Arlingtonian’s guide to gift giving for students on a tight budget
By Olivia Miltner, ’13
Bundle Up
Fuzzy socks or a crazy hat are always a welcome sight during the blustery winter days. Seek out the perfect pair of mittens and a warm scarf. Or, if you want something even more special, learn to knit and make one yourself!
Comfort Foods
What could be better than a cup of hot chocolate and a s’more on those chilly nights when all you want to do is curl up by the fire and thaw? Give the gift of happiness with some chocolate or another cozy comfort food.
Photo Focus
Sometimes homemade gifts are the best to give. Try a photo album that you arranged, or, if you’re looking for something more creative, give a scrapbook a shot.
Personalize It
Whether it’s a T-shirt or a water bottle, personalized gifts are easy and unique. Walgreens is an easy, convenient place for creating your own present, or check out shutterfly.com or cafepress.com for iPhone covers.
Give Back
Have an eco-friendly friend or one who actively volunteers? Then the most meaningful gift may be to donate to a charity in their name. Try the World Wildlife Fund, Doctors Without Borders, or Heifer International.
White Wonders
If you want to give something more interactive, a destination is a unique way to celebrate the holidays. Ice skating is always a cool option, and the twinkling lights of the Columbus Zoo’s Wildlights display can be a great way to get in the holiday mood.