Iris Holiday Gift Guide 2019

2019

Holiday GIFT GUIDE featuring Simpson Hardware and Sports

How to make easy

holiday wreaths

Cooking for a

holiday crowd

Stuff your stockings

with your local products

2019 features Stocking stuffers you can buy in Sumter.............................4

contents

Prepare the fireplace for holiday decorating...................................5 Christmas tree tips and tricks......5

Publisher Vince Johnson vince@theitem.com Executive Editor Kayla Robins kayla@theitem.com Sales Staff Mark Pekuri mark@theitem.com Karen Cave karen@theitem.com Xavier Platt xavier@theitem.com Layout and Design Ryan Galloway ryan@theitem.com Cary J. Howard cary@theitem.com The Sumter Item Osteen Publishing Co. 36 W. Liberty Street Sumter, SC 29150

Cooking for a holiday crowd........6 Tips for successful office Secret Santa exchanges.........................7 Christmas tree recycling..............7 How to make holiday wreaths the easy way..................8 How to be comfortable when holiday shopping........................8 Holiday gifts for four-legged family members........................10 Crafty experiences for holiday gifts..............................10 This year’s hot holiday electronics....................11 How to simplify holiday hosting.....................................12 Keep safety in mind when gifting toys................................12 How to be frugal holiday shoppers......................13 Gift Guide featuring products found at Simpson Hardware &Sports ....................13

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Stocking stuffers you can find in Sumter

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1. Anne Bivens, www.annebivensjewelry.com; 2.Coffee mug, Laura Cardello, ljcardello3@gmail.com; 3. Towel, Mary's Custom Quilts, maryscustomquilts@gmail.com; 5. Knives, Tucker's Forge, tuckersforge.com 6. Birdhouse, Dave's Woodturning, dsessions2@sc.rr.com; 7. & 13. Lavender sachet & gold painted shell, Sew Fine Creative, (803)775-4167; 8 & 10. Jewelry, Shudwe Farm Wood & DuRant Jewelry, facebook/shudwe farm woods; 9. Aunt Bird and Little Beaz, tkesterson@sc.rr.com; 12. Anne Bivens, www.annebivensjewelry.com; 4, 14 & 16. Herbal remedies, Modern Hippie, www.modernhippie6.com or facebook.com/modernhippie6; 11, 15 & 17. Dorr Farms Pure Raw Honey, Jams and Jellies and Dressings, instagram/dorrfarms

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Prepare the fireplace Christmas tree

tips and tricks

for holiday decorating

C

A

jolly holiday season can be made even more merry with a roaring fire. Homeowners often build holiday tableaus around the fireplace to serve as festive backdrops.

The mantle and the fireplace itself also may be a prime spot to dedicate to decorating this time of year.

Even though Christmas tree fires are rare, according to the U.S. Fire Administration, when they do occur they’re likely to be serious. That is why trees and other flammable decorations need to be kept clear of gas and woodburning fireplaces and stoves. In addition, many other guidelines should be heeded to ensure fireplaces and holiday decor safely coexist this season.

Read labels on decorative items carefully before decorating. Be sure to only select items that are flame-resistant or retardent. Cherished collectibles and other items should always be kept far away from open flames and heat.

It pays to have a fireplace inspected and cleaned for use prior to operation, advises Doherty Insurance Agency. Rely on a trained chimney sweep, and have the fireplace and chimney inspected and cleaned at least once per year.

Even though it may be picturesque, do not place wrapped packages or gift boxes near the fireplace, as they tend to be highly combustible. Keep presents and other flammable items at least three feet away from the fireplace.

Do not be tempted to dispose of wrapping paper, boxes or even a Christmas tree in the fireplace.

Wrapping paper contains additives that make it burn at high temperatures.

A Christmas tree hasn’t been properly seasoned and could be a fire hazard and potentially contribute to excessive smoke and creosote.

Keep decorations that kids will be tempted to touch away from the fireplace so kids do not hang out near the heat and open flames.

Fireplaces are often a focal point of holiday decorating and entertaining.

Homeowners who want to incorporate their fireplaces into their holiday decor must emphasize safety when doing so.

