The holidays are upon us. You are probably like most people this time of year. You made a list of everyone you would like to buy a gift. Whether you wrote in down or have it in your memory bank, you know who is on it. You probably also have an idea of what you’d like to buy them. Unfortunately, you also know what was on your last paycheck. That means you need a plan-b. 

Remember that sweater that you just know your sister would love? Or, how about the Beats headphones your significant other has been eying? Both would make fabulous gifts, but so would many other things that are less expensive and even one of a kind. Everyone loves a gift that comes from the heart. Take a look at the list of inexpensive, personalized gifts below. Then, when the holidays are over, look at your bank balance. You will be glad you went more personal and creative. 

• Tray of Homemade goodies – You can buy a festive holiday tin or plate and make up some of your holiday favorites. Think fudge, decorated sugar cookies, peppermint bark or a favorite of the family will show them you spent the most valuable thing your time for them. Cost $20 or less.

• Homemade Christmas decorations – Go to the local dollar store and buy clear glass ornaments and some different colored paints. Put a few drops of paint into the ornament and swirl it around. Leave the top off to dry. Each ornament will be one of a kind. Want it a little more personal? Buy a gold or silver glitter pen and write or draw whatever you want on the outside. Your name and the year will help them always remember it came from you. Cost $5-$10.

• Custom Calendar – Yes, there are people who still use the good, old-fashioned calendar that hangs on the wall. Gather together some of your favorite pictures from the past year and go to your local Walgreens, Costco or other photo print shop. They have designs to choose from and will help you place your order. Then you just have to go back to pick it up. Cost $15.

• Calendar not your thing – Take a photo and put it on a mug for the coffee or tea drinker in your life. If you’re buying for your bestie, they will love the keepsake of your best memory for the year. Cost $5-$10

• Colorful votives – Go to the local thrift store to buy clear glasses of votive holders. Buy some paints. Put a few drops in the votive and swirl. Layer the paints and colors until you get the look you want. Add a candle. Voila! Cost $5.

• Custom doormat – Buy an inexpensive doormat. Buy seasonal or monogram stencils and paint. It is a custom, one-of-a-kind gift that they won’t get anywhere else. Cost $15-20.

The list is endless and doesn’t require a lot of practice on most of them, but they are the gift that will be most cherished because it is personal and came from the heart.