Skip to main content
  1. Home
  2. About Elements
  3. News & Advice
  4. Advice
  5. Your Guide to Indy’s Budget-Friendly Gifting & Experiences

Back to Advice

Your Guide to Indy’s Budget-Friendly Gifting & Experiences

The holiday season is often a time of stress and high expectations. There's a sense of pressure to find the perfect gifts for your loved ones and it’s common to feel overwhelmed by how much you are spending on holiday shopping and events. 

That's why we're here with some new ideas for affordable traditions to start this year, unique local gift suggestions, and ways to celebrate the holiday season without overspending. 

New Traditions & Local Experiences

Closet Clear-Out: Begin your holiday preparations by decluttering your closets to make space for new items and gifts. Along the way, you might discover some items that are perfect for regifting to your friends and family.

Volunteer Time: Take your family out to volunteer, donate to a food drive, or sponsor a family in need during the holidays. This not only fosters a sense of togetherness but also helps those less fortunate.

Gift Exchange or Progressive Dinner: Instead of buying gifts for everyone in the family, consider organizing a gift exchange or a progressive dinner. This can reduce the stress of gift shopping and spread the joy of giving across the family.

Local Lights: Visit your neighborhood coffee shop for a seasonal beverage, and gather the family for a car ride to enjoy the festive holiday lights and decorations in your local area.

Group Holiday Experiences:  Remember, many people already have a lot of stuff and there are many other ways to show those you love you care this holiday season. Consider gifting experiences that your family or friends can enjoy together instead. That way, you aren’t overthinking about buying individually for each person.

Consider trying one of these holiday experiences in Indianapolis:

Holiday Shopping Tips & Local Recommendations

While the gesture of giving is nice, it's not about the price tag or trying to outdo others. What matters most is the thought and personal touch you put into your gifts. If you’re struggling to decide what to buy someone, consider using this Rule of 4: something they want, something they need, something to wear, and something to read. This guide will help you feel confident in finding unique, individualized gifts that won’t go to waste.

Consider holiday shopping at local businesses, so you can feel confident that your spending is contributing to your community. Being mindful of where your money is going will help you stay present on the reason for the season. 

For unique local Indianapolis gifts, explore these spots:

As the holiday season approaches, it’s important to remember that the season is not about spending a lot of money, but time with friends and family. By embracing these new traditions, unique local gifts, and experiences, you can make this holiday season one to remember without breaking the bank. 

Get more from your money with a High Interest Checking Account

Special Offer for New Accountholders Only — Earn 5.00% APY for 12 Months on balances up to $20,0001.

No monthly Maintenance Service Charge when enrolled in electronic statements. Visa® debit card with the convenience of paying at retailers with a tap, a swipe, or a chip.

Learn More

Recommended for You

Banking the Way You Want It

Mobile Banking App

  • Online banking & bill pay
  • Mobile check deposit

Download on the AppStore Get It on Google Play

Add our Card Control App

  • Added security for Elements credit and debit cards
  • Card lock technology
  • Card activity notifications

Download on the AppStore Get It on Google Play

  1. 1 Promo 5 High Interest Checking (Promo HINT) is a High Interest Checking account with blended rate tiers, meaning the stated dividend rate will be paid on the portion of the balance for each tier. Tier 1 earns a promotional 5.00% fixed Annual Percentage Yield (APY) on balances up to $20,000.00 for the first 12 months from the account opening date. *Tier 2 pays a blended APY ranging from 5.00% to 2.02% on balances from $20,000.01 to $50,000.00 and is variable and may change at any time without notice. To earn Tier 1 or Tier 2 dividend rates, 15 qualifying transactions must post per statement cycle on the account. The statement cycle includes all transactions posted after the last business day of the prior month through the last business day of the current month. Accounts not meeting the qualifying transaction threshold will earn 0.05% APY which is variable and may change at any time. Rates are accurate as of April 1, 2024. On the first day of the month following the account opening anniversary month, the Promo 5 High Interest Checking (Promo HINT) APY will automatically convert to the then current non-promotional High Interest Checking account APY which is variable and may change at any time without notice. Current High Interest Checking account holders, Promo 4 High Interest Checking account holders and those with any High Interest Checking accounts closed less than 180 days are not eligible. An existing High Interest Checking account cannot be converted to the Promo 5 High Interest Checking (Promo HINT) account. Limit one Promo 5 High Interest Checking (Promo HINT) account per person. Other qualifications may apply. Promotional offer may be discontinued at any time. Only the following are qualifying transactions: Debit card purchases, checks, bill payments, ATM withdrawals and ACH withdrawals. No other transactions qualify. At least one account holder must be at least 18 years old. Fees may reduce earnings.