Redecorate your

HOME for the

Freshly cut Christmas

hristmas as well. trees are farmed trees are specifically for the holiday • If needle an iconic season and support local retention is a symbol of the economies. They also tend goal, the Scotch holiday season. to last a bit longer than Whether they are pine variety has pre-cut trees available personal trees nestled the best needle elsewhere. in the corner of a living retention and a high room for families to enjoy survival rate, lending to its or towering evergreens serving popularity, offers Precision Tree as the focal point of a town square, Christmas trees are a wonder to behold. and Landscape. Douglas fir and balsam fir are other durable trees.

Many people have fond memories of time spent around the Christmas tree • If possible, buy a freshly cut tree sharing gifts and family traditions. Live from a reputable nursery or tree farm, trees and their pine-like aroma can be advises The Old Farmer’s Almanac. Many especially nostalgic trees to include in pre-cut trees sold elsewhere were likely cut holiday plans. The National Christmas Tree Association says that approximately weeks before and may not be fresh.

25 to 30 million real Christmas trees are • Cut the bottom of the tree trunk sold in the United States every year. North before bringing it home to facilitate the American trees hail from all 50 states and areas of Canada. uptake of fresh water daily. Trees can absorb as much as a gallon of water in a While freshly cut trees can be particularly beautiful and aromatic day, so make sure the tree gets fresh water additions to the season, they require a bit every day. more work than artificial trees in order to • Keep trees away from as many heat remain beautiful and thrive throughout the sources as possible and away from direct holiday season. Maintenance can help keep Christmas trees as perfect as possible. sunlight to prolong longevity.

• Even though it is tempting to buy a • According to Karabin Farms in real tree as early as possible, their shelf Connecticut, to make a Christmas tree life is limited even with the best care. last longer, boil a gallon of water and Dural Christmas Tree Farm advises that, then dissolve one cup of sugar in the under the best conditions, a real tree should last up to four weeks before drying out. water. Allow to cool. After freshly cutting the trunk, pour in the warm sugar water.

• Consider the needles when looking for a real tree. Pull your hand toward your Continue to add fresh, cool, plain water to body along the branches. If many needles the tree stand afterward. fall off, the tree is past its peak.

Once needles begin to fall off with • Think about the room in which the frequency, the tree is reaching its prime. tree will be located. Leave at least 6 inches Remove it so it does not become a fire between the tip of the tree and the ceiling, hazard. accounting for the height of the tree stand

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Cooking for a

holiday crowd

D

ecorations and shopping draw much of the attention come the holiday season, and rightfully so. But many people’s fondest holiday memories occurred around the dinner table during meals with friends and family.

Holiday foods tend to be rich, flavorful and time-consuming to prepare. However, all the effort is usually worth the satisfied smiles on the faces of loved ones.

Planning holiday meals is challenging, and hosts often doubt if they have enough food for everyone. No one wants guests to leave feeling hungry, nor do they want to have tons of leftovers, much of which will inevitably end up in the trash.

Determining how much food to serve involves figuring out

a few key items, including the mix of guests (ratio of children, men and women), the length of the occasion, the timing of the event, and the type of meal one plans to serve. For example, if the holiday gathering is an afterdinner cocktail party, hosts can get away with offering very little food. However, hosts of holiday dinners have a lot more food to prepare.

To get started, consider these general guidelines, courtesy of Allrecipes.com and The Spruce, a home living resource.

Think about which foods you plan to serve. Popular foods tend to go more quickly than other items, so serve more than the general portion guidelines suggest. Shellfish appetizers, roasted or mashed potatoes,

wings, and slices of rich meat are examples of popular fare.

The more foods you offer, the smaller the portion sizes can be. But because guests will likely want to try all the offerings, expect the average person to consume more food per individual when several foods are offered.

Most people will eat two to three portions each of appetizers or snacks. In fact, appetizers (for a hungry crowd) may be consumed in greater abundance than subsequent courses.

Average portion sizes for each guest include: 3 ounces of dips; 3 ounces of salad; 6 ounces of meat or main entrée; 5 ounces of starch; and 11⁄2 pieces of dessert. These estimates can be

used to calculate how much food will be needed.

Think about adding “safety” items to the menu that can be pulled out in a pinch and don’t require much prep work. These can include cheese and crackers, extra bread, nuts, olives, or pretzels.

Hosts who are overly concerned that guests may go overboard can tame portion sizes by hiring servers who can oversee buffet lines. Otherwise, serve guests plated meals directly from the kitchen, from which hosts can dole out the right amount of food to ensure everyone gets enough to eat.

