COLUMBIA, Md., Nov. 22 /PRNewswire/ -- The average consumer plans to spend
approximately $740 this holiday season according to the National Retail
Federation. However, rising energy costs and increased credit card minimum
payments are now causing some people to rethink their spending when it comes
to choosing gifts for family and friends.
"A simple way to stay on budget is to avoid waiting until mid-December to
begin shopping. Watch the sale circulars and start shopping now," said Mike
Croxson, president, The Freedom Point. "Experts predict stores will mark
merchandise down early to encourage holiday spending before the expected high
energy prices hit."
Memorable holidays don't have to cost a fortune. The Freedom Point has
suggestions to help give that perfect gift without going over budget.
Little Drummer Boys and Girls
- For a great newborn baby gift, write Ringling Brothers Barnum and
Bailey Circus for a free ticket. Every baby is eligible for one free
ticket during the year of his or her birth to be used anytime during
the child's lifetime.
- Avoid fancy toy stores for toddler gifts and head to the local dollar
store. Kids won't know the difference and you won't overspend.
A Teen's Favorite Things
- Most teens are very "brand-name" conscious. Watch for sales and opt for
accessories instead of high-dollar clothing. Earrings, wallets, belts,
and necklaces are usually marked down before clothes, and teens love
opening a box from their favorite store.
- Gift cards are another great option to give teens. It's practical and
they'll love the freedom to pick out that special something they've had
on their lists.
All I Want for Christmas Is You
- Frame an old photograph of you and your significant other or create a
memory book or CD highlighting important events in your relationship.
Time spent creating a gift can often be more valuable than money spent.
- Draw up coupons for a date night or a Saturday morning sleep-in. After
the busy holiday season, some guilt-free relaxation will be
appreciated.
Deck the Halls with Friends and Family
- Stretch your budget by making handmade gifts for your family and
friends. Delicious treats, holiday ornaments, simple crafts and
knitting are meaningful ways to show off your talents and give a one-
of-a-kind gift.
- Buy multiple items in bulk and create your own gourmet "gift sets."
Purchase packs of goodies - candles, wine, pasta, spices, etc. - and
create personalized gift sets that fit every personality.
These tips, called Freedom Pointers, are submitted by consumers and offer
ways to save money on a variety of topics including holiday shopping, energy
bills, grocery shopping, caring for pets and many others. For additional
holiday-saving Freedom Pointers, visit http://www.thefreedompoint.com.
About The Freedom Point
The Freedom Point is a financial fitness company providing a breadth of
financial services, including advice, coaching, peer connections, education
and access to resources that help individuals gain control of their personal
finances. To reach a Freedom Point Financial Fitness Coach, consumers can call
1-800-4-FREEDOM. Headquartered in Columbia, Md., The Freedom Point is a member
of the Ascend One Corporation and its family of businesses. For more
information, visit http://www.thefreedompoint.com.
SOURCE The Freedom Point
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Related links:
http://www.thefreedompoint.com
CONTACT:
Clarky Lucas of The Freedom Point,
+1-410-910-2750, or clucas@freedompoint.com; or Scott Pryzwansky
of Trone Public Relations, +1-336-819-6939, or
spryzwansky@trone.com
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