A gift closet comes in handy when you’ve been invited to an event that you need a gift for. What about the last minute birthday parties or even those that you have plenty of notice for. So, what is a gift closet and how do you start one? Well, it’s actually quite simple and is something that you can add to as time goes on.
What is a Gift Closet?
A gift closet is simply an area in your home (under a bed, in a closet, in a cabinet, wherever) where you store gifts that you’ve purchased throughout the year as you find the best deals. Gift closets are essential to saving money on gifts because you don’t have to pass up a good deal.
How to Create a Gift Closet
Pick a Designated Area
You don’t want to go overboard but you want to have gifts in the closet so that when the time comes, you have choices. First, you’ll want to find that designated area in your home. Maybe you have extra shelves somewhere, or maybe a plastic tote that you store in the guest bedroom.
Make a List
Next, you’ll want to make a list of the upcoming holidays – birthdays, weddings, baby showers, Christmas, etc. as well as a list of those that you’ll need to purchase for.
Having this list will help you stay organized and know what you need to add to the gift closet. Here’s a FREE printable gift list. Simply click the image below or HERE for a PDF of this gift list.
Keep Wrapping Supplies Handy
Ideally, you would want to keep your wrapping supplies in the closet or in the same area as your gifts. This not only makes it easy to wrap the gifts, but it also helps you to know which items you need to replenish. You can purchase these after each holiday to score the best deal. Always have cards on hand (like these) — for every occasion.
Miscellaneous Gifts
You’ve got gifts in your gift closet for those on your list, but what about those last minute things that pop up like a friend’s birthday party? You’ll want to have miscellaneous gifts in the closet for these occasions too. Your kids will love to help ‘shop’ for gifts from the closet.
Stock Your Closet
You don’t need to rush to the store and purchase gifts right now, but keep your eye out for good deals like clearance in stores and online. Several times a year, items go on sale. This is the best time to stock your gift closet on the cheap. Also, these all don’t have to be large items, you’ll want some smaller items too like books or ‘stocking stuffers’ in there as well. I make it a point to check the clearance aisles at stores like Target and Walmart, or looking for coupons for stores like Michael’s and Hobby Lobby. Also, I make it a point to check the Amazon Deals of the Day page every morning.
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Wednesday 5th of December 2018
[…] cash is always needed, right? How do you control your spending during the holiday season? I shop year ’round for gifts and keep an eye on […]
Renee Rousseau
Monday 7th of August 2017
I have a gift "spare room" that my family calls "Renee's store"! I love to shop for gift bargains all year and "always be prepared"!
Julie Hansen
Sunday 6th of August 2017
Such a great idea!
Jo-Ann Brightman
Friday 4th of August 2017
These are all great ideas. Although I have followed many of your tips I have not created my own gift closet and I think that it is a wonderful idea. Thanks.