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Christmas tree recycling W Tips for successful office Secret Santa exchanges T

he holiday season provides plenty of opportunities to socialize. Holiday celebrations are sometimes akin to family reunions, but friends also tend to celebrate together in December.

Such celebrations sometimes include different groups of friends, and that may require hosts to do a little extra to break the ice so everyone relaxes and has a good time.

Secret Santa gift exchanges can make for a great ice breaker, even if guests are buying gifts for people they don’t know. If you plan to make Secret Santa part of your holiday party this year, consider these tips to ensure it goes off smoothly.

Start planning early. Hosts likely know everyone coming to their party, so they should take the lead and organize the Secret Santa exchange.

Let guests know as early as possible, even including the information in the party invitations, so they have time to shop.

Make it optional. Forcing people to mingle and exchange gifts is never

a good idea. Give guests the option to participate ask them to indicate if they will or won’t when they RSVP. Set a reasonable gift limit. Figure out a budget that works for everyone.

There are plenty of gifts to be had for $20 and under. Gag gifts or “dollar store” gift themes can ensure no one goes overboard in terms of dollar value.

Consider a wish list. Asking participants to fill out wish lists ensures that their Secret Santa buddy will have an idea where to start shopping.

Enlist a digital helper.

Technology can make organizing Secret Santa exchanges even easier.

Elfster is an online gift exchange app that can help hosts effectively organize their Secret Santa parties.

Fun is key to Secret Santa exchanges, so make sure to keep things lighthearted when planning the party and exchanging gifts.

hen choosing a real Christmas tree for holiday celebrations, consumers should think about the many ways that trees can be repurposed after the holiday season. Some towns collect discarded trees to use them for various purposes. However, homeowners can get in on the action as well. The Old Farmer’s Almanac offers these great ideas for post-holiday tree use.

• Prop up the tree near a bird feeder to provide another perch and shelter to birds that stick close to home in winter, such as chickadees and finches.

• String the tree with various treats for birds and put it in a sheltered location. Ideas include homemade suet, cranberries and millet.

• Mulch the tree and use it in the garden in the spring.

• Use boughs to insulate perennials in the garden.

• Keep some branches to use as kindling in a wood stove or fireplace, or as aromatic logs for next year’s yule fire.

• Sink an old tree in a personal pond.

Fish and tadpoles will live and lay eggs around this sheltered area.

• Collect some pine needles and sew them into fabric packets to make scented sachets for closets or drawers.

There are many imaginative ways to come up with handy uses for Christmas trees once the holiday season ends.

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How to make holiday wreaths the easy way T

here are many different ways to decorate homes and businesses for the holidays.

Tall evergreen trees are among the most visible symbols of the holiday season.

However, wreaths hung on doors, windows or fences also are ubiquitous this time of year.

Wreaths adorn homes primarily during the holidays of Easter and Christmas. Wreaths have also been worn around the head or neck in ceremonial events around the globe for centuries. It is believed the first wreaths date back to ancient Greece and Rome. Members of the GrecoRoman society were known to hand-make ring-shaped items using fresh tree leaves, small fruits, flowers, and twigs. Oftentimes these headdresses

symbolized a person’s social status. Others suggest wreaths evolved to become a Christian symbol of immortality.

Regardless of how wreaths are viewed, many people like to display wreaths for the holidays. Wreaths can be purchased premade, but making a wreath on your own can make the holidays even more fun.

One of the easiest ways to make a wreath is to design it around a circular floral foam form. Gather supplies to make the wreath. For traditional wreaths, supplies will include sprigs of evergreen (real or artificial), ribbon, floral wire, bows, and artificial berries. Working around the foam form, arrange the boughs of evergreen, using the floral wire to wrap or pin into the foam itself. Keep the layers coming until you get the desired coverage. Embellish with a ribbon or place a bow.

The blog A Piece of Rainbow says that creating a wreath jig is an easy way to make a wreath. Cut a dollar-store laundry basket bottom from the top ring to make a template, on which you can place wreath-making materials so they keep their circular form. Use floral wire or natural jute string to tie the materials together. Experiment with fresh evergreen, twigs, holly branches, or whatever materials you choose.

Thick card stock also can serve as the wreath template.

Attach artificial flowers or leaves, spray snow, ornaments, or other items to the card stock ring with a firm adhesive.

Many craft stores sell wreath forms made of natural vines that have been strung in a ring. These can be decorated in their entirety or left a little sparse to let the natural twine show through.

