That little something

The Dow has brought a new low to the word “down.” However, don’t fret as pundits all forecast a better 2010 ahead. Unlike many who have moved from vast amounts of bubble money to negative balance sheets, I have been in a constant state of fiscal trial. This has forced me to get creative.

This year it’s really the thought that counts and, well, pretty much most people don’t have a choice. So make it matter. Here are a few tips to keep your Christmas jolly even if your pockets aren’t jingling.

Edit that list. Okay, so don’t try to make a statement by adding frenemies to your list. It’s time to get real. Give personalized Christmas cards with a thoughtful note inside for each. I usually like having mine made with my dog wearing a Santa hat. Wrap a satin bow around the envelope for a more festive look. Add a beautifully wrapped chocolate bon-bon in fours, like from Chef Laudico available at Bistro Filipino. It is an added extra if you donate something under their name.

Add a bundle of little somethings for something extraordinary. A book with a small bag of jellybeans and a funny coffee mug, for example, goes a long way when it comes to letting your best friend know you’re thinking of them. Make it personal and intimate, or symbolic things that will remind you of your friendship.

 Wrap your gifts in some elegant paper and ribbon. It need not be expensive; last year I used some white wax paper and hot pink and black satin bows, with a little silver acorn accent all bought from Divisoria. Not exactly typical Christmas colors but when the gift is a little humble let it be remembered by how it was delivered. Also I suggest using cool cards instead of typical Christmas gift tags. This year I’m using images of cupcakes because they are happy and much more memorable than — yet again — another snowflake card. My friend once sent me a Christmas gift wrapped in old phone directory pages with all the “Lopezes” listed on it. Genius.

Nix the anonymous gift. Clinton Palanca once said that candles were the new fruitcake. Don’t be the sad woman with the scented candles; add some kick to this lifestyle must-have by adding some fancy matches. Rustan’s carries long-stemmed matches in daintily-printed boxes. Pair it with a simple citronella candle available in the supermarket, tie the two together with a ribbon and pat yourself on the back.

Make a mix CD for your posse. It’s always a welcome treat to anyone’s music library and if you purchase some stickers or a CD decal, it looks like the ultimate bespoke present. For officemates and work colleagues, try not to make the mix too personal; good choices are bossa nova Christmas songs or ‘80s music!