Last year, my sister told me she was going to give handmade gifts because she was tired of the commercialization of Christmas. I took her words to heart and did a combination of gifts handmade by me or someone else and bought at the store last year. The other thing I did last year that really helped my budget was I bought the kid's big ticket items early and shopped around for the best deals online. This year, I got their gifts in September, free shipping to my mom's in Montana where we are going. The gift I got Amilia was listed for $34.95. Yesterday I saw it at Walmart for $39.97.
My kids are getting very few things this year. Thankfully the baby doesn't have an opinion yet and I limited Austin's gift requests to less than 5 things. I also avoid the toy sections when we are in the stores this time of year and DO NOT WATCH LIVE TV with your kids between October 31-December 25!! The commercials are everywhere!
Another gift to consider for yourself or others is the gift of time or experiences. This year I asked Ryan for a gift that will keep on giving, a membership to houseseats.com that offers free tickets to a variety of local shows, concerts, and other events. Ryan bought the membership this month because of the 2 for 1 special. I got 2 years for the price of 1 and got the 4 ticket membership so we can take the kids or friends with us.
Here is my challenge to you! If you can, consider purchasing gifts from independent business owners or making some of your own handmade gifts. If you can't (you have a family member with a specific item request) shop around online for the best deals. Walmart is not always the low price leader!
Below I have compiled a list of my favorite handmade businesses and local independent consultants. Together, we can put more money in their pockets this season rather than corporate America. Click the underlined words to link to their websites.
Little Ragamuffin Boutique Tule dresses and skirts, bows, and other handmade clothing items.
Metal Stampin Mama Custom metal stamped jewelery and ornaments for a variety of occasions. I have ordered gifts from her several times and they are beautiful!
Handmade Crocheted Hats She makes hats, braids, and finger puppets!
Once Upon a Costume Beautiful custom costumes, princess dresses. She is also selling stick horses to raise money for her daughter's trip to Washington DC!
Patty's Perfectly Posh Bath and body products, Patty Munch
Patty's Jamberry Nails Nail art without a bottle of polish, Patty Munch
Mary Kay Barbara Peterson, independent beauty consultant in Las Vegas.
Scentsy Wickless candle warmers and home fragrances. Kathi Torres
Lia Sophia Beautiful jewelry, great specials! Kimberly Hirsch
Lula Roe Maxi skirts and more! Melissa Everett
Etsy Online market place for handmade, vintage and craft products.
Pampered Chef Stephanie Yenchek Yenchek@cox.net
Stampin' Up stamps, paper, craft products Terri Green rtkj@cox.net
Las Vegas Craft Show on November 23rd Click this link for the upcoming local craft show at Lummis ES.
Please submit a comment to add additional independent businesses!
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