June signals the start of high school graduation parties and the summer wedding season. Be sure to plan ahead for such expenses. Kathryn Bossler, a counselor with our partner, GreenPath Financial Wellness has shared with us a few tips on giving gifts without breaking the bank:
"Remember, when you are deciding how much you can afford to spend on a wedding gift, it's important to take into consideration the overall cost of the event," said Bossler. "Will you need a hotel room, airfare, or will you have to purchase new clothes?"
1. If the couple is registered, don't wait until the last minute to buy the gift. Watch their registry online and wait for items to go on sale.
2. If it is a family member, consider putting together a cook book of family recipes or gifting a family heirloom, like a piece of jewelry.
3. Make a keepsake box that the couple can use to store mementos from their special day. Get it started with their engagement announcement.
4. If the couple is going out of town, offer to watch their house or take care of their yard as a gift.
5. A gift basket filled with homemade treats, a gift card to a special restaurant, a bottle of wine and a book of love poems, adds a nice personal touch.
While you may have received a "Save the Date" months ago, these one-time expenses can add up quickly with those bills coming in over the summer months.
We're also at the start of high school graduation party season. "While money certainly is a one-size-fits-all idea, you can make your gift stand out and be memorable to the graduate," she said.
1. If the graduate is headed to college, how about a t-shirt or sweatshirt from their new school.
2. A tote bag filled with bathroom supplies for their dorm room.
3. Pre-stamped and addressed envelopes and notepaper for them to send notes home.
4. A meaningful book with an inscription of well wishes from family and friends.
5. A gift card to a restaurant, sub shop or pizza place in their new college town.
"Remember, thoughtful can be more impactful than expensive," remarked Bossler.
So, a little planning and foresight can have you showering family and friends with gifts, while keeping your summer budget in line.