Growing up, you may have heard your parents tell you how “money doesn’t grow on trees”.  You may not have fully grasped the heavy burden of financial planning back then but, once you start standing on your own two feet, the reality sets in.  Today, even more than ever, we are all looking for ways to cut costs in every aspect of our lives.  With Christmas around the corner, we want to buy everyone we love a little something without coming across as cheap.  So, how do you balance finances while buying gifts for everyone and without looking as though you have taken the cheapest way out?  Cheap hampers!  That’s how!
Every country, city and town has its own selection of bargain shops.  These are the places where you find very similar items to those in boutiques but at a fraction of the cost.  Why pay a fortune when you can get it for less?  Make a list of all the people you are shopping for and set a total budget as well as a budget for each person.  Take your time wandering through these cheaper shops and look in every corner of every shelf.  Think of the people you are shopping for and keep in mind their hobbies, interests and so on.
Now, if you don’t find baskets or holders for each recipient’s gift, you can also check at your local craft shop for suitable containers.  Simple baskets are usually practical and quite cheap.  There really is no point in spending too much on gift containers if you are strapped for cash.
As for the wrapping part, you can save time and money by buying a role of cellophane.  Remember to avoid clear and choose a colour instead.  Choose a colour that will suit men and women and don’t forget some festive ribbon for the top!  Alternatively, if you want a more durable form of packaging, you can visit your local fabric shop and buy something like organza or tulle.  Something transparent will work very well and you can use an elegant bow to give it that special touch.

Don’t forget to add some sweet treats!  You can get a nice variety at your favourite supermarket or grocery store.  If you buy them by the kilo or buy several ready packaged bags from the sweet isle, just be sure to mix them all together and give each lucky recipient a nice variety.  If you want to create a nice base for your hamper, remember that wispy materials like straw make great cushioning bases and they give the hamper an even fuller appearance too.