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What Small Business Needs to Know About Mobile Payments

Admin — Thu, 02 May 2013 14:12:13 +0000

If you weren't already aware, the way people pay for your products is about to change. Mobile payments, where consumers use their cellphones to pay for goods and services, are expected to total $60 billion by 2016, according to eMarketer. Some of the biggest companies in the world are racing to create technologies that let people store and transfer funds from their phones. Google, Apple, four of the major credit card companies and the major wireless carriers are all developing various platforms that will enable consumers to essentially toss out their billfolds in favor of their cellphones. So, what does this mean for you as a small business owner, and what do you need to do to prepare?

What’s in it for you

Depending on which "mobile wallet" technologies end up earning adoption, small businesses may stand to reap a lot of benefits. Financially, you could save on traditional credit card processing fees, as some of the wallet providers are proposing different fee structures that could be more beneficial to smaller operations. There's also the potential for your business to work with the mobile payment service providers to integrate your promotions into their technologies. For instance, a customer could discover your business through a mobile payment app, and then receive a coupon, pay for a transaction and sign up for your loyalty program or email/text list all within that single app. But, there is a downside. Chances are this transition from traditional cash and credit card payments to mobile payments will require new (and possibly expensive) point-of-sale hardware. The two dominant technologies currently driving many mobile payment services are Near Field Communications, or NFC, and cloud-based technologies. NFC, a technology that Google is betting on, involves the use of a chip on a cellphone that has the ability to communicate wirelessly with a terminal at checkout. Cloud-based mobile payment services, favored by companies like PayPal, consist of an app on a smartphone, which consumers would use to complete a transaction (for instance, by entering a PIN from a receipt to complete the transaction). Cloud-based systems typically involve much less hardware for business owners, but will likely bring extra costs in the form of software setup and system integration.

What you need to know today

Most experts peg mass adoption of mobile payment systems as three to five years away. That means you don’t need to rush out to purchase an expensive point-of-sale system, such as a special bar code scanner or an NFC terminal. And while cloud-based systems and NFC technologies seem to be in the lead, we’re not yet at a point where you need to place all your chips on the side of any particular mobile wallet solution – most are just now beta testing their products. Instead, look to what your own customers are doing today for direction. According to Nielsen, 39 percent of smartphone owners who were mobile shoppers during third quarter 2012 used mobile coupons on their devices; 45 percent read reviews before buying; and 61 percent researched items before a purchase. Consider taking advantage of this real-time marketing opportunity by engaging them with mobile coupons and text marketing. It can help you cultivate and maintain a base of customers accustomed to interacting with your brand through their phones. And that interaction could facilitate a smoother transition for your business, and your customers, when critical mass hits and the majority of the population is paying for their purchases through their mobile devices. Have questions about mobile payment systems, or how you can engage your customers through mobile? Let me know in the comments. Brandon Carter is the marketing communications manager for Access Development, a Salt Lake City-based provider of merchant content for loyalty and rewards programs. Click here to learn more about Access. Recommended by the Editors:

Not All Smoke Alarms are Equal: Knowing the Difference Could Save Your Life

Admin — Wed, 03 Apr 2013 11:08:11 +0000

You change the batteries in your smoke alarms twice a year, and test them every month. But do you know what type of smoke alarms you have? Or, that having one kind over another can make a difference in getting out safely in a home fire? There are two chief smoke alarm types, and each has a sensor that detects smoke and fire differently depending on the origin of the fire.

Ionization vs. photoelectric smoke alarms

The most common smoke alarm type, Ionization alarms are generally more responsive to a flaming fire ( for instance, when a lit candle tips over and ignites a towel), according to Underwriters Laboratories. These alarms use "ions," or electrically charged particles, to detect smoke in the air. UL says that, because they are inexpensive, ionization detectors are the most commonly found smoke alarms in North American homes. The second type of detector is the photoelectric smoke alarm, which uses a light beam to detect the presence of smoke. According to UL, these alarm types are more effective at sounding when a fire originates from a smoldering source, like a lit cigarette that falls into a couch cushion. Smoldering fires can fill a home with dangerous gases before a fire ever erupts.

Which smoke alarm type is best?

