How many parties are you going to this holiday season? If the answer is more than a few, you might be wondering how you can afford all those hostess gifts you will need to bring to get fed. Have no fear! Bring one of these gifts and you will be welcomed into the party without any credit card debt.
If you’re paying off debt, get these budget-friendly hostess gifts!
Giving Hostess Gifts Without Credit Card Debt
Going to a party this holiday season instead of throwing your own does save on costs. However, if you want to follow proper party etiquette, a hostess gift is a good idea. Can you afford to be polite and pay down credit card debt? With a little creativity, the answer is yes.
Budgeting Tips for Hostess Gifts
An extra expense, like a hostess gift, may come as a shock to your streamlined budget. To avoid credit card debt, choose a gift that fits within your budget.
Rework your budget to find the specific dollar amount that you can spend on hostess gifts. This way you will know if you can go out and buy something or if you need to be a little more creative.
Here are a few suggestions on how to make your budget accommodate a few extra gifts this holiday season:
- Start couponing and cut back on extras at the grocery store
- Regift an item you already own
- Split the cost of a gift with someone
- Make your own gift
- Decline one or two party invitations you know will be expensive (travelling, attire, gift exchanges)
Some of these suggestions are easier than others. Declining an invitation can be an awkward task. Once you get it over with, you may be relieved to not have that financial burden. Perhaps you are able to do a group gift or a well-made, inexpensive DIY project. In the words of Tim Gunn, make it work!
Inexpensive & Classy Hostess Gift Ideas
Typically, gifts for the host are relevant to the evening at hand or the person receiving the gift. Food and beverage items are very common choices and for good reason. Artisan chocolates, tasty drinks and delicious baked goods are never out of season. There is also room for items that are helpful around the home, such as a set of coasters.
Here are a few more gift ideas to bring to your next holiday party that won’t cause you any more credit card debt.
- Flowers & Vase
- Wine
- Chocolate
- Cookies
- Homemade Pot Holders
- Candles
- Cute Cocktail Napkins
- DIY Ornaments
Making sound budgeting choices this holiday season will keep your finances on track and maybe even let you have a stress free holiday.
If you’re struggling to pay off debt, ACCC can help. Schedule a free credit counseling session with ACCC today.
