Credit Crunch Gifts
Credit crunch gifts are practical, reusable and edible. I recently gave four champagne glasses filled with seaside candies to a friend as a house warming present. For another buddy who had been complaining about using plastic forks each night for dinner, I wrapped up a set of cutlery and kitchen utensils in adorable licorice allsorts wrapping paper and added a bag of licorice on top.
In the past, you might have bought sauna gift vouchers. Now buy all of the pampering paraphernalia for your friend to use at home. She or he can use it again and again. Remember - Girls aren’t the only ones who like bubble bath.
Another great present I once received was a girl tool kit with all different screws, screw drivers, nails, mini saw and sand paper. It was presented in a wooden wine box case. I use it so much I keep it in my kitchen on permanent display.
Other cool presents I’ve received have been a memory stick, web hosting upgrade, and extra memory for my computer. If you’re friend isn’t into computer gadgets, then how about a rug, second hand furniture (anything you’re not using?) dance classes or a case of cava. Not as expensive as champagne, but with all of the bubbles.
Use your talents. If your cookies are famous with your acquaintances, give a variety package of frozen cookie dough with baking instructions. If you’re artistic, create your own stationary sets or pack of cards. Talk to your local printer to see what he can do for you.
What not to buy – an office desk set. I won one at my office party last year. Even worse, one of the partners said, “Oh, that so suits you!” Great, thanks. Didn’t I have enough staples, bull dog clips, paper clips, stapler remover and stapler on my desk already? Was this a hint they wanted me to work longer hours at home?
These are just a few ideas for practical gifts in a non frivolous time. Think about what your friend needs. The best present may be walking their dog if they don’t have enough time or taking their stuff for them to the charity shop. If your friend has been complaining of needing to get rid of stuff, help them to sort out their closet. Of course, best not to suggest this if your friend has not realized they have a hoarding problem or they might not be your friend much longer.
Pillows are also a great gift for a friend who has just moved into a new apartment or flat. All it takes is a bit of material and pillow forms.
The very best gift I like to give is a framed photo of my friend and I. Now photos are digital, I find it a pain to go to the shop and print the one I want, so for myself I have empty picture frames all over my flat. For a gift, I’ll make the effort. Your friend might appreciate someone taking the time to print and frame their photos for them.
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Contents
Letters from London
Easter Chocolates
Butterfly Bunting
Mr & Miss Bunny Cards
Rabbit & Easy Fold Basket
Spring at Kew
Dresden Plate
Credit Crunch Lunch
Credit Crunch Gifts