Use this Christmas Gift Guide to help prepare for the most wonderful time of the year!
Need some holiday inspiration and suggestions for gifts? Look no further: here, you’ll find frugal gift ideas for your family and friends all for about $25 or less!
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CHRISTMAS ON A BUDGET
Table of Contents
Let me begin by saying that a budget is critical for all walks of life, and it is especially helpful during the holiday season. Personal finances tend to get out of hand without a functioning budget, and who wants to add stress during the holiday? Take a look at this holiday budget post to get started!
So, pour yourself a favorite seasonal beverage (right now, I’m loving this organic coffee from Amazon), dig-in, and enjoy the shopping experience. I don’t know about you, but I find there is something extra special about gift shopping for the ones you care about!
CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE: BEST GIFTS FOR CHILDREN
Our children LOVE gifts (who doesn’t?) and these are some suggestions from the perspective of a young child.
Best Gifts for Boys & Girls
My son has an interest in all things science and robots, and my daughters love to try new things. These are a few fun and educational ideas for the young inquisitive minds, budding architects, engineers, or scientists in your life!
Snap Circuit Kits
Elenco’s Snap circuits are great for individuals and for time together as a father (or mother) and child time. Pick from “100 different electronic circuit projects” contained within this one kit.
Lego Sets!
This is a classic and one that I fondly remember from childhood. Legos are fantastic, reusable, and promote creativity with infinite re-buildable configurations.
Play-Doh
Another timeless classic, our children have spent hours playing with Play-Doh, sculpting, cooking, and creating from the heart!
An Encyclopedia for Children
This encyclopedia is a great blend of the two, with plenty of pictures (hence the title “Picturpedia”. And, it is a great learning tool as well!
What time is it?
Time to get a watch! Get your kiddos a watch, teach them how to tell time, and develop discipline with their schedules.
CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE: BEST GIFTS FOR HER
This section has been completed with close consultation from the wife. Here are 5 items that she recommends for gifts!
Rose Tea for Cold Winter days
This is one of my wife’s favorite teas (I love it too!), and I think you’ll really enjoy it. Aromatic and soothing!
Balance Bar Earrings
These earrings are trendy, minimalist, and appropriate for any occasion!
A Pair of Warm Slippers
Slippers are great for any day, and are especially thoughtful as the temperatures drop!
Keep drinks warm with a Yeti Rambler!
Ramblers are awesome! My wife has used hers for years now, and it is by far her favorite cup. She uses it for both her morning coffee and for a drink of water.
De-stress and Relax with an Apple-Cider Candle
A nice candle is a great way to offset the busy feel and stress of the season. This is warm, soothing, and will last after the Christmas holiday.
CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE: BEST GIFTS FOR HIM
Here are 5 items I really like and have used and owned myself. They’re great gifts and will last well after Christmas. Give a practical gift that they’ll use beyond the season!
The Swiss Army Knife
One of my favorite knife brands of all time, the Swiss Army knife is truly a classic gift. I’ve used mine for EDC (everyday carry), camping, hiking, and anything outdoors. There are myriad options to chose from, and some offer engraving to make it even more personal.
Fisher Space Pen, “Bullet” Pen
This is a solid choice. It was designed for astronauts and mine has stood up to heavy use over the years. This is one of my favorite pens! I’ve had mine for many years now and it has never failed me. I love the sleek look and feel in hand and there are several design options from the “bullet” to standard pen size.
rOtring Mechanical Pencil
I love this pencil! I used mechanical pencils all the way through school, and this one is my favorite. They are well made and the hexagonal barrel feels good when writing.
Organic Instant Coffee by Four Sigmatic
I found this by accident a few years ago and have never looked back. It is my go-to when I need that extra nice cup of coffee! Keto, paleo, gluten-free, and vegan, this organic coffee comes in several variations. Try them all, and pick your blend of herbs and mushrooms like Chaga, lion’s mane, and ashwagandha. I found it earthy, smooth, and very relaxing.
Minimalist, Leather, RFID-Blocking EDC Wallet
I’ve used mine for a couple of years now and it has held up well. There are several colors and materials to pick from so you’ll be able to customize the wallet to the preferences of your gift recipient! Well made, nice design, easy to use and carry throughout the day.
CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE: BEST GIFTS FOR THE FAMILY
We try to do a family-oriented gift each year, each time being an “experiment” to see what the whole family truly enjoys. Here are few items that we’ve had success with, kiddos and adults alike.
Board Game: Settlers of Catan
This is a family favorite, and if you keep a close eye on the sales you can find a pretty good deal. (Note, at the time of this post Amazon had it listed for $24.74, advertised savings of 55%). We have spent several Friday nights playing this game as a family; it is always a good time!
‘Darn Tough’ Socks
These are my favorite socks, and our family loves them. As a family tradition, we buy a new pair for Christmas each year! Warm, functional, and with an outstanding warranty (unconditionally guaranteed for life), these USA-made socks are sure to keep your feet warm and dry.
Popcorn Popper
Popping a fresh batch of Popcorn has been a central theme in our family time. We love it, and it seems to always be ‘the perfect snack’ food. We’ve tried several variations from the oils we use to pop it and seasoning when finished. Regardless, the scent of freshly popped popcorn is amazing!
Elf for Family Movie Night
Elf is probably our overall favorite family Christmas movie of all time! Will Ferrell is hilarious as always, and my kids laugh out loud every time they see it. Don’t forget your “candy, candy canes, and syrup” this holiday!
Mêtis in our Christmas Gift Guide Matters
As you pick a thoughtful gift think about that person and what you appreciate about them! For me, a good gift is a sign of how well you know and appreciate that person. It is a token of love and gratitude and therefore is not necessarily “the most expensive gift” available. Also, say a quick prayer for them, and for a blessing on their life.
Strike a Balance
From time to time, Christmas in our house can quickly get off-track and into the “material” side of things.
For us, we’ve tried to keep it focused on giving gifts and celebrating the Greatest Gift, the birth of our Savior, Jesus.
With a Christ-centered Christmas, it adds even more joy-filled memories as we pick thoughtful quality gifts for our family and friends.
I hope you and your family have a fabulous holiday, can unplug and relax, make some great memories, and enjoy the Christmas season!
Love your ideas. Especially all the games to play with the kids. Gonna start shopping now.
I’m glad to hear that. Enjoy this holiday season!
Great gift suggestions!
I hope they were helpful to you. Happy Holidays!
I’m a woman, but that bullet pen looks like a winner to me! Great for any writers in your family!
It is a great pen – and a great point! Once I find something I really like I love to share it with others. Everyone should have one 🙂 My son and wife both have one too!