In 2004 I went Christmas shopping all.year.long. I created a spreadsheet in Excel, and kept track of not only how much I was spending, but how much I was saving. Almost every single gift was bought on clearance. For example, the wallet we gave my dad cost $8.04 and if I had bought it full price, I would have paid $26.81. The best deal I got was a blouse and vest for one of my sisters. I spent $3.80; full price would have been $60.07! Oh, and one thing funny with my family, is that we like to exclaim (as the family member is opening our gift): "guess what? I got that for under $4!!! It would have cost over $60 new!" (leaving the original price tags on and taking the clearance stickers off is impressive as well! LOL) Shopping totals for 2004, for 18 persons: $99.69. If I would have paid the original prices on all these items we would have spent $381.59!
As I have mentioned before, I have a large family. Kevin and I like to get a gift for each family member, which translates into a lot of gifts! So saving money is a good thing. Interestingly, 2004 is the only year I've done my Christmas shopping in the above-mentioned manner. I don't know why. I guess I don't really like shopping that much!
So now Christmas isn't too far off, and I felt the need to get started! I actually have a few things set away that I bought last year after Christmas, and a few projects started, but not quite enough! I sat down and wrote out a list of who we would be buying for, and came up with ideas for each person. I've already purchased a few gifts since I wrote out my list. It really helps the budget to spread out the gift-buying! Plus, it is ideal to not have to "wonder as I wander" through the store, looking for a gift, any gift, on Christmas Eve! Oh, any ideas for an 18-year old brother? Brother, feel free to comment as well. ;-)
Do you have your Christmas shopping underway as well? Need some ideas? I just found this site, which has some ideas for each person on your list!
6 comments:
OK I had to laugh when you said your family announces the prices for which things were paid for. I DO THAT, my family just rolls their eyes and tells me I shouldn't tell people, but I feel HEY, if I can get a brand new thing on clearance for say $2 rather than $20 I got a great deal and I should tell everyone! ;)
I have not started shopping yet, except for a few books for my kids, but I have started making a couple presents so far.
As for an 18 year old brother....I would probably say a gas card. When I was 18 I never had money for gas ;).
Have a great day!
Amy
How about a gift card for your brother? Does he have a hobby? If not, then his favorite store. Best Buy is always a hit with my teenager.
I've started making out my list, but so far I haven't done any shopping. I am one step ahead of myself this year in the fact that I actually have a list. Most of the time I just shop (and shop) until I find something I think someone would like. :)
I don't really enjoy shopping either...you were incredibly organized in '04!! those were some incredible deals!! speaking of deals come on over and check out the giveaway... but maybe you've already entered..ya just never know..but it ends tonight..
:)
LOL Amy, it is fun, isn't it?
Thanks for the ideas for my brother! I'm glad I have a while till Christmas, but his birthday is coming up too!
For the brother - a CD, a t-shirt, a ball cap, a box of home made cookies (I'm sure he gets lots of homemade stuff at home but maybe some varieties that your Mother doesn't bake?), a DVD & a bag of popcorn, a handknit scarf, SOCKS!, movie passes, book on a favorite sports team, you mentioned a wallet, gloves, knit hat, phone card or top up card for a cell phone if he has one, and lastly, probably too late for Christmas for you to make, but I am making my 20 yr old nephew a denim quilt made from his old jeans.
Now you are making me realize I have to get started on planning and shopping - urg summer is just over!
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