As the year draws to a close, we wrap it up with one of the biggest, most celebrated holiday of the year, Christmas. Let's face it, Christmas isn't just celebrated on Dec. 25 or even the few days before and after. Christmas is the whole month of December, with the 25th being the grand finale. Along with the celebrating, we all spend the entire month — and usually the month before — scavenging for the perfect gifts for our friends and family. Gifts that will show them how much we appreciate them. However, for a financially struggling college student, this task can be difficult. Here's a list of a few cheap, meaningful, personalized gifts that won't break the bank!
1. Make a Shutterfly account!
Shutterfly is a website where you can build your own personalized products using personal pictures. They won't just send you random junk emails — crazy right? A majority of the emails that you will receive from them are promotions anywhere from 40 to 70 percent off! Not only that, but they also give you free stuff! I actually used this website for a majority of my Christmas shopping this year, only paying $3.99 for shipping.
2. Check out Snapfish!
Snapfish is essentially the same thing as Shutterfly, see above for more details!
3. Bake or cook something!
Everybody likes cookies, brownies, homemade salsa or jelly, chocolate covered pretzels, and even homemade Chex-mix! Super easy to make and enjoyed by everyone! This may be challenging depending on your living situation, but you can always check Pinterest for ideas or recipes!
4. Use a mason jar.
You can put literally anything in a mason jar and it makes for a super cute present. Think DIY Body Scrub, hot chocolate mix and marshmallows, or a favorite candy! All sweet and affordable!
5. Your favorite memory together!
At Walmart you can print a picture for less than 10 cents and buy a frame for less than 5 dollars. Very cheap gift that everyone will appreciate!
6. Learn to knit!
Knitting is one of my favorite gifts to give because of how personal it is - and it's so easy! You can find hundreds of guides on “how to knit” online, and the cost of supplies is not that expensive. Think of how happy your mom will be to have a handmade scarf on chilly days!
7. Make candles.
You can personalize it by adding different colors or decorations or even a special scent! You can make it in unique jars or glass containers too!
8. Make a personal painting.
If you’re crafty enough, you could literally paint someone a personalized picture, I’m sure they would appreciate it!
