College How-To: Shopping for the Holidays

Church Street Marketplace in Burlington

As if any ordinary college student weren't broke enough already... 

It was only until this month that I really understood the stresses brought upon by the holiday season that my parents constantly referenced once November hit. As naive as it is, my past December mindsets have always been fixated on the celebratory cheer and beloved festivities that came with Christmas; not the financial restraint. Living independently, job or no job, calls for financial overhead, which immediately leads to stress. Here are some tips I've learned help curb the anxieties of gift shopping as a college student!

1. Set a budget.

 And a reasonable budget, at that. Most friends and family members understand that college students don't generally have a lot of change to spare, so maintain a monetary limit of $30 or less for each person you're shopping for.

2. Scope out all options and make the gift meaningful.

Although $30 (or less) may seem to offer a very slim array of gift options (at least it did to me), scoping out your options prior to investing in a gift allows you to choose a more meaningful or creative gift. For example, consider who you are actually buying the gift for and what their recent interests have been. This also means giving yourself enough time to browse and purchase. Plan accordingly (which doesn't mean start your shopping two days before you leave for home.) Also, establishing a theme for all of your gifts can be of assistance when narrowing down your options.

For example, this year I decided to settle with a "from Vermont" theme. Each gift I purchased for my family members came from one of the many small boutique's in downtown Burlington, that way they were all personal and symbolized a transition we have all experienced this year. 

Here are some gifts ideas that are affordable and never-failing:

1. Books of any sort (personal inscription included.)

2. Any handmade products.

3. Fair trade edibles.

4. Organic candles and soap (both of which are never-fail purchases for mothers and sisters.)

5. Decorative objects for the home, such as vases, glasses or napkins. 

3. Where to scope: land or cyber space?

Living in Burlington, I'm fortunate to have so many shopping options, from artisan products to Vermont-made kitchen supplies. However, ordering gifts online is always a great alternative option. My prime recommendation for finding great gifts within your budget online? Gift guides by bloggers. A Cup of Jo and Cupcakes and Cashmere both always post gift guides each holiday season (Cupcakes and Cashmere's categorized by price range, A Cup of Jo by recipient) that include unique and personalized gift options. 

4. Integrate some creativity.

Even if that means making your own gift tags. They aren't lying when they say it's "the thought that counts"... Write a personalized note to each recipient, and make sure to touch upon why you chose that gift for them. Spending a little time on your gift wrapping creates a genuine first impression!
 
Happy Shopping!