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Thursday, August 27, 2009

Frugal Friday: Getting Organized for Christmas Gift-Giving


I just realized how many Christmas gifts I've already purchased! Now that's a good feeling! I've been stocking up on items for friends and family members, and I didn't even know how much of our shopping I'd completed.

One way I stay organized - and don't buy double gifts for anyone - is to use a Christmas shopping organizer that I created. It's nothing fancy, but it works.

I use this each year. I start by filling out the name column. I list everyone we buy for, and I leave a few spaces between each name. That way, if I'm buying multiple smaller gifts for someone, I have enough room to enter each one. Here's a sample line for you. (Click image to enlarge.)


You can download a FREE copy of my organizer in Microsoft Word format or PDF format. (It's easiest to type on the Word format.) You can find both HERE.

Now is the time to start thinking about your Christmas gift list. If you've been shopping ahead, you might surprise yourself like I did! If not, then you might want to think about starting to buy gifts now rather than saving the expense for December.

For more great frugal living ideas, stop by Frugal Friday hosted by Life As Mom.

3 comments:

Beth said...

Great idea! I try to start my Christmas shopping early too. It such a relief not to be worried or stressed out during the holidays so you can spend time with your family and enjoy it.

Anonymous said...

I shop all year, and when I take stock Thanksgiving day (in preparation for shopping the next morning) I'm usually surprised at how much I've already purchased - how many names I can strike off my list.

I especially love peeling clearance and sale price stickers off of gifts. We can give more abundantly when we save so much giving.

Buffie said...

I shop year round too. I'm currently tracking mine with an iPhone app (mGifts). That way I can even check my list while I'm out shopping and not buy for someone that I already bought for.