Wreaths may seem like complicated creations. But a little imagination and the right materials is all it takes to create a homemade wreath.

How to be comfortable when

holiday shopping S

hopping can be time-consuming come the holiday season.

According to a Consumer Reports Holiday Shopping Poll, during the holiday season, the average American spends roughly 42 hours buying, wrapping and returning gifts.

Holiday shopping can be both physically and mentally tiring. But there’s no reason why holiday shopping excursions cannot be comfortable.

• Keep weather in mind. The weather can affect where shoppers do their shopping. Select indoor malls or outlets and other retailers with overhead coverage to protect against the elements.

• Choose easy-flow stores. Stores that are easy to navigate and offer ample room for multiple people to shop simultaneously can feel more comfortable, even during the busy holiday season.

• Wear comfortable clothing. The rise in luxury loungewear means shoppers can be comfortable and look good at the same time. Choose footwear that will not rub and cause blisters while offering ample arch support to prevent tired feet.

• Arrive well-fed. It’s difficult to make shopping decisions on an empty stomach.

Heading to stores satiated can improve productivity and help avoid fatigue or impulse food stops.

• Consider shopping small. Many small business owners go out of their way to provide a comfortable shopping experience, establishing rapport and solving problems for customers.

• Take breaks along the way. Recharge by resting from the shopping experience.

Take a break by sitting down or periodically engage in activities that do not involve shopping or thinking about the holidays.

• Shop unencumbered. Leave unnecessary items at home so as not to be burdened down by coats, bags and other accessories. Utilize lockers at malls or coat checks. Skip bulky purses in lieu of small, easily toted options.

With these shopping comfort strategies in mind, holiday excursions can be that much more enjoyable.

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Holiday gifts for four-legged family members

H

oliday shoppers who are busy making lists and checking them twice should make sure they don’t overlook the family pet.

Christmas has gone to the cats and dogs, as a greater number of people include their companion animals when selecting gifts each year.

A study by OnePoll conducted by Rover.com, the nation’s largest network of dog sitters and walkers, found that 95 percent of pet owners have bought holiday gifts for their pets. Gifts can range from everyday needs, like food and treats, to more lavish extravagances like spa treatments.

Pet owners who plan to get their pets gifts this year may want to consider some of the emerging pet trends as they browse wares and services. The Balance, a business, career and industry information site, says pet industry trends point toward these segments seeing growth.

Natural pet products Just as people are interested in protecting the health of the planet and their own personal health, so, too, are they extending this concern to companion animals. Natural pet products, which can include natural flea and tick remedies, holistic foods, organic items, and all-natural grooming products, can make great gifts.

Specialty pet services The American Pet Products Association says the demand for high-end pet grooming and other services is substantial. In addition, personalized training, behavioral consulting, portrait photography, dog sitting, and upscale spa treatments like pet Reiki and massage are booming.

Mobile pet grooming Mobile pet grooming has become the norm in many areas. Mobile pet grooming can reduce the potential

stress on animals, and tends to be very convenient for customers, particularly seniors and others who have mobility issues.

Beyond these growing trends, pet owners have a bevy of other ideas from which to choose. Here are just a few different suggestions: • tests to detect pets’ DNA and trace breed and ancestry, • interactive puzzles to keep pets engaged and banish boredom, • s tylish storage baskets for pet toys, • hidden cat litter or dog crate items that camouflage commonly used pet items, • heated pet bed for cozy nights and mornings, and • s ignature vests, coats and sweaters to look good and remain comfortable.

Pet gifts are popular this time of year, ensuring all members of the family have a treat to open.

Crafty experiences for

O

Holiday gifts

ne of the challenges each holiday season is coming up with novel gifts for loved ones. For those who seemingly have it all and might not need another Santa sweater or fruit basket, an experience gift might be the perfect fit.

Giving experiences can be fulfilling for gifters and show recipients that the gift was given ample thought.

There are no shortages of experiences to offer. However, people who enjoy arts and crafts may enjoy being on the receiving end of a crafty experience this year.

• Glass-blowing: Glass-blowing is an art form that turns molten glass into colorful and eye-catching pieces.

Blown glass can be transformed into everything from wine goblets to ornaments. Instructors can teach gift recipients how to form glass into desired finished products and decorate them with swirls, patterns and colors.

Check with local glass-blowing artisans (many are located in tourist centers and seaside towns) to find out if they offer experience gifts.

