Category Archives: Holiday and Seasonal Finances

Secret Santa Turned Scam: What to Know About the “Secret Sister” Gift Exchange

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The holidays are a time for generosity, connection, and giving back – which is exactly why scammers ramp up their activity this time of year. One scheme that resurfaces every holiday season is the “Secret Sister” gift exchange scam, often disguised as a Secret Santa-style tradition on social media.

While the idea sounds harmless and festive, this “gift exchange” is actually an illegal pyramid scheme designed to benefit only a few people at the top, while leaving most participants with empty hands and in some cases – lost money.

Here’s how the scam works, what to watch out for, and how to protect yourself and your family.

What Is the “Secret Sister” Scam?

This scam typically appears on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. A post usually invites you to join a gift exchange where you’ll:

  • Send one gift (often $10–$20 in value) to a stranger.
  • Add your name to a list.
  • Share the post with friends so more gifts come back to you.

The promise? If enough people join, you’ll receive multiple gifts in return.

In reality, very few participants ever receive anything. The system only works for the first few people at the top, making it a classic pyramid scheme – which is illegal in the U.S.

Why This Scam is So Dangerous

While it may seem like “just a gift,” this scam can lead to:

  • Financial loss.
  • Sharing personal information with strangers.
  • Increased risk of identity theft.
  • Friends unintentionally scamming friends.

Even worse, many people unknowingly help spread the scam by reposting it.

Common Red Flags to Watch Out For

If you see a post that includes any of the following, proceed with extreme caution:

  • Promises of receiving multiple gifts in return for sending just one.
  • Being asked to send a gift to someone you don’t know.
  • Instructions to copy and paste the post exactly as it appears.
  • Requests to share in multiple groups.
  • Pressure to act quickly.

If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is!

What to Do if You See the Scam

If you encounter a “Secret Sister” post:

  1. Do not participate.
  2. Do not share the post.
  3. Report the post on the social platform.
  4. Let the person who posted it know, as they may not realize it’s a scam.

Helping to stop the spread protects others in your community, too.

How First Financial Helps Keep You Safe

At First Financial, protecting your financial well-being is our top priority. Our team is always here to help you:

  • Spot common scams and fraud trends.
  • Secure your accounts.
  • Understand safe ways to give during the holidays.
  • Recover as quickly as possible if suspicious activity occurs.

If you ever have questions about a suspicious message or payment request – contact us right away. It’s always better to ask if you are unsure, than to risk your financial security.

The Bottom Line

The “Secret Sister” scam thrives during the season of giving because it taps into trust, generosity, and community – but true holiday spirit should never come with financial risk. This year, protect yourself and your loved ones by staying informed, trusting your instincts, and choosing safe, legitimate ways to spread holiday cheer.

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Family-Friendly Holiday Activities on a Budget

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From decking the halls and shopping for everyone on your nice list, to joining in on festive activities that spread joy – the holiday season can quickly become the most expensive time of the year. Luckily, making the holidays feel magical for your family doesn’t have to come with a big price tag. Check out these low cost, family-friendly activities that are guaranteed to get the whole family in the holiday spirit.

1. Festive Walk or Drive to See Holiday Lights

Bundle up and embark on a festive walk or drive through a neighborhood that is decked out in holiday lights and classic character inflatables. Your community’s front yard displays can help transform an ordinary winter night into something special (without a price tag).

2. Holiday Movie Marathon

Bring the movie theater to your living room by hosting a holiday movie marathon! Decide on the perfect line-up of movies that will get you and your family in the spirit. Many holiday classics play free on various television networks throughout the season or can be rented on streaming services – often for a fraction of the price of movie theater tickets. Repurpose blankets, pillows, and cushions to create a cozy set-up. To elevate the experience even further, consider making a holiday-themed “concession stand” out of items you have in your pantry or that can be purchased affordably. Create a hot chocolate bar with all the fixings, make festive popcorn with holiday sprinkles, or bake seasonal cookies to enjoy.

 3. Make Homemade Ornaments

Turn your kitchen into your own version of Santa’s workshop by crafting homemade ornaments. With a few affordable supplies that can be found at local dollar and craft stores, you can create magical memories and holiday keepsakes. Not only will you end up with a Christmas tree of meaningful ornaments – they make great gifts for friends and family members, too.

If you’re looking for inspiration, check out these bead candy cane ornaments. All you need are pipe cleaners, festive colored beads, string, and ribbon!