So, which alarm to choose? While both types of smoke detectors are designed to detect any house fire, no matter the source, each technology has its advantages and can offer an earlier warning over the other, depending on the origin of a fire. The challenge is that it's impossible to predict which type of fire could erupt in your home, which is why the National Fire Protection Association says the best protection is offered by having both alarm technologies in your home. There are a couple of ways to get this done. If your existing detectors are ionization smoke alarms, you can purchase photoelectric smoke alarms and install one next to each ionization unit. If you don't know what type you have, check your owner's manual. (Or, try this tip: Take the smoke alarm down and look at the back. Because ionization alarms all contain a trace amount of a radioactive material, Americium 241, they contain a warning about the material on each alarm. If you see this warning on your device, you have an ionization unit.) Another option: If budget allows, consider replacing all of your existing smoke alarms with dual-sensor devices, which combine both ionization and photoelectric technologies in a single unit.

Maintenance is key, regardless of type

Knowing the type of smoke alarm you have is clearly an important part of fire safety, but experts also warn that, regardless of type, smoke alarms won't protect you if they're not working properly. According to UL, an estimated 20 percent of homes have detectors that do not work or are missing batteries, and two-thirds of reported residential fire deaths occur in homes without working smoke alarms, or with no smoke alarms at all. So, start by making sure you have the right number of smoke alarms in the right places. The NFPA recommends a smoke detector in every bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area and on every level of your home (smoke rises, so install them high on the walls). Then, set reminders to swap out the batteries on each unit at least once a year, and to test the units monthly. Are your smoke alarms ready to alert you to a home fire? Recommended by the editors:

Things To Know About Well Water Before You Buy a Home

Admin — Tue, 26 Mar 2013 11:49:47 +0000

When you are thinking of buying a new home, there are many details to consider: Financing, the condition of the home, schools in the area and the quality of the neighborhood, property taxes, insurance, whether all of your furniture will fit. And the water. You will drink, shower, clean, flush, brush and wash with the water in your new home every day. So, what do you need to think about if that prospective home operates on a private well? The majority of homes today have a municipal water source that is regulated by government and Environmental Protection Agency health standards. In these cases, the homeowner has little need to be overly involved in the health and safety of their water. But that changes a bit when your home has its own water source. And some prospective homeowners may not be comfortable making that shift from a home with a municipal water supply to one with its own private water source. If your prospective home has well water, you are not alone. According to the EPA, 15 percent of Americans rely on individually owned and operated sources of drinking water. Here are some tips derived from the EPA for managing a home with a private well:

Research common water problems in your area

If you are moving to a completely new area, it is a good idea to reach out to your local water expert for information on local water problems. The EPA website is also a good resource for local water problems. This way, you will be proactive in preserving the taste and safety of your drinking water.

Find out your state’s well water regulations and recommendations

States vary on policies and regulations for private well water owners. Check with your local water expert or local health department for your state’s policies or guidelines on water testing. In some states, like Colorado, you may need to obtain a permit for your private well. In other states, like New Jersey, it is required by law for a seller to perform a water test and disclose results to potential buyers.

Get the water tested by a trusted local professional

Local water professionals can do an in-home water test for certain contaminants, but some recommended well water tests require a full lab analysis. Your local water professional can help guide you through the most appropriate testing for your home.

Have test results interpreted by someone who knows local water conditions

Make sure your local water expert clearly explains the results of your water test, especially if you are new to well water.

Learn your options if your water does contain contaminants

Many contaminants in well water can easily be reduced with water softeners, drinking water filters or other water treatment systems. If your water does contain a contaminant, reach out to a local water expert who will be able to determine the best option for you in your area.

Set up a regular water testing schedule for your home

The EPA recommends private well water tests once a year for total coliform bacteria, nitrates, total dissolved solids and pH levels. The EPA also recommends an extra well water test every two to three years for tannins, hardness, chloride and copper. Potential contamination can occur naturally, or as a result of human activity.

Keep a record of your water tests and any problems that occur

It is a good idea to keep water test results on file. This will allow you to reference them to help identify when a problem began and determine a potential cause. This will also help answer questions from prospective buyers if you ever sell the home. If you are planning on moving to a home with well water, finding a water expert to help you is one of the easiest and best things you can do to ensure your water is healthy and safe. When choosing a water expert, make sure they are Water Quality Association-certified, work in your area and understand local water problems. Check with your local health department, your neighbors or search for your local water treatment company for suggestions on water experts in your area. Becoming educated in well water safety will be beneficial to the maintenance and longevity of your new home! Jim Stewart is the Director of Commercial & Industrial Sales and Dealer Support for Culligan. He has 25 years of Culligan experience that includes the residential, commercial and industrial markets. Recommended by the editors:

