With the current economy, and jobs being handed out sparingly, people have been finding it especially hard to make ends meet. Since the Holiday season is just around the corner, many are wondering what they can do to make sure everyone is happy with the gifts they receive.

Tip #1: Handmade Gifts

Something handmade and heartfelt shows more thought than a Best Buy gift card or a necklace from Claire's Boutique. What are some easy things to make? An easy, cute gift is a project called “Blooming Flower Pens.” This simple technique can make a unique and practical gift, and all the necessary items are easily found at craft stores like Michael’s.

Another gift you can make is homemade cookies! What a better way to show someone appreciation around the holidays than with cookies.

Tip #2: Finding Sales and Discounts

Holiday sales start even before the Holiday season. Keep an eye out for them since places like Macy’s and JC Penney’s always seem to have deep discounts in November and December.

A lot of other stores and web sites don't even need sales since their items are always affordable. Looking for something different? Try www.fredflare.com. This web site has everything from tweed blazers to an inflatable turkey.

Tip #3: Shop Locally

Many stores that are locally owned are likely to give discounts at the Holidays to entice local shoppers.

Third Street Stuff on North Limestone Street across from Sayre School is incredibly versatile, and hosts to a number of gift ideas. It even has a coffee shop in the back, so you can stop for a quick warm drink before you head out on your next shopping expedition.

Another off beat store on UK’s campus near Kennedy’s Book Store is Sqecial Media. They have a wide selection of eccentric books, and funny trinkets that are sure to cause a laugh.

How about music? Next door to Sqecial Media is CD Central, a locally owned music store that carries hits from every genre imaginable.

Tip #4: Give Online Gifts

For Facebook fans who play FarmVille,“gifting” your neighbors is probably something you do quite often. So why not “Gift” more often around the Holidays? You can choose gifts ranging from a violet hay bale to a horse. Other cool Internet gifts you can give are e-cards or Jib-Jab “sendables.” Both are an easy and free outlet for giving gifts.

All of these ideas are extremely simple to lay your hands (or your mouse) on, and hopefully these tips will make your Holiday shopping much more enjoyable.