What do you get the woman who has everything – or the woman you don’t know very well? A spa day gift basket is an easy gift because everyone likes to be pampered. Tired moms, overworked teachers and dedicated friends all deserve some me time and the opportunity to relax and indulge in self … [Read more...] about DIY spa day gift basket
Christmas
How to turn unwanted gift cards into cash
Gift cards are at the top of everyone's wish list, no matter the holiday or occasion. It's the perfect gift because for two reasons: It's quick and easy gift for the giver AND the recipient can pick out exactly what they want (or enjoy a favorite meal.) No need for any returns or … [Read more...] about How to turn unwanted gift cards into cash
16 cool things to do with used Christmas cards
Every year before Christmas, our mailbox fills with holiday cards from family and friends. I hang them on the refrigerator or banister during the season for display, but once the holiday decorations come down, I’m always wondering what to do with the old cards. Recycling is a better option than … [Read more...] about 16 cool things to do with used Christmas cards
17 ways to reuse and recycle old calendars
Your calendar has been hanging on your wall for a whole year now, and it's almost time to take it down. Maybe it was just a throw-away calendar from your insurance guy. But maybe it was a nice gift calendar you got from your sister. If it was, it’s a shame to throw away all those pretty … [Read more...] about 17 ways to reuse and recycle old calendars
How to use gift cards to save money
Gift cards and certificates are a favorite holiday or birthday gift for many people who want their loved ones to choose exactly the gift they want. Gift cards are high on the list of requested gifts, but many people forget to use them or never use the full amount.In addition, … [Read more...] about How to use gift cards to save money
9 cheap but thoughtful last-minute gifts
Budget-friendly last-minute gifts can shine – if they’re chosen thoughtfully and presented beautifully. If you've waited too long, even Amazon may not be able to help get it there by Christmas, but you should be able to find these items in stores as well.Portable chargers This year, with … [Read more...] about 9 cheap but thoughtful last-minute gifts
Restaurants open Christmas Day 2023
Whether they've been naughty or nice, diners can check a stress-free meal off their holiday wish list.A number of restaurants will be open on Christmas Day 2023, including low-cost and moderately priced options. As always, call ahead to confirm holiday hours, as some locations may opt to close … [Read more...] about Restaurants open Christmas Day 2023
Affordable, practical gifts your friends and family will love in 2023
We’ll never forget the story of the practical gift that saved a family — literally. A young man’s gift to his parents — a smoke detector — sat under the tree when a fire broke out in the house in the middle of the night. Fortunately, the giver had put batteries into his gift. Even though it was … [Read more...] about Affordable, practical gifts your friends and family will love in 2023
6 homemade food gifts (with recipes!) that are cheap and easy to make
If you're looking for unique holiday gifts that won't break the bank, look no further than your kitchen pantry. We’ve pulled together several cheap and easy recipes for homemade food gifts that make especially thoughtful hostess and teacher holiday gifts. Honestly, anyone on your Christmas list who … [Read more...] about 6 homemade food gifts (with recipes!) that are cheap and easy to make
Free, cheap and homemade gifts for pets
Even if you're on a tight budget, you can add your furry friends to your holiday gift list. Gifts for dogs and cats are inexpensive and super simple. You can even easily pull together homemade pet gifts from items that are already in your house.Food treats For a no-fuss dog gift, a fresh jar … [Read more...] about Free, cheap and homemade gifts for pets
10 best budget-friendly kitchen gifts
As an avid cook who feels at home in the kitchen, I'm familiar with lots of kitchen tools and gadgets. This list of affordable kitchen gifts will make life easier for the home chef on your holiday list. I own most of these items myself and use them often enough to know that they're worth the space … [Read more...] about 10 best budget-friendly kitchen gifts
Old-school, no-tech gifts for kids
Technology is great, but when it come to younger children, it has not-so-great aspects, including the creation of ecowaste, negative effects on children's attention spans and problems associated with social media use by preteens. And, less importantly but of more immediate significance, the … [Read more...] about Old-school, no-tech gifts for kids
70+ restaurant and retail gift card deals for 2023
The holidays are the best time to buy gift cards for loved ones (or even yourself) from popular restaurants and retailers because of all the bonus offers. Plus, it's the perfect gift because the recipient can pick exactly what they want at their favorite shop (or enjoy their favorite … [Read more...] about 70+ restaurant and retail gift card deals for 2023
Cheap stocking stuffers for kids
Granted, the video game crowd is hard to impress, but every kid deserves a goody-filled stocking on Christmas morning. To keep from breaking the bank on this beloved Christmas tradition, think cheap when you’re looking for stocking stuffers.Traditional stocking stuffers that are relatively … [Read more...] about Cheap stocking stuffers for kids
Is it ever OK to give used presents?
Frugal shoppers often wonder if they can give a used item as a gift. The answer is yes, but there are caveats: The gift must be a good value or an heirloom, and the recipient must be OK with it.I have given and received used presents. Several years ago, my husband bought me a secondhand … [Read more...] about Is it ever OK to give used presents?