Nov 27, 2008 11:18 pm US/Eastern
Cheap Gifts: Thrifty Holiday Shopping Tips
MIAMI (CBS4) ―
Holiday shopping, it can be stressful and expensive, and this year more than ever, money is an issue for many of us. But there are ways to find great bargains and gifts for the holidays that cost less than $10.
The thrifty shopping tips come from Sharon Harvey Rosenberg, better known as The Frugal Duchess, and author of "How to Live Well and Save Money."
CBS4's Lisa Petrillo joined The Frugal Duchess at the Target store in Midtown Miami. She quickly pointed out a popular selling cosmetic gift bag. "This is nice," said The Frugal Duchess, "but its $25.00 and we can do it ourselves and not spend a fortune."
First, Sharon suggests checking out the red tag specials, where shoppers can create a spa gift bag for a lot less. There are candles, soaps, bath salts and more, all for about $7.00.
At her home, Sharon had a decorative planter and stuffed in some tissue paper for the bottom.
"When you look at gift baskets in the store, they look like they have a lot more in them. They don't, they have a false bottom," explains Rosenberg.
She loaded the gift tin up with the red tag specials, added a bow and created a gorgeous homemade spa gift set.
Another frugal find, but one that requires thought, is to find out what the recipients favorite childhood book is. For instance, if it's "Cat in the Hat," then buy the book and place it in a decorative bag.
"You're making a deposit in your emotional bank account. You're saying I thought so much of you; I went online and tracked down your favorite book. I thought of you, I packed it for you and I'm giving it to you," said the Duchess.
You can also take that "Cat in the Hat" book you've had in your house and turn it into pop art for a funky gift.
She explains, "We haven't defaced a book, we're creating a piece of art." Sharon simply cuts a favorite page from the book and places it in a $1.00 frame purchased at a thrift store. Add a $3.00 mat to give it a border and add pretty bow and you have a great picture.
For the baker, think recipe cards, condiments and creative bowls and spatulas.
Thrift store bought frames with pictures of the grandkids inside are great for grandparents. "You write a nice little note, something the child says and put it in a bag," explains Sharon.
She also stresses that packaging is important. Dressing up the gift is a must and don't forget to remove the price tags. But the most important thing is not just a cliché; it truly is the thought that counts the most.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
Double Homicide In NW Miami-Dade
Click to enlarge
Stumble It!
