Time is perhaps our most special gift. Consider giving yours. Get creative. Help others with household chores or offer a massage, promise to watch the kids for your spouse. Make certificates for your loved ones. Or how about picking up some junk trophies from a thrift store and give out family awards.
Crafts stores are another place you can find great gifts to engage your children. "Teaching is a great way of reaching someone," said Faith Hall from Pat Catan's. "Giving the gift of a craft is a great way that teaches and reaches children and it stays with them for a lifetime."
Think puzzles to help with learning skills and hand coordination. Hall said you can find plenty for teens, too. "We carry photo canvas, photo tennis shoes. Things you can embellish with gems and jewels to create their own unique style."
For grandma and grandpa, how about taking your own photographs and making a calendar for them? Then add captions for each month to personalize it.
If times are really tough, instead of buying everyone in the family a gift, consider exchanging names for gift giving.
The same goes for friends. After all, they're probably feeling the pinch too.