• Paint and sip: Paint and sip businesses are thriving, as scores of novice artists produce impressive artwork while sipping a glass of vino.

A friend or a family member who

aspires to be the next Bob Ross will likely enjoy a paint and sip gift.

• Farmhouse style crafts: Businesses that teach individuals how to create farmhouse crafts take them through the step-by-step process of turning raw wood boards and shelves into stained and stenciled farmhouseinspired pieces. With clever sayings like “Home is where our story begins” or “Smith Family, Est. 2019,” it’s never been easier to create custom pieces in just a few hours.

• Pottery: Pottery studios can now be found as stand-alone buildings or as franchised establishments in area shopping malls. Recipients can choose among various projects and walk away with a painted and fired treasure that can be displayed for years.

• Brewing: With the rise of craft breweries, apprentice shops have turned up across the country. A craft beer experience gift may be just what a budding brewer needs to start creating his or her own beers.

Craft-inspired experience gifts can be customized for people with a wide range of interests.

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This year's

hot holiday electronics T

he holiday season is synonymous with many things, including exchanging gifts with friends and loved ones. Each year, certain items prove more trendy than others.

Get the scoop on the gear and gadgets that are bound to be on the top of wish lists this year.

Amazon Echo Show 5 This is the latest incarnation of the Echo Show at a more affordable price point than past incarnations. The screen is a smart display and enables users to make video calls, play games, watch videos, check the weather, and control smart home devices.

A new privacy feature allows users to turn off the camera and microphone when the device isn’t in use.

Battery pack case There’s no need to waste time sitting by the phone charger waiting for popular iPhones to revive their batteries with a battery pack case. A charging case provides extra talk time

or video streaming and fits comfortably on various models.

those who want to keep tabs on their homes while they’re at work or on vacation, may cherish this security camera. The newest version is weatherproof and has cloud storage.

Motion detection will set off an alert on a person’s phone or tablet in real time.

VicTsing Wireless Shower Speaker Whether a friend or loved one is practicing for a night out at karaoke or enjoys getting pumped up in the morning with upbeat tunes, a waterproof shower speaker is a hot gift. It can stream music or bluetooth over calls from a phone.

Fitbit fitness tracker A Fitbit product is certain to be a winner for fitness enthusiasts. The Fitbit Charge HR Wireless Activity Wristband is an affordable option capable of tracking workouts. It also can sync with a phone and is water-resistant.

Blink XT Home Security Camera People with security on their minds, including

Tile Trackers Handy Tile gadgets connect to keys, bags and other belongings that frequently go missing. Simply connect to the app and the device will ring, identifying the location. The upgraded version covers 200 feet and has a louder volume. iRobot Braava Robot Mop This powerful robot will mop and sweep tile and hardwood floors. Pair it with the traditional iRobot vacuum and an entire house can be cleaned without lifting a finger.

These are just a handful of the items that will be coveted this holiday season.

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How to simplify

holiday hosting C

ome the holiday season, many people look forward to gatherings with family and friends. Such gatherings are often held in private homes, and that means someone must take on the task of hosting.

There are many advantages to hosting holiday gatherings. Hosts won’t have to travel during a notoriously busy time of year to take to the roads and sky. Hosts also won’t have to book hotel rooms or arrange for other accommodations, saving them money and time during a season that tends to be expensive and packed with social engagements.

As the day of their holiday parties draws near, hosts can take several steps to make the day of the party easier, allowing them to spend more time with their family and friends.

Choose the right menu. The right menu can go a long way toward making hosting easier on the day of the party. Various factors, such as food allergies and the size of the guest list,

must be considered when planning a holiday menu. As hosts scour cookbooks for the right foods, look for recipes that don’t require everything to be done on the day of the party.

Prep work tends to take as much, if not more, time as cooking the foods. So look for recipes that allow you to do most, if not all, of that prep work in the days leading up to the party.

Clean the common areas. Guests likely won’t be spending time in every room of your house during the party. So when it comes time to clean, focus on the common areas where guests will be. Living rooms, dining areas and restrooms should garner the bulk of your attention when cleaning. If guests might be wandering outdoors, make sure leaves and dirt have been cleaned off of patios and decks.

Plan a playlist in advance. Expect to be busy on the day of the party, even if the party is catered or all the food prep was done long before the first guest arrived. Because you will

Preparing menu items in the days leading up to the party can make the day of the festivities that much easier for holiday hosts.

be busy welcoming guests, you likely won’t have time to set the musical tone for the party, so do so in advance of the big day. If you want to stick to holiday music, many streaming apps offer various stations that play holiday music exclusively. Simply choose a station you like and then begin playing music when the first guest arrives.