5 Quick & Easy Strategies to Save More for Retirement

Admin — Wed, 13 Mar 2013 11:00:39 +0000

According to the Employee Benefit Research Institute, almost one-third of all Americans have less than $1,000 set aside for retirement and more than half have less than $10,000. This is surprising in light of the fact that many experts warn that your future Social Security income--a traditional form of retirement income--may not be enough. Saving for retirement, or saving more, is really not something to put off. Consider these five strategies to boost your retirement portfolio today: 1. Put Yourself on a Budget If you don't know where you are financially, you'll have a hard time getting to where you want to be. The solution is to budget, and it's easier than you might think. Use an online tool, such as Mint, or simply list all of your income and expenses in a spreadsheet or on paper. True, collecting your monthly statements, such as credit card and bank statements, and bills, may take a few minutes, but it's worth the effort. Then, review your expenses to see where you can cut back, and set monthly limits for each spending category. Deposit what you save into a Roth or traditional IRA, or increase your contribution to your 401(k) at work. 2. Clip Coupons to Save on Groceries According to the Department of Agriculture, the average American household spends as much as $1,200 per month on food. This means that if you reduce your food bill by 20 percent, you could save almost $3,000 per year. One good way to save is to clip coupons. Even if you don't take it to the extreme, regular couponing can translate into serious savings. Check the Sunday paper for coupons, sign up for your grocery store's loyalty program, and match coupons to in-store sales and incentives to get the biggest bang for your buck. 3. Generate Extra Income Consider reallocating the time you spend watching TV or posting on Facebook. You might consider selling unneeded items on the Internet, or even filling out paid surveys online. Or consider starting your own consulting business specializing in an area of your expertise. 4. Review Your Monthly Bills Review all of your monthly bills and look for ways to cut back, including negotiating extra fees and charges. Also, use the Internet to research less expensive options for your cable TV, cell phone and other monthly services. If you're not currently bundling, investigate this option, too. 5. Eliminate Credit Card Debt According to the Federal Reserve, the average American carries roughly $7,000 in credit card debt, which can result in significant interest payments. Consider your credit card's APR and the amount you end up paying every year in interest, and think how much you could save by paying off your credit card debt. Final Thoughts There are two chief components to saving more for retirement: One is to save more money, and the other is to actually deposit what you save into a designated retirement account. If you haven't already, open an IRA, a Roth IRA (if you qualify), or deposit more of your income into your 401(k) at work. A great way not to be tempted to spend what you save is to set up automatic deposits into your retirement account on a monthly basis. Remember, if you make early withdrawals (before you turn 59 1/2) from a 401(k) or traditional IRA you may be penalized. However, you can withdraw contributions made into a Roth IRA at any time without penalty. What other ways to save more for retirement can you share? David Bakke is a contributor for MoneyCrashers.com. He was once buried in more than $30,000 of credit card debt, and now shares his story and tips for smart money management. Recommended by the editors:

How a Small Business Can Attract a Big Corporate Client

Admin — Tue, 12 Mar 2013 11:00:55 +0000

A common question that growing small businesses face is “How can I sell my products and services to large corporate customers?” That was the topic of a panel discussion at the Supplier Diversity Exchange hosted by Allstate Insurance Company last fall. Attended by 35 different companies, the exchange offered small businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans and members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender community a forum for guidance, networking, and personal one-on-one time with Allstate professionals involved in purchasing services and supplies. Whether it’s for Allstate or any other corporation, here are the recommendations underscored at the exchange—solid tips that just might help you land your first big client:

Be Prepared.

Preparation was touched on time and time again at the Allstate exchange. Before meeting with a potential customer, you need to do a good amount of intelligence work. Do you understand the culture of the organization? Its pain points? Do you have a product or service it actually needs? Are you up against an incumbent? To get the information you need, try joining professional organizations, networking, and, of course, doing research on the company’s website and social media channels.

Differentiate.

Panelists at the Allstate exchange explained that a well-constructed pitch to a potential corporate customer should explain the benefit your specific organization will bring. Point out where you can add value and how you’ll help the company meet its goals. Are you fast? Nimble? Many large corporations aren't. Does your small size mean that you can provide more customized service? Make note of that. Your point of differentiation can even be something as simple as the way you invoice. Just don’t oversell your product, services or capabilities. A seasoned professional can see right through that, panelists said.

Build a Relationship.

