Let’s be real – holiday season often brings along a hefty dose of financial stress! Between holiday dinners, travel expenses, and endless gift lists, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. While we all want to give our loved ones gifts they'll love, staying within budget can be challenging. Thoughts like, “Will they like it?”, “Am I spending enough?”, and “Can I even afford this?” run through our minds, making it harder to enjoy the season. We totally get it! That’s why we’ve curated a list of thoughtful and financially savvy gift recommendations straight from a financial therapist herself.
Affordable White Elephant Gift Ideas Under $25
White Elephant exchanges are a fun way to bring everyone into the gift-giving spirit. If you want to stay within your budget, these gifts under $25 will definitely do the trick!
Coffee Warmer (Absolutely a must-have for coffee lovers!)
Cup Extender (A 10/10 gift—great to give and receive!)
Fuzzy Cozy Holiday Socks (Perfect for keeping warm and stylish!)
Tile Tracker (They'll never lose their keys again!)
DIY Snack Box (Personalize it with their favorite treats!)
Affordable Gifts for Family and Friends (Tested & Recommended)
Stuck on finding gifts for those close to your heart? Here are some affordable gifts that come with a side of laughs and self-care.
Satin Pillowcases (Great for hair health and reducing frizz!)
Heating Pad or Massager (Perfect for quick relaxation)
Games: Tapple, Spot It, or Monopoly Deal (Ideal for game night or date night!)
Electric Toothbrush (A practical gift they'll love)
Self-Care Day (Gift card for a manicure/pedicure or a relaxing massage)
Affordable Gifts for Kids (Beyond Toys)
If you’re struggling to afford a toy for kids this holiday, consider educational gifts that support their future success and creativity.
Invest in a 529 Plan (Give the gift of future financial success!)
Monthly Subscription Box: Little Passports or Kiwi Co (For monthly educational fun)
Financial Wisdom Coloring Book (Highly recommend—it's rap themed and too cute!)
Finance Books by Women of Color – A Gift That Lasts Beyond the Holidays
Looking for a gift that will inspire long-term impact? These finance books authored by women of color are a perfect choice to help loved ones level up their money game in 2025:
Feel Good Finance by Aja Evans
Mind Your Money by Yanely Espinal
Make This Holiday Season Stress-Free and Budget-Friendly
We know holiday stress can feel overwhelming. Embrace the season with humor, and a lot of budgeting savvy! After all, the best gifts are those wrapped in love and laughter—not debt and stress.
Want more budgeting tips and strategies? Our financial therapist, Jasmine, works with clients who need support with financial stress and holiday budgeting. Jasmine is taking clients in NY & NJ, both out-of-network and in-network with UMR. Book a consultation here to see if financial therapy is right for you!
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