Photo by Debbie Chi

Just like the majority of East Lansing residents, if you are reading this you are probably a broke college student. During the holidays we are already under enough stress with finals, let alone worrying about finding extra cash for holiday gifts. Well fret no more! I have found some awesome inexpensive gift ideas that are sure to be a hit, but not on your wallet! Remember that the holidays aren’t about how much you spend or what goes under the tree, but quality time with your family. The greatest gift you can give someone is your time. 

Here are a few cute, cheap gift ideas:

• Decorate ornaments- if you are creative and good at painting, pick up some plain ornaments from your local craft store and personalize them! This is a a cute idea that will last a long time, and you can make them really heart felt.
• Candy mugs- buy some cute holiday mugs from the dollar store and fill them with decorative tissue paper and candy. Super sweet, and cheap!
• Bake it!- Everybody loves baked goods, so borrow your grannie’s favorite recipes and make a few goodie baskets. Yum!
• Mini Stockings- pick up a few mini stockings from the dollar store and fill them with candy, or little items such as coffee and tea samples, little hand lotions or chapstick. You can even find free samples online!
• Etched wine glasses- all you need is two wine glasses per person and pick up an etching kit from the craft store. The wine glasses are super cheap, it it looks fancy and expensive. You can personalize them as much as you want, or keep it simple.
• Books- usually pretty inexpensive and it is something that they can enjoy right away, no assembly necessary.
• Chandler Crossings Apartments  offer free gift wrapping days and holiday events for their residents, so if you are lucky enough to be one check it out!

-Katelyn Moore