Being persistent and following up is a good strategy, but being too pushy and confident can also be a turn-off. Panelists at the Allstate exchange suggested that you try to set a time-frame for appropriate check-ins (if your contact is unwilling or, worse yet, not responding to your inquiries, it might not be a good sign). When you do circle back, take it as an opportunity to share thoughts on what’s occurring in the industry, what’s happening with competitors, and to mention a recent award or accomplishment. Even if your products or services are not what a corporation is looking for at the present time, it doesn't mean that will also be the case in the future. By simply engaging in a collaborative discussion with a corporation, you may be setting yourself up for future success. Launched in 2008, Allstate’s Supplier Diversity Exchange has resulted in more than 100 suppliers competing for a bid, with over 60 having won business. Since the launch of the exchange of 2008, $1.5 billion has been spent with diverse suppliers, $425 million of that with exchange attendees. If you’re a small business owner, consider attending Allstate’s 2013 Supplier Diversity Exchange (date still pending). Recommended by the editors:

4 Steps to Take Before Renting Out Your Home

Admin — Mon, 07 May 2012 13:04:30 +0000

My friends like to joke that my husband and I are on the path to becoming professional landlords. When we got married, we decided to buy a townhouse together and rent out the condo I lived in when I was single. But now that we have a one-year-old son and enough toys to stock the entire neighborhood, things are a little snug. If we sold our townhouse right now, it would be a miracle just to break even. So, we’re thinking of turning our place into a second rental property while we upgrade to something bigger. Because we’ve been through this process before, getting ready to rent a property doesn’t seem so daunting. Here are a few steps we’ll make sure to take this time:

1. Stick to those you know

Before we rented out the condo, my first instinct was to post ads anywhere and everywhere—Craigslist, our local alternative newspaper, the coffee shop around the corner, you name it. But I soon realized that I wanted some connection to our renters. We began reaching out to friends who (we hoped!) would point us toward reliable tenants. When that didn’t work, we sent emails to coworkers and tapped into our social media networks to cast a wider net. Over the years, this strategy has worked fairly well. Also, the interview process and background checks are very importantOur tenants have been awesome, and we have yet to encounter major problems with rent payments or property damage.

2. Find a Jack of all trades

As a landlord, you’ll have the inevitable leaky faucets and broken fixtures to deal with. But after weeks of tracking down a hodgepodge of electricians, plumbers, and miscellaneous maintenance workers, it became apparent that creating my own team of experts wasn’t the most practical approach. We’ve found it makes more sense to have one well-rounded handyman who can tackle a number of problems around the property. Since this person will be spending a lot of time at your rental, be sure it’s someone you can trust. Try asking around for recommendations or looking at websites like Angie’s List for local reviews.

3. Keep yourself covered

There are specific policies tailored to the risks landlords face. Many of these policies not only cover property damage but can help you recoup rental income lost as a result of that damage.

When we first rented out the condo, I figured our homeowners policy would safeguard us in case of any damage to our place. However, I learned that there are specific policies tailored to the risks landlords face. Many of these policies not only cover property damage but can help you recoup rental income lost as a result of that damage. In addition, they can help financially protect you if someone gets injured on your property. We haven’t needed to make a claim yet—knock on wood!—but it helps us sleep at night knowing we’ve covered our bases.

4. Make plans to check in

Your renters may be very considerate, but they won’t care for your property like an owner would. Little things like a small leak may go unmentioned until they turn into a massive flood. That’s why it’s important to check in from time to time and see whether anything needs to be taken care of. While we never show up at the condo unannounced, we do make an excuse to visit at least once every few months. Our handyman replaces the HVAC filter a couple times a year, so my husband or I often accompany him so that we can take a look around. One time, we located a small mold growth that could easily have turned into something much worse. Though being a landlord isn’t always easy, you can reduce your number of headaches with a little planning. While we know there’s anything but smooth sailing ahead, being a landlord isn’t nearly as hard as we thought it would be.

Valentine’s Day on a Budget

Admin — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 23:26:42 +0000

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner and it’s hard to not get caught up in the flood of red and pink hearts and Cupid’s arrows in flight. When my husband and I first started dating, I had all sorts of ideas about what would await me on February 14—an exotic trip, fancy dinner and myself dripping in brand-new diamonds. But reality sunk in as I realized that neither of us had the funds or free time to search out such extravagant gifts. Here are a few ways I learned to manage my expectations for Valentine’s Day as our relationship matured:

Think realistically

The film industry is saturated with sweeping gestures—blaring a boombox outside a bedroom window, public serenades from football stadium bleachers, scaling a fire escape to declare undying love—all of which look beautiful on the big screen but aren’t something you’d encounter in everyday life. Looking to chick flicks for clues about what your significant other might surprise you with this Valentine’s Day will likely leave you disappointed. Instead, try focusing on the little things he or she does day-to-day to show their love.

