Thrifty, Last-Minute Gift Guide
Gifts are a function of budget and most of us don’t have a proper budget for gifts this year. Therefore, I have put together a list that has both meaning and stretches your buck. If you are buying for the 25th and you are out of time, you may wish to try a printout and an explanation, but my advice is personal meaning with your gifts and your time always works best. Here are 5 other ideas:
- Give and Get Back
Several companies allow you to purchase items as well as make a donation at the same time. Tom’s Shoes and One Laptop Per Child are both such companies. Check them out! - The Cheap Stretch
No, you can’t beat the West Coast’s 99¢ Only Stores, they are as ubiquitous as Starbucks and have their own micro-economies. Turn $10 into all sorts of knick-knacks from some A/V cables to disposable headphones and LED lights. Beyond using your creativity to make a gift basket, many stores feature fresh produce as well as an aisle devoted to all types of sugary candies. - Buy Used
A few classified magazines are devoted to buying and selling used items. One guarantee to find the exotic: the Recycler. Of course there is Ebay, just remember to check the seller’s reputation and references. And if you’re looking to make your gifts look more special, you may consider using custom gift boxes which you can get from companies like UnboxMe. - Clothes Always Work
Yes, in 2008, you can even skip a box and throw that sweater into a ball and wrap it up with a bow. Unfortunately, there are a number of clothing stores going under, probably several near you such as Mervyns, which is closing forever after the holidays. Make sure you check each store’s return policy as most sales are final. Hint: buy larger JIC. - Give it Away
There are a number of worthy non-profits that can really use your money for the greatest good. Try Causecast, Kiva, Inside Out Community Arts and Food not Bombs. Note: the latter 2 are neighbors in my office building in Venice.
No Animals
Please don’t buy someone an animal as a gift this year, be it a goldfish or a dog. Unless you are someone’s significant other, girlfriend or boyfriend, adding a responsibility to someone is irresponsible. There is a good piece on this topic a few days ago in the local Examiner.
Have Fun!
The whole point is to take the day off and relax! If you have family and friends around, you are missing nothing! If you get a new laptop, desktop or phone – try out the device by surfing TechZulu on it!
