Spending and Saving

Unemployment-Friendly Gifts: For Dad

I was laid off in October, but the idea of entering my Mom’s house on Christmas Day empty-handed feels worse than charging up my credit card. So we’ve come up with a list of thoughtful, unique gifts for every friend and family member. The best part? They’re all inexpensive.

Dad: Something Practical-But-Entertaining

Of course he doesn’t want a tie, but what does Dad really want? Let your mom take care of the standard stuff—like clothes and tools—and peruse the quirky Web site Think Geek for some out-of-the-box ideas. We like this Gorillapod, a lightweight tripod that will secure his compact digital camera to just about anything and starts at just $20. Because of its flexible joints, it doesn’t require an elevated flat surface to take pictures.

1st Day of Gifts: Stationery for Mom

Tomorrow: Make your grandparents proud.

Lauren Sherman is a Brooklyn, N.Y.-based journalist. She’s been covering the fashion, retail and luxury industries since 2004. She founded The Fashion Beat in Oct. 2009 after working for four years at Forbes.

Tags: gifts, holidays, shopping