Are you stressing about your Christmas shopping list?

Here is the perfect gift for every person in your life.

Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year. Everyone seems to be just a little bit jollier. However, Christmas can also be one of the most stressful times of the year. As a teen, it can be even harder because you probably don’t have the budget you would like to buy the gifts your friends and family deserve. As easy as it is to get stressed about gifts, it’s important to think less about the money and more about the people. Homemade gifts are much more meaningful and special than ones from the store. Here are some tips and tricks to creating the perfect gift for every person in your life.

“Maybe Christmas doesn’t come from a store. Maybe Christmas, perhaps, means a little more.” -Dr. Seuss The Grinch 

Mom- How do you show your love and appreciation for the person who does everything for you? Who gave birth to you? Anything you find doesn’t seem good enough. But the truth is, you are her favorite gift. Anything involving photos or words is perfect for the mother figure in your life. Some ideas could be a mother-daughter photoshoot, a nice framed photo of your family, or any meaningful DIY.

Dad- This one can be tricky because most dads “don’t want anything”. Every father is different but most are usually not as emotional as mom. Try to include his hobbies and interests into your gift. Some good basics for any dad are watches, hats, sweatshirts, and wallets. The trick to gifts for dads is practicality. Their gifts should be something they will actually use.

Grandparents- Grandparents love their grandkids so anything personalized and meaningful is exactly what they want. Christmas ornaments are perfect for your grandparents because they usually love Christmas and will think of you whenever they see the ornament.

Siblings- These gift will depend on the gender and age of your siblings. Stay away from delicate and meaningful gifts for younger siblings as they could be broken and probably not loved as much. Stick to simple things like candy and toys. For older siblings, things like jewelry, makeup, candles, and sporting goods are perfect for them.

Boyfriend/Girlfriend- Depending on how long you’ve been dating, you may feel comfortable spending more money on your significant other. Make sure you set a price limit so no one feels bad for spending less. These gifts should be personal. Things like name-plate jewelry, promise rings, and photo albums will make your sweetheart think of you every time they see it.

Friends- You should know what kinds of things you’re friends like so tailor it to each individual friend and make a basket full of little things they would love. Items like makeup, jewelry, candy, fuzzy socks, photos,etc would go perfectly in a friend basket

Distant Friends/Family- Everyone finds themselves in a situation where you have to get a gift for someone you aren’t that close to. Whether it’s for secret santa or a party, it can be really hard to figure out what they want. For these people, gift cards are perfect. Everyone loves food so, gift cards to coffee carts and yummy restaurants are something they will appreciate and actually use.

“It’s not what’s under the tree that matters. It’s who’s gathered around it.” -Charlie Brown 

While Americans spend an average of $786 on holiday shopping, the holidays are about so much more. This time is all about spending quality time with family and friends. Have a Merry Christmas!