Do you ever look in the fancy windows of mall stores and just drool, wishing that you could buy everything you love? That might be especially true at Christmastime when you are shopping for those you love. If Christmas is supposed to be so magical, why do you feel so stressed about the fact that you have to do your Christmas shopping on a tight budget? Well, take heart. Using your creativity and your smart brain, you can definitely buy some very special gifts, even on a shoestring budget.
Don't Stay Away From Fancy Stores - Do you want a fancy label on the gifts you give to the people on your shopping list? Don't shy away from those fancy stores at the mall. You'll probably be amazed at the things you can find on sale racks. Think about giving a theme present to somebody. For example, buy a summer outfit that you find on the sale rack, and pair it with cute summer sandals that are on sale because they're not in season. Add cute summer sunglasses that you buy at the dollar store and the recipient won't have any idea that you shopped on a tight budget.
Look for things that are damaged, too. For example, if you are in the furniture department of a store, you might find a chair that is slightly damaged. The store can't sell it for full price, but you might be able to easily repair it, so you've made a smart purchase!
Check Out Your Local Pawn Shop - Have you ever been into a pawn shop before? Don't get fooled by the sleazy ones you might have seen in a movie, although those probably exist somewhere. Today's pawn shops are well decorated and a nice place to be. And, you'll be totally amazed at what you can find in those stores. For instance, if you have a son or daughter who has been anxious to start guitar lessons, you are more than likely going to find a good guitar at a great price. Is somebody on your list wanting jewelry? Look for beautiful jewelry of excellent quality right in the pawn shop. You'll probably be very surprised at how affordable the jewelry is.
While you're at it, consider getting a loan at a pawn shop. Perhaps you are waiting for a Christmas bonus. If so, sell something to the pawn shop that will bring in some good money and then redeem it when you get your bonus. Contact a company like Whittier Loan & Jewelry for more information and assistance.