What to get your flatmates for your first secret Santa
It’s that happy time of year again, when the shops are filled with Christmas stock, festive lights are being switched on all over the country and the draw for secret Santa is approaching.
If you’re dreading pulling out names from the hat and ending up with somebody you don’t really know, fear not, as there are hundreds of gift ideas out there to suit all styles and budgets, from a personalised pen to a pampering session.
If you have only lived with your flatmates for a few months, your ideas of their ideal Christmas presents may be limited and if your household contains members of the opposite sex, you may be even more worried about the impending present buying session.
Christmas is a great opportunity to get together and celebrate, so make sure you enjoy your secret Santa present swapping session by choosing a gift that your housemate will love. For those of you worried about budgets, busy shops and the minefield of choosing the perfect gift, here are some tips and ideas:
Bring on the Christmas cheer!
Most people who have lived in a student flat will be familiar with their housemates’ drinking habits and buying an alcoholic gift is a sure-fire winner. Pitching up to the local off-licence two minutes before you are due to gather to exchange gifts may seem like an appealing option, but why not act on the old adage, ‘it’s the thought that counts’ by putting some additional effort in and ordering a bottle of personalised wine?
This innovative and original gift will not only show that you care, but will also give your present that exclusive touch. If you’re feeling flush, you could push the boat out and plump for a bottle of the finest personalised champagne?
Presents with a difference
If you’re bored of buying socks and endless bottles of bubble bath, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the amazing range of weird and wonderful gifts on offer in store and online, with everything from adopting a wild animal to naming a star. Make the most of the Internet and use their gift search options to narrow down the numerous choices to suit your housemate. You can shop in the comfort of your own home without having to brave the elements or the hoards of over-eager shoppers.
Budgeting for secret Santa
Christmas is notoriously expensive and a hefty secret Santa budget is the last thing you need on top of paying to get home for the holidays and gifts for your family. Therefore, set yourself a realistic budget and challenge yourself to find a belter of a gift that doesn’t cost the earth.
Christmas is also a financial no man’s land for many, as months have gone by since loan day and there are still weeks to go until the next instalment lands in your account, so try and save some money by shopping online; prices are often lower and you may find presents that you would never see on the high street. Many shops start their sales early, so sign up to newsletters and look out for special events and discounts.
For girls, jewellery, make-up and accessories, such as hats, scarves and gloves, are often affordable and usually well received, while DVDs, clothes, gadgets and sports-related gifts usually go down well with male recipients.
Christmas provides the perfect opportunity for parties, eating far too much, drinking and getting together with friends and family members, so don’t spend your time stressing about secret Santa. Get creative, be organised and put a bit of effort into your present search; if you follow these simple steps, you won’t go wrong!
