Ideas for inexpensive but unforgettable gifts for your partner

Chances are, with this recession, you’re being frugal these holidays. But, this gift idea isn’t being cheap, despite the low cost; it is packed with value, and your partner will love it. It’s the gift of time.

• Make it a scavenger hunt. Buy numerous small cards with hints on them, hiding them in various places around the house. Your partner will have to run from place to place, upping the anticipation that leads to them finding their gift. This is fun and exciting for everyone. Perhaps you can even leave smaller gifts at each location, if you choose, leading to the final and favorite gift. Even if you decided to reign in your spending this year, the added work, thought and time put into the scavenger hunt will leave your partner smiling, laughing, and breathless from all the running around.
• Give the gift of time. Have your partner open a card that tells them to hold a specific day, or days, just for you. You don’t have to let them know what surprise lies in store; only let them know that everything will be taken care of on those days, or nights. You can plan to have the kids go to another relatives, or spend some time at the babysitter, so you can both have some alone time. Draw up a bubble bath, share a bottle of wine, give your partner a massage… whatever you want. You can check for inexpensive events in your city for the following weeks, and buy tickets for another night. You can make them a nice meal on another, or breakfast in bed. Another favorite is to wake up early and deliver a loving card to their workplace before they get there, for a full work week. This is the gift that keeps giving. Many small touches equal up to one big, amazing, and unforgettable gift.

These are a couple suggestions on how to make a big impact without the big cost. You know your partner best, and I am sure these are only seeds. Other ideas will grow, and you’ll be able to deliver a personalized holiday experience that is sure to wow them.