If you are looking for the perfect Christmas gift this year, but do not want to spend a ton of money, you just need to use your imagination to come up with gift ideas that are both inexpensive and thoughtful. The following are some inexpensive holiday gifts that will sure to bring a smile on the recipient's when they receive your special gift on Christmas:

Trendy and Fun Watches

Several shapes, colors, sizes, and styles of watches are available for no more than $20.00 at most department stores. You should include a note with the watch that says "I enjoy spending time with you." Children can use these watches as gifts for their teachers, with a note saying "Thank you for the time you spent teaching me." These gifts are simple, yet very effective during the holiday season.

Customized Recipe Book

You can purchase a small photo album from a department or craft store, then print out pictures of your favorite recipes and write insert the recipe card in the album. You can also photocopy the recipes and images in order to make numerous recipe books for your family and friends. This is a great idea for the cooking and food lover on your Christmas list.

Gourmet Chocolate Covered Pretzels

You can either buy them pre-made at specialty candy stores for $20.00 a dozen, or you can make your own. The only ingredients you need are pretzels rods, chocolate, and decorations such as sprinkles, nuts, fruits, etc. Simply melt the chocolate in a large bowl, cover half of the pretzel with chocolate, and decorate until dry. You can arrange them in a special serving container or bowl for an extra effect.

Framed Name Prints

Use the internet and research the meanings of the recipient's name that you are giving the gift. Use a computer program and word processing program to type out a name in elegant font, and write the meaning of the name under it. Print it on pretty background paper that can be found at any craft store. Trim to fit a small frame purchased from a discount department store or craft store. Simple, yet very thoughtful gift.

Movie Night

A box of microwave popcorn, a box of chocolate candy, and a $10.00 gift certificate for a movie rental is all you need to give a movie night as a gift. You can add DVD's, or even a few gift certificates to a local movie theater.

Customized Ornaments

All you need to do is find a photo of your special someone, their pets, or children and insert the photo in the personalized ornament. These ornaments are available in most holiday stores and specialty outlets. They are inexpensive and come in a variety of styles and colors.

Customized Gift Card

You may be short on money this season, but you do not have to be short on sentiment. You can print out gift cards for running errands, washing cars, babysitting, or any other task that you may feel is necessary. You can also give a gift for a baked good or a dinner specially made from you.

Oversized Candy Bar

Purchase a giant candy bar from a specialty candy store and replace the wrapper with a personalized one. There are several different websites that allow you to customize a candy bar wrapper, and print it out for free. You can also create your own, since the possibilities of customizing this gift are endless.

A thoughtful Christmas gift doesn't have to cost a lot of money or require numerous time running around through crowded stores. The only thing you need is your imagination, creativity, and love.