What's a better way to show somebody you care than by making them a gift they will cherish forever? It's easy to get caught up in the gift giving aspect this time of year. So many of us are concerned about the latest trends, how to get ahold of something everybody else wants, and how to top last year's gifts. Or maybe you're worried about how you're going to afford gifts for everybody you love this year. Either way, one thing is for certain: gift giving does not have to break the bank in order to be special.
When your budget doesn't seem to match your generosity, you've run out of ideas for gifts, or you are simply just feeling creative, DIY gifts are the perfect way to show your love and gratitude for the important people in your life. CCEF has compiled our favorite DIY gift ideas. Some we've come up with ourselves, others are inspired; but each gift is ideal for those with budget or time constraints this holiday season!
Gift Ideas
1. Baked goods
Do you like to cook or bake? Do you have any unique or super-secret family recipes that'll blow the socks off your family and friends? The holiday season is the perfect time to show off your culinary skills and fill the hearts and stomachs of the ones you love. Just throw your sweet treats into a cute basket, wrap it in a bow, and voila! You've got a low-cost gift that'll be sure to satisfy loved ones of all ages
2. Handmade Tree Ornaments
The only thing you'll need to purchase for this DIY gift are a few supplies! And what's even better, a small budget can go a long way with some creativity. Ornaments are great keepsakes for your gift recipient; and they'll think of you year after year for many holiday seasons to come. Check out this how-to from Glisten and Grace that shows how to make an adorable Snow Globe Ornament!
3. At Home Spa Package
Give the gift of relaxation with a DIY Spa basket! This time of year, many beauty and self-care brands sell mini sized everything. Not only is it more affordable than buying full sized products for the ones you want to pamper, but picking up a few of each item will make for an easy gift for a few lucky people! We've put together a list of things on Amazon to add to a spa day basket. Don't forget to shop through your Amazon Smile Account to benefit CCEF! Each item in our list comes in a set of 3, costing around $35 a person. Feel free to include every item, or pick a few, and you've got yourself an affordable, luxurious gift!
4. Hot Chocolate Jars
Who doesn't love hot chocolate this time of year? Making individual hot chocolate jars is as easy as grabbing mason jars at the dollar store, adding a layer of sugar, cocoa powder, powdered milk, chocolate chips, and marshmallows. Add a nicely tied bow for a finishing touch, and your hot chocolate jar is ready for gifting! Check out this recipe from Foodal for more details.
5. Hand Painted Succulent Pots
Your friends and family don't have a green thumb? No problem! A little pop of greenery is sure to brighten anybody spirits this holiday season! Succulents are our new gift obsession because they don't require much attention. What makes these even more special is that they've been hand painted by you!
Gift them as is or add a personal touch by painting the pot with fun colors or special messages. This set of 25 succulents on Amazon is ideal when you need to find a lot of gifts with a budget in mind. Just grab a paint set, if you don't have one already, and you're ready to go!
Cherokee County Educational Foundation knows firsthand that this time of year can be stressful. Gift giving, holiday parties, time off from work and school, and many other factors can make the holidays feel overwhelming at times. We hope that you've found a bit of inspiration and are able to focus on what truly matters this season; your loved ones! Happy Holidays from CCEF! We can't wait for what the next year will bring.