It is that time of the year again when your bank account hurts a little too much because you want to make sure that you get the right gift for every person. The better the gift then the better the reaction you get, but you also want to make sure to not break the budget you have. Rent and bills are still due the 1st of the month, which means you want to make sure that you stick to a strict limit on how much you spend on each person. Trust me, last year I spent way too much on my family, which left me eating ramen noodles for two weeks in order to be able to pay rent and everything else. So what are some cost-effective, but perfect gifts for your friends? Here are five ideas I will forever stand by:
- Candles
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Nothing is better than a nice smelling environment and you can make that happen! People often are more relaxed and happy when surrounded by a scent they like, which makes candles a perfect gift! The most important part of picking out a candle is making sure not to get one too strong and getting it in a scent that the person likes. Definitely don’t get a pine scent for someone who loves citrus. My favorite candle that I got for someone was a Disney scented candle because they loved a certain ride at the park and hadn’t been able to go in a while. They loved it! I will forever rely on a good candle as a quality gift for a friend because not only does it smell great, but it makes a cute decor item as well.
- Fuzzy Socks & a Mug
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I like to call this gift the cozy and casual gift because a nice pair of socks and a cute mug are both useful and cute! I like to choose the socks based on what the person’s favorite colors are to make them customized and personal. You don’t wanna give them something that they won’t connect with. For the mug, I either get them something cute (like dogs or cats) or something more sleek and professional-looking, it just depends on the person. When giving the present, you simply roll the socks and put them in the mug to make it look like a mug cake. My favorite place to shop for this cool combo is Target because they have a wide range of options and quality products.
- A Picture Frame with a Couple of Pictures of your Favorite Memories
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On a more personal note, a picture frame filled with captured favorite memories is perfect for a long-time friend and/or someone you’re closer with. I find something super sentimental is not always the best, but this is something that can be both funny or sincere. The picture frame you choose sets the tone and then the pictures paint a narrative. You can go with funny photos of you and them or more serious and sentimental photos. Either way, it shows you care and are thinking of them. I personally like going to Ross for a cute frame and then Walgreens to print the pictures.
- Homemade Sweets
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If buying something isn’t in store for you this year, making something sweet is just as personal and nice as a gift-wrapped gift card. From chocolate chip cookies to a loaf of cranberry orange bread, the possibilities are endless. Make sure to avoid anything with nuts because nut allergies are more prevalent than ever, so please don’t give anyone anaphylactic shock. I suggest going with chocolate, fruit, or bread combination because they tend to be easier to give. I highly advise asking about their allergies beforehand no matter what just to be safe. This gift is really sweet to give because you spend more time making it and putting your effort into it compared to others. Then when the person you give it to eats it, they think of you!
- Bath Bombs & Epsom Salts
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My last suggestion is a classic for anyone who enjoys a good relaxing time. A fun bath bomb or epsom salt scrubs are super useful and revitalizing. I find after a good bath, I feel more relaxed and energized. Plus, bath bombs come in all sorts of fun variations. They can be different shapes, scents, colors and sometimes they have little prizes in them! I know Target has a good variation, but Lush is also really good to look into when searching for a fun bath bomb. Epsom salt mixes are fun to give to those involved in sports or super active because they relax your muscles. I find giving a bath bomb and an epsom salt mix is fun and relaxing, which is why it is a good go-to gift.