IOU vouchers - nice idea or a bit naff?

[KikkiK]

I'm unemployed just now and have very little money for Christmas gifts. My family are not doing presents this year so there are only a few close friends that I'd like to give something to.

I've recently moved back to Scotland after living down south for the last few years and will now be able to see my friends here more often. So I was thinking of giving them IOU vouchers for us to do nice things together throughout the year - things like 'IOU afternoon tea', or a glass of wine, or a movie night. That way I can save up to treat them when I am a bit less strapped for cash and it gives us both something to look forward to.

What would you think if you got something like this? Would you like it or would you rather have a small gift like bubble bath or a candle? Or I could make fudge or something for them but one girl is on a diet for her wedding so I don't really want to put temptation in her way! Please help me decide what to do!

Sounds like a nice idea as long as you personalise it to the person.

I once gave a friend a homemade voucher for a free nights babysitting as she struggled to get out having three young children and it was very much appreciated.

If you know something they will love then offering your time can be a lot more valuable than money.

I think it's nice as long as you make sure they take it some time rather than it being forgotten, I think I'd rather have that than a small gift that's not so special. It's all about spending time with people really, and especially if you've been away for a bit to prioritise the people you care about is a lovely thing.

Yes, plipplops, that was one of my worries - it could end up being a bit of an empty gesture if we don't manage to get together to do whatever it is. Will just have to pin them down on dates I guess!

And thanks Rottie - one of my friends had a baby recently so a babysitting voucher is a great idea!

I think it's fine and know a few people who have done this. I think it's better tho, if it's for things you actually do, rather than you will save some money later in the year to buy them something you can't afford now.

So like Kik says, baysitting, or gardening, or something like that, rather than 'I will buy you something in a few months, that I just can't afford to buy right now'.

D

i would love a babysitting voucher more than any present you could buy me :)lovely idea,