Make a list of supplies and check it twice.

About two weeks before the party, sit down and make a thorough list of everything you expect to need. Include food, beverages, dining needs (i.e., plates and silverware), and entertainment.

A couple of weeks before the party, purchase items that won’t spoil, such as beverages like water, soda, wine, and beer and extra utensils if necessary. Doing so saves time during your grocery store trip the week of the party.

Holiday hosts can take several steps in the days leading up to their parties to make hosting easier once guests arrive.

Keep safety in mind when gifting toys

F

ew people garner as much delight from opening holiday gifts as young children. The holiday season is a wonder to behold, culminating with brightly wrapped presents just waiting to be revealed.

For parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and friends, nothing is more memorable than watching the pure joy on a child’s face when he or she opens a holiday gift. As a result, well-meaning gift-givers sometimes forget to consider safety when seeking out toys and games for kids.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission says there were more than 250,000 toy-related injuries treated in American hospital emergency departments in 2017.

Most of these injuries were attributed to nonmotorized scooters, toy balls and toy vehicles. However, any toy that is not age-appropriate has the potential to cause harm. That is why the organization Prevent Blindness America, which spearheaded the campaign to make December Safe Toys and Gifts Month, advises caution when gifting youngsters.

12

NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2019

The following are some guidelines when gifting young kids, courtesy of PBA, the CPSC and Kids Health®

by Nemours.

• Always read labels to see if the toy is right for a child’s age. Don’t buy a toy that is too mature for a child even if you think it would be a big hit.

• Consider a gift recipient’s temperament and behavior before purchasing a toy. While one child may be mature enough to handle a toy, another of the same age may not be ready for it.

• Recognize choking hazards in toys, which may include marbles, small balls and uninflated balloons.

Button batteries, which come in many electronics, can be a choking hazard and cause damage to intestines if swallowed.

• Toys with strings and straps can strangle young children and should be avoided.

• Inspect all toys for sharp edges or points. Even

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stuffed animals with internal wires can stab, cut or shock.

• Avoid toys that have parts that fly off, as they can injure the eyes or other parts of the body.

• Look for nontoxic labels on toys, including crayons, markers and other art supplies.

• Toys made of fabric should be labeled as flameresistant or flame-retardant.

• Painted toys must use lead-free paint.

• Look for the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) label, which signifies that the toy has passed the group’s safety inspection standards.

• Monitor toy usage during play, and frequently examine toys to see if wear and tear has made them into hazards.

The holiday season is an exciting time for children eager to play with new toys and games. Ensuring those gifts are safe can make for a healthy giving season.

How to be a frugal

holiday shopper The holiday season is a joyous but often expensive time of year.

T

he average American will spend $700 on holiday gifts and other trimmings this year, totaling more than $465 billion says the National Retail Federation. In a 2017 survey for CIBC, Canadians said they were planning to spend an average $643 on gifts and another $300 on decor and entertaining.

Such spending can compromise household budgets, making the post-holiday hangover that much more difficult.

• Establish a firm limit on gift amounts. The more the merrier is a popular a sentiment during the holiday season, but spending more on a gift doesn’t necessarily mean it will be better received. Many humorous, whimsical, practical, or even glamorous gifts can be had for $30 or less.

• Combine financial resources. If there’s a splurge in mind for a particular person on a list, find out if someone else is willing to serve as a cogifter. For example, siblings can chip in for a gift for Mom or Dad if they have their sights set on something expensive.

• Consider a grab bag or secret gift exchange. Families or groups of friends can opt for a grab bag this year. In such arrangements, each person brings a gift worth no more than a previously agreed on amount of money, and individuals take turns pulling gifts out of the bag. This is a great way to stay within budget and is a particularly helpful arrangement for big families.

• Shop all sales. Utilize sales to your best advantage to score deals on various items. Those who plan ahead can shop off-season to help stretch a budget over the course of the year rather than over one or two months.

• Include some homemade gifts. People with a talent for knitting or crocheting can create blankets or other gifts.

Bakers can whip up tasty, edible treats. The holidays are a prime time to put your unique talents to use and turn them into beloved gifts.

The holidays certainly can be expensive, but people can rein in spending by acting frugally when gifting.

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