Make it meaningful

Classic Valentine’s Day gifts like diamond jewelry, rose bouquets and couture perfume can add up quickly—and while they’re nice to look at, don’t always convey the importance of your relationship as well as less expensive gifts can. In lieu of something fancy, suggest that you each create a homemade gift, such as a photo album of your favorite pictures together or a personalized coupon book.

A few years ago, my husband (then-boyfriend) and I celebrated the occasion by re-creating our first date at home—he made a simplified version of the dinner we ate at an Italian bistro and rented a DVD of the movie we saw in the theatre. You may also want to consider combining efforts to splurge on an experience you can share, such as a couple’s cooking class or day trip to a nearby park.

Say it simply

Last year, we scrapped gifts altogether and each used the hour we would have spent shopping to write a list of things we love about the other person. This was so much fun—and gave me a chance to really think back on the wonderful memories we’ve shared through the years. Then, we read our lists aloud during a cozy dinner at home. I couldn’t have asked for a more perfect present—and it didn’t cost us a penny.

Sometimes, less truly is more. By shifting the focus from what your loved one will bring you this Valentine’s Day to what they bring to your life every day, you may find this to be your happiest couple’s holiday yet. And if he does go big for some diamond earrings, make sure those beauties are insured.

The post Valentine’s Day on a Budget appeared first on The Allstate Blog.

Market Yourself for a Promotion…and More Money

Admin — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 18:49:35 +0000

When I first started with my company, I put in a lot of late hours and weekends trying to master my new role—and prove they’d hired the right person. Eventually, I learned the ins and outs of my job and regained my personal life. This was great for a while, but as time passed, I missed that feeling of being challenged each day. Plus, I knew that earning a larger salary would help me meet the financial goals I had for the next few years, like buying a home and new car.

In today’s job market and economy, it seems there are only two ways to increase your salary: Switch jobs to a higher-paying position, or ask for a promotion. Few and far between are the times when people are given raises simply based upon performance or cost-of-living increases. You’ve either got to ask for it, or go find it. I’ve never been the type of person to wait for good things to happen but I also wanted to stay with my employer, so I decided to work toward the promotion I wanted. Here a few tips that helped me move up the company ladder:

Highlight your contributions

In order to make a move up the ladder, you’ve got to show your co-workers and supervisors you’ve got what it takes. You don’t want to brag, but don’t downplay your successes, either. During weekly status meetings with my boss, I made sure to mention goals I’d helped my team reach since our last meeting and future benchmarks I planned to meet. This helped show that I had the potential to take on more responsibility—and do so with confidence!

Don’t be shy about career goals

Your chances of a promotion improve dramatically if someone actually knows you’d like one. Use a little word-of-mouth marketing and, when appropriate, talk about your goals with your boss and other co-workers. Just be sure to keep the focus on your desire to be challenged and grow in your role with the company, not on your desire to earn more money. Also, see if someone higher up would be interested in mentoring you. Before my promotion, I had lunch with a senior co-worker once a month to discuss my progress. She helped me see work situations in a totally new light—and provided a ton of constructive advice.

Dress for the job you want

Whether your aspiration stems from wanting a larger salary—one to help you save for a new car or the home of your dreams—or you’d just like more responsibility, put some thought toward the job you see yourself doing a year or two from now. Then, start acting the part. I took cues from people who had the position I wanted, taking a look at how they dressed, spoke with other employees, and contributed to meetings and brainstorm sessions. I also tried to show leadership skills in less formal ways, such as helping to organize the company’s holiday party. While it took a few months for my “strategy” to pay off, I’m glad that I took control of my career instead of waiting for someone else to notice my hard work. Now, when I get up in the morning, I’m not exactly sure what to expect—but I wouldn’t have it any other way.

4 Tips for Choosing a Family Car

Admin — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 22:47:45 +0000

My husband has always been crazy about cars. So when he wanted to buy a sleek two-door sports car to celebrate a big promotion a few years ago—I gave him the green light. Though it’s somewhat impractical, I have to admit that I fell in love with the car, too.

