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Do you have someone on your gift shopping list who likes the theater, live concerts or sports? Then one way to handle the “what to buy” dilemma during the holidays is to purchase a pair of tickets to an event that you know the recipient will enjoy. This is especially nice if you are getting something that they wouldn’t necessarily buy for themselves. I say a “pair” of tickets because most events are better if you can take someone with you.

Depending on where the recipient lives, you can buy tickets to a number of events:

Tickets or a season subscription to the local playhouse. There are a great number of amateur playhouses (some that also serve dinner) in many communities. Junior colleges and even some high schools put on performances that are highly enjoyable.
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When find yourself with someone on your holiday gift list who is difficult to shop for, sometimes your best bet is to go for something out of the ordinary. Here are some ideas for unusual gifts that can please even the most discriminating receiver.

Interestingly scented candles, like lavendar-sage or apple pie.

Crystals. These can be pendulums, jewelry or even just kept in a velvet pouch. Chlorite quartz is supposed to be a healing mineral said to cleanse ones aura.

CD’s that play the soothing sounds of wind, rain and babbling brooks. I used to have one that played the sound of the ocean — it was a great backdrop to an indoor beach party!
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You don’t have to go all out when buying gifts to give those you love something they will cherish. As the old adage goes, “It is the thought that counts.” Therefore, it is better concentrate on the joy and amusement the receiver will get and not on how much money you will spend.

So, if your gift budget is tight, there are many ways to save while still being able to give gifts that will be deeply appreciated. Here are some ideas:

Start a Gift Closet

… Or at least a Gift Bin or Box. If you have not done this before, try to do it now. Shop for gifts all year long. This not only can save you money — because you’ll be able to buy things on sale — but it can save you time and hassle, as well. The point here is that if you do not plan in advance, you will end up spending more.
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Ever do a gift exchange with your family? How about Secret Santa with your co-workers? Or even watched in anticipation at a friend’s or child’s birthday party? The excitement builds and everyone can’t wait to see what unique holiday gift ideas the rest have gotten. You just know that this year is going to be different. Finally the time to open gifts has arrived, and you watch as all the gifts are opened and to everyone’s disappointment, the presents are the same old ones from last year, and the year before, and even before that one.

Do you really want that to happen again this year? Do you really want to be the person giving ties, watches even kitchen utensils? Oh, and don’t get me started on those who can’t make up their mind and a simply give you a gift card.

Here are some ideas to bring a sense of personality, panache and possibly peculiarity to your holiday gifts this year.
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