gift guide

[source]

If you haven't noticed, gift guides are all over the place these days. There are ideas for mom, dad, sis, bro, significant other, best friend, favorite teacher, dog, etc! Some of my favorites are from A Cup of Jo, J.Crew, and Martha Stewart.

The ideas come easy, but figuring out (and sticking to!) a fair budget for each person has been difficult for me. Taylor and I have decided that we can only afford gifts for one another and our immediate family. BUT that doesn't mean I can't get creative with gifts for friends! I've come up with a few of budget-friendly ideas for those special gals in your life!

- Bake something and assemble it in a precious package

peppermint bark, cookies, or coco mix! [source]

 - Make them a mix CD with a homemade case & note explaining song choices

 - Revamp a vintage card with somethin' extra - like graph paper & a gift card pocket

card jotter via Design*Sponge

-Using scrap fabric from thrift stores, make no-sew bunting

from Delightfully Tacky via Pinterest

Some tips:

- Take advantage of all the free downloads for printable cards and gift tags

- Reuse paper grocery bags for wrapping paper

- Always check the clearance section! You never know what random object could only be $5 (a notebook, nail polish, earrings, candle, vase...you get the picture :)

What do you do to stay within budget for gifts?