Love Mentor, Elizabeth Sullivan helps you get around the awkward subject of Christmas shopping for your partner when you only have limited funds.

Think outside the box!

Think outside the box!

Christmas is an expensive time of year, especially if you're both on a budget. Here are some solutions and ways to cut costs and still have a merry Christmas:

Agree on a budget - Discuss with your partner and agree to not buy expensive presents, you don't need the stress of the credit card debts in January.

Consider homemade gifts - People love the thought and time that has gone into them, particularly if you spend a lot of time on the wrapping. Bake your partner his favourite treats, perhaps as a Christmas platter.

Get creative - If you're artistic, draw or paint something you know he will like. If you're good at writing - write him a poem or a story. If you're not good at writing, borrow someone else's; write up a beautiful poem or even write an 'I love you because' card and list all the reasons.

Give them an experience - Groupon has some great deals on spa treatments like massages as well as meals and hotel stays but if the budget is too tight for that you can create a lovely tailored experience yourself. Make a voucher for a foot rub, a back massage, breakfast in bed or his favourite home cooked dinner that he can redeem at a later date.

Capture your memories - Find a great photo of the two of you and get it framed. Or perhaps your partner has a favourite photo of their family that you could have framed for them? If you're feeling brave get a friend to take a tasteful photo of you in a sexy nightdress to warm his heart in the chilly winter months.

Use your imagination - Try to think about what your partner would really love? It may not always be the expensive things. For instance, there may be a book by his favourite author, or a favourite kind of beer, wine or chocolate.

Don't put too much pressure on yourself to get the 'perfect' present, remember it's the thought the counts. Wishing you a Merry Christmas!


by for relationships.femalefirst.co.uk
find me on and follow me on


tagged in