Make a budget. I get a lot of freebie advice from debt-counseling outfits and financial advisers, and this one always tops the list. It's pretty obvious and makes perfect sense. So decide how much you're willing to spend overall, and then break the total down for each person on the list. And don't forget incidentals, such as new clothes for holiday parties, or gas and tolls to visit grandma.
Credit cards are convenient, too convenient.
And they charge usurious interest rates. It's easier to control spending if you're watching a bankroll melt before your eyes. Of course, cash doesn't give you airline miles, but they aren't a very good deal anyway. Keep a tally. OK, so you've ignored everything I've said so far.