The holidays are upon us, and if Christmas tree displays in September didn’t remind you, it’s time to get started on whatever year-end shopping you do.
I’m a big fan of starting holiday shopping early and with purpose. Before I got serious about making a list and checking it twice, invariably I’d end up with 4 gifts for my grandfather-in-law and nothing for my grandmother-in-law. This necessitated last minute desperation shopping for one person while I had overspent on the other.
My list is old school in a Microsoft Word document. Here is a sample:
| Recipient | Item | Price | Ordered | Received | Wrapped | Mailed/ Delivered |
| Mom | World’s Greatest Cat Nana sweatshirt | $40 | Y | Y | ||
| Dad | Accordion Lessons | $60 | y | |||
| Catherine | Framed Glamour Shot photo of me | $30 | ||||
| Sean | One Year Membership to Taylor Swift Fan Club | $100 | Y | y |
Of course, for any need, there is an app! The online/phone tools available make it possible for family members to share gift wish lists (a huge help!), track what’s been bought, create a budget and track to it, and even order items directly from the app.
Some apps even alert you to deals on wish list items. Amazing! For a review of holiday gift tracking apps, click here.
Whatever your method, remember your long term financial goals and don’t get de-railed into credit card debt because of the exuberance or pressure of the season.
A thoughtful gift that is inexpensive is more appreciated than throwing money at a gift that has no meaning to the recipient. Take the time now to THINK about your giftees, and giving will be fun and not break the bank.
