Getting Personal

                This Christmas capitalise on gifts that won't break the piggy bank
            
                In much the same way as Britain's summer has this year been a bit of a wash out, the economy is also looking a little bit wet and drizzly. Even if you're not personally starting to feel the pinch, it's not hard to see the writing on the wall; prices are increasing, the housing market is not performing nearly as well as before and there seems to be a problem with one bank after another. This being the case, it makes sense to make the most out of the pennies and invest in Christmas Presents that won't break the piggy bank – after all, it is the thought that matters the most.

Indeed, there once was a time when the giving of Christmas gifts for many people was a humble affair, but that is often no longer the case for many people. Electronic children's toys are far more expensive than they used to be, and games consoles – not to mention music players - are not exactly cheap. However, that doesn't mean that there isn't plenty of fun to be had with lower-cost Christmas gift alternatives – and there are plenty available for all of the family.

So, when it comes to stocking fillers, why not give an inexpensive Christmas gift that won't just save pennies, but will also give that special person a taste of things to come. Those with green fingers may appreciate a Grow It – Chilli Plants Gift Box, and camera enthusiasts may be thrilled by the Christmas Tree – Christmas Pocket Photo Album; after all, Christmas is a time when people take tonnes of photographs, and whether it's photographs of party antics, or little children opening their Christmas presents, the festive season is never complete without a collection of snaps.

But what about Christmas Gifts for her? It doesn't matter whether she is your sister or your friend, your parent or your partner, during the season of goodwill she deserves something special; after all, not wanting to break the bank is no excuse for not wanting to try!  So, if the person on your mind is the kind of girl who likes to host dinner parties, then a set of six Party Shoes Place Settings could the perfect way to spice up any Christmas Day dinner party. Made from enamel, these place settings provide three pairs of shoes for boys, and a further three for the girls – double the fun for three pairs of hungry couples!

And when it comes to gifts for him, how about cufflinks? They're not only an inexpensive way to let someone know how much you care, but they are also a great way to tie in a gift to the season of goodwill - not to mention his personality. If Christmas Trees and baubles are not quite his thing, why not instead opt for golf balls, or even Mr Tickle Cufflinks? There are even alcohol-themed cufflinks available for those men who fancy themselves as connoisseurs; the possibilities are only limited by the imagination!

Gifts for the kids could be a little trickier; after all, they may well be expecting an expensive gadget that marketing managers have prefixed with an 'i', or if not, some next generation games console that will have them dancing around the television – which is not necessarily a bad thing, so long as they're moving! However, the kids can have so much fun over the festive period with Christmas Gifts that won't break even the most fragile of piggy banks, and will probably be far better for them!

Indeed, for kids who like to play games, why not get them moving with the classic game of charades? This word-guessing game has a number of vintage moves that are fun for all the family. Is it a book? Or a play? Or maybe even a television show? Who knows! It's up to you to decide! 

So, whatever the state of your finances this Christmas, relax, unwind and enjoy. The time for giving really doesn't have to hurt!