As we all know, as soon as November 1st comes around, people get their Christmas trees ready and their holiday shopping on. Many of us are looking to save money while still getting amazing gifts for our friends and family. This article will hopefully give you inspiration for affordable but thoughtful gifts.

1. Gift-Basket

A gift basket is a great budget-friendly option. The recipient gets multiple small but enjoyable gifts in one, and it definitely shows that you actually put thought into it when you select things tailored to the recipient. 

• The basket: Either a cute bag, or some sort of basket / container that may be reused as its own gift.
• The contents: Include 3-5 different items that the recipient would enjoy. Aim for 1-2 bigger items, and the rest smaller and used as fillers.
• Snacks are always a hit! You might include 1-2 snacks that they may enjoy. Candy, chips, packaged goods, or holiday treats are great options for festive and affordable fillers for your basket.
• Wrapping paper / basket decor: Adding wrapping paper to line the inside of your gift-basket can fill excess space while making it appear less empty. Decor such as ribbons and sparkles can also give it a more polished look.
• A special note : Finally, tying everything together with a thoughtful note or card for the recipient can make this gift even more special.

2. Hot-Cocoa Bomb

A pre-made hot cocoa bomb is a very simple, budget-friendly gift. All you have to purchase is the packaged ingredients to make hot chocolate, and something to contain your hot-cocoa bombs. By buying the packaged ingredients, you will most likely be able to create many of these pre-made treats which can definitely help with budgeting. This can be used as a stocking stuffer, a filler, or just a small gift that many will enjoy.

• First, purchase your ingredients: Hot chocolate mix, mini marshmallows, and chocolate chips or chocolate bars (for the mold).

*You will need a half circle mold, and some patience* 

• Next, get a good amount of your chocolate chips or bars into the microwave and melt them. (You can find additional info on google). 

• Grab your half circle mold and pour the chocolate into each half circle. Make sure that there is a coated layer, but make sure there isn’t any excess chocolate liquid. 
• Stick your molds in the freezer until the chocolate hardens.
• Take your molds out of the freezer, and get your hot chocolate powder or mix ready. Pop your chocolate, half circles out of their mold and scoop a desired amount of mix into one half of the chocolate circles. In those same half circles, add a couple mini marshmallows for a special touch.
• For the next part, you will need a bit of heat. Take one of your half circles with hot chocolate powder and marshmallows in it, and one that is empty. Stick them together and use heat to seal them. 
• Put your finished chocolate bombs onto parchment paper, and stick them back into the freezer to cool.
• Once frozen solid, remove from the freezer and package how you’d like!

Now, for these first two gift ideas, I went extra into depth to give you a sense of how to make them pretty, creative, and personal. Below is a list of a few more budget-friendly holiday gift ideas, and you can run with your own creativity to make them special!

3. Photo Album or Memory Book

• Compile a good amount of photos, receipts from activities you did together, stickers, or anything you can think of to add a special individual touch.

4. Mystery Treats Box

• A box of this person’s favorite candy or snacks to enjoy.

5. Handpainted Mug, Bag, or other Accessory

• Finding cheap blank mugs, bags, t-shirts, or tote bags on Amazon is very simple, and all you have to do is add your own little touch.

6. Piece of Original Pottery

• Air-dry clay is a good, cheap alternative to real clay. Using this, you can create whatever you want, and you don’t need a kiln to fire it up. 

7. Framed Drawing

• This is perfect for an artistic person. Create a work of art with your giftee in mind, and display it in a frame.

8. Beaded bracelet(s)

• Beads and charms are very easy to find at any craft store. You can create multiple, and they are a great little gift to give! 

Moral of the story: if you create something thoughtful and put your heart in it, that is the most meaningful kind of present. I hope this helped get the budget-gift ball rolling. Best of luck, and happy holidays!