CHRISTMAS ON THE CHEAP

Christmas in the midst of a recession is about as appealing as being attacked by a bear. Not only are people spending money on presents but they also spend on decorations, food and entertainment which can burn a hole in any pocket. So here are some ideas for making this Christmas a little less about spending a little bit more about enjoying the company of friends and family.

1. Take a class

One of the easiest things to do is to take a class such as pottery or painting. This way you are given access to the skills and equipment necessary to create your own personal gift which is not only cheap but is also a lot more heartfelt than any store bought item.

2. Make your own Christmas cards and decorations

So much money is spent every year on buying tree decorations, house decorations and cards for Christmas. Why not make your own cards. Invest a little in some nice paper, invite a few friends over and spend an afternoon at arts and crafts to create your own Christmas cards with your own unique touch. Not only is this a fun get together but it also saves money.

3. Make your own gift basket

When you go into a shop to buy a gift basket for people they are always over priced and not everything in it is what you're looking for. So ignore those store bought baskets and create your own. They can be themed (i.e. spa, chocolate, religion or cultural) or just have things that you know the recipient will actually enjoy. It doesn't cost too much to buy a basket at an arts and crafts store then to buy or make a few trinkets to put into it. Or you can go to a grocery store and ask for old boxes and decorate these. And if you want to make it look fuller, take some pages out of old magazines and crumple them up. It all adds to the charm of your basket.

4. Gift Certificates/coupon books

Sell yourself and your skills. If you have a special skill such as cooking, cleaning, or some other useful service why not give your friend a gift certificate for a free lesson or a discounted service. Coupon books are always fun as well. You can give a free 10 minute massage or a free car wash. The possibilities are endless and are only limited by the imagination.

5. Create your own Cookbook

If you have special culinary skills or even if you are just a food fanatic, why not create your own cookbook for friends and family. This way, every time they make a dish from your book you will be remembered. Plus it increases your chances of eating a dish you enjoy when you're invited over for dinner.

6. Create your own compilation

Music is said to be good for the soul. So ransack your song collection and compile your favourite tunes to burn onto a CD or tape to gift to your nearest and dearest. Or, make a CD that has your recipient's favourite songs. They'll appreciate the effort you put into it and it shows that you know them well.

7. Calendars

Every household needs a good calendar. So make one yourself. If you want to do it on the cheap, print out the daily calendars from the computer and glue it onto a piece of cardboard or thick paper. Then add pictures of yourself and the recipient or pictures that you made or photographs you took. Alternatively, you can create a more professional one through printing companies which can be done in bulk as well.

8. Write a story

For those creative types, why not write a short story that stars your family and friends. These are quirky and can be done for almost no cost, just some time and imagination. And to make it even more fun, create some illustrations to accompany it.

These are just a few ideas to get those creative juices flowing for a Christmas that is cheap and cheerful and more heartfelt. Merry Christmas and enjoy the money that you save.