4. Enjoy Local Events

Many towns host free or low cost events to spread holiday cheer in the community – and yours might be one of them! Keep your eye out for festive activities like Christmas tree or Menorah lightings, pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and family-fun days with seasonal crafts and games. You can find activities like this posted on your town or county website, in public groups or forums on Facebook and Nextdoor, or from flyers around the community. If you’re in Monmouth or Ocean Counties in New Jersey, check out our monthly Things to Do on a Budget blog posts – which feature local, affordable, and family-friendly activities for the season.

5. Start a Gratitude Jar

‘Tis the season to reflect on everything you’re grateful for, and a gratitude jar can help you express gratitude each day of the holiday season! You can start this tradition by encouraging your family to set time aside daily to write a note expressing a moment – big or small, in which they are thankful for or that brought them joy. These notes should be dropped into your “gratitude jar,” which should be kept in a visible spot so that everyone remembers to add their note daily. At the end of the season, gather your family together to read notes from the jar. This is a great opportunity to reflect on the year and share one another’s favorite moments and memories. Plus, with the hustle-and-bustle of the holiday season – it can be easy to forget the simple things that brought a smile to your face this year.

6. Create Your Own Family Holiday Story

Tap into your family’s creative side to make a holiday story. To involve the whole crew, consider splitting up storytelling responsibilities. For example, the children can create the characters, and the parents can decide on a theme and plot. You might center your story around a task that must be completed as the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, or throw a festive holiday spin on the main character’s activities. After your idea has been developed, it’s time to bring the story to life by writing the narrative and adding illustrations. The magic of crafting a holiday tale is that the story can go wherever your imagination takes you. This activity will leave you with special memories and a story that can be incorporated into holiday traditions for years to come.

Subscribe to our First Scoop blog if you’d like to get monthly lists of low cost, family-friendly activities like this right to your inbox.

First Financial wishes you and yours a wonderful holiday season!

Holiday Tipping Etiquette: ‘Tis the Season to Show Your Appreciation

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As the year comes to a close, you may be looking for ways to thank the people around you who make your life easier. Tipping during the holiday season is your chance to show your appreciation to the service providers you rely on throughout the year.

While there is no one-size-fits-all rule when it comes to holiday tipping, a little guidance can help you strike the right balance.

Who should you tip? When considering whom to tip, think about the individuals who provide you with regular, ongoing services. This may include housekeepers, babysitters, teachers, dog walkers, or landscapers. If you live in an apartment or condominium, property staff, such as door attendants and maintenance workers, are also common recipients.

In addition, you don’t want to forget the people who provide you with personal care services, such as hairdressers/barbers, nail technicians, massage therapists, or personal trainers. Even mail and newspaper carriers and delivery drivers may warrant a holiday thank you.

How much should you give? The amount will depend on a variety of factors, such as your budget, geographic location, and relationship with the service providers.

For personal care providers, such as a hairdresser, a common guideline is to give the cost of one service visit. For other individuals with whom you may interact more frequently, such as a live-in housekeeper or nanny, a gift of up to one week’s pay may be more appropriate. For additional service providers, such as a garage attendant or newspaper delivery person, it is suggested that you give a cash gift of less than $30 or a small gift.1

If you live in an apartment or work in an office, fellow residents or coworkers may contribute to a pooled holiday fund for building employees.

Cash or gifts? While cash is often most appreciated, a thoughtful handmade gift can also be meaningful, especially if it is accompanied by a handwritten note.

Keep in mind that there may be instances where certain types of gifts are prohibited, so it is always best to check to make sure that a gift isn’t against a company’s policy. For example, United States Postal Service mail carriers are not allowed to receive cash gifts, checks, or gift cards.2 In addition, some workplaces may not allow employees to receive gifts of alcohol.

Questions about this topic? Contact First Financial’s Investment & Retirement Center by calling 732.312.1534.  You can also email mary.laferriere@lpl.com or maureen.mcgreevy@lpl.com

Securities and advisory services are offered through LPL Financial (LPL), a registered investment advisor and broker/dealer (member FINRA/SIPC). Insurance products are offered through LPL or its licensed affiliates. First Financial Federal Credit Union (FFFCU) and First Financial Investment & Retirement Center are not registered as a broker/dealer or investment advisor. Registered representatives of LPL offer products and services using First Financial Investment & Retirement Center, and may also be employees of FFFCU. These products and services are being offered through LPL or its affiliates, which are separate entities from and not affiliates of FFFCU or First Financial Investment & Retirement Center.

Securities and insurance offered through LPL or its affiliates are:

1) The Emily Post Institute, 2025

2) United States Postal Service, 2025

The information provided is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax planning or legal advice