But now that having kids is on our horizon, we’re on the hunt for a vehicle that’s a bit more car-seat friendly. While skimming websites and visiting local dealerships, we’ve learned what’s important when it comes to purchasing a car for our family—and, unfortunately, that wind-in-my-hair feeling isn’t one of them. Living through that process allows us to make some solid, family-friendlyrecommendations:

Set a vehicle budget

From doctor visits to college funds, planning for a baby is expensive. Though looking at flashier cars has been tempting, we decided to stick with vehicles slightly below our budget limit. We never mention our target price until required. When we do finally talk numbers, we stay focused on the total cost of the vehicle—not the amount of monthly payments. This strategy makes it easier for us to stick to the number we landed on, as opposed to stretching out the loan-payback period so we can buy a more expensive car.

Don’t fall in love with a single model

Try not to let emotions rule such an important investment. By focusing on only one car, no matter how much you love it, you may deter yourself from vehicles that better suit your needs. You could also miss out on alternative vehicles with better ratings, reviews and reliability. Compare several different models and assess your real wants and needs. (Looking into reviews from Consumer Reports can be a great place to start.) This is also a perfect opportunity to test drive a variety of cars. My husband’s favorite part of buying a car, the test drive is your best chance to see how a vehicle measures up to your expectations and whether it’s a fit for your family.

Think everyday and long-term use

Families are always changing, so it’s hard to determine what will be important to you a few years down the road. Still, buying a new car whenever your life changes doesn’t make a lot of financial sense. Before deciding on a car, think about the changes you expect your family to go through during the car’s lifespan. Your daily routine is important, too. If that includes dropping children off at day care or sitting in traffic as you head to the office, good fuel economy and city maneuverability may matter more than having a surplus of storage space.

Make car safety a priority

With the precious cargo we plan to add to our lives, safety is our number-one priority. Car safety features have evolved through the years, so if you’re juggling work and family, consider vehicles with special safety features like voice command or hands-free calling. You may also want to think about high-tech models that have rearview cameras, blind spot monitoring and antilock breaks. As a bonus, some safety features could save you money on car insurance. Just because you’re starting a family doesn’t mean you have to settle for a mom-mobile. With a little research and careful planning, you can find a vehicle that’s both practical for your family and perfect for you.

Keep Your Spending Under Budget this Holiday Season

Admin — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 18:47:03 +0000

As a newlywed, I couldn’t wait to reach the milestones of our first holiday season as husband and wife—picking out our first Christmas tree, making our place a winter wonderland and spending night after cozy night sitting by the fire.

But after several years of dating, I was feeling tapped out when it came to holiday gift ideas for my husband. And to top it off, the number of people I needed to buy for doubled with my in-laws added to the mix. Since I love holiday shopping, I was worried about going overboard with twice the gifts on my “to-buy” list. Yet by putting a few simple rules in place, I managed to stay in control and under budget that first holiday season. Here are some ways I kept things practical: Think outside the box (store) To avoid long retail lines—and ballooning debt—I stuck to homemade gifts whenever I could. I knew my husband’s mothers and sisters loved to spend time in the kitchen, so I decided to roll with a cooking theme for their presents. I bought some high-quality photo albums they could use to store recipe cards, personalized the covers and wrapped up each one with a set of decorative measuring spoons. Making the recipe books was a fun art project for me, and the women in his family absolutely loved them! When it came to my father-in-law, however, things were a little tougher. After playing 20 questions with my husband, I learned that one of his dad’s favorite activities is relaxing on the couch with a good book. So I put together a little package of reading essentials for him to enjoy. I shopped around online for some great deals on non-fiction books and added a nice leather bookmark, along with a small bag of his favorite coffee. Set a price limit Unfortunately, not every gift I planned to get was something I could make at home. So, to keep my spending on track, I set a price limit of $60 for each present I purchased. I found that creating this cost ceiling was a great way to enjoy the hustle and bustle of holiday shopping without letting myself go too crazy. Using a popular group deal site, I was able to get my husband a gift certificate to a downtown restaurant he’d wanted to try for ages—and still had enough money to make him a framed copy of our wedding vows. Simplify shopping with a name drawing Since my siblings and I were all getting older (and many of us had big expenses around the corner), my mom suggested that we have a name drawing to cut down on the number of gifts we’d buy for the coming holiday. We decided that each of us would draw one family member’s name, putting us in charge of only one gift apiece. With a combination of coupons and extensive comparison shopping, I was able to get my sister the cozy pair of winter boots she’d had her eye on. She couldn’t have been more thrilled. In fact, the name drawing was such a success that we’ve kept it going in the couple of years since! There are so many things to look forward to during the holidays—and feeling overwhelmed by a pricey list of presents isn’t one of them. By focusing on thoughtful gifts that stay within your budget, you can have a happy, healthy holiday that doesn’t break the bank.