2008 Year in Review

Gifts

by Angie VanderVinne

Although I am one of the first to get frustrated when retailers set out Christmas items before Halloween, I believe that financial preparation for Christmas gifts and other gifts throughout the year is good sense. Do you have a gift list? A gift list should include Christmas, Birthday, Mother’s/Father’s Day and any other occasions you typically buy gifts for. I have found that by keeping track of my gift planning and spending not only keeps my budget on track but it reduces my stress regarding shopping for gifts.

On a piece of paper or in a spreadsheet program like Excel, write/type the following headers: Name, Occasion, Amount, and Done for the occasions I mentioned above. In the name column, record names by family groupings, friends, co-workers, teachers, etc. Under the occasion, write down the gift idea, and under amount, write the budgeted amount for the gift. Also, the total of all the amounts in this column equals the money you need to allocate in your budget towards gifts. Once you have purchased or made the gift, place a “X” in the Done column, as that person’s gift is completed.

By keeping a gift list you will be organized, save money, and be relaxed. Also, do not be afraid to shop throughout the year for gifts, especially Christmas gifts, as good bargains can be had on ebay, Amazon, or your favorite store.

by  Editor, theCity1.com
November 7, 2008