As college kids, we all know that the monetary struggle is real. Unless you've landed the latest co-op, you most likely don't have a lump sum of extra cash laying around to spend on family and friends this holiday. If your parents are anything like mine, they tell you "Don't worry about getting us anything for the holidays, you are our greatest gift," or something corny along those lines. And if you also have friends like mine, you probably have already discussed either not exchanging gifts, setting a price limit, or doing some sort of group exchange that won't leave you all with empty pockets by the time you head home for winter break.
In high school, the rage among friend groups was a Secret Santa. It has great intentions, especially because high school was cliquey and no one wanted to dish out the money for a whole group of friends. But college is different because we all have different friends in different groups, and then you still have to factor in family and friends from home. So here are a few gift giving ideas on a budget for the different people in your life:
Your sorority sisters: For your closest sister friends, a craft is a thoughtful but not overwhelming gift. I know some of us have PTSD from BigLittle week and cringe at the sight of a canvas and glitter, but any type of small craft shows you dedicated time and effort to create something personalized and unique for a sister. Let's face it, any sorority girl who says she doesn't like crafts is lying.
Your college BFFs: Select your favorite picture of you and your friend from this semester and get it printed. Throw it in a small frame or shadow box with a note or the story behind the picture. It's a personalized gift and a fun way for you to reflect on all the good times you've had this fall. Your friend will love to display it in their dorm or apartment!
Your home BFFs: Get something personalized from your school to bring home to your friends! A T-shirt, mug, or a cool piece of memorabilia from your university is a nice way to remind them of you whenever they wear or use it!
Your significant other: For BFs and GFs, I'm an advocate for activity gifts: fun things that you can do together! Get tickets for their favorite sports team or a show, or get lift passes for a day on the slopes. These might be the most expensive gifts, but aren't they worth it?
Your parents: As they are easily the most difficult people to shop for, what do you get for the people that have given you everything? Parents (at least mine) are all about the sentimental gifts. Sometimes just planning a day trip with them while you're home, doing something you always did together or eating at your favorite restaurant is a gift in itself. As college kids, our parents want nothing more than to spend time with us while we are home!
So even if you're on a tight budget this year, try a few of these small-scale gift giving ideas for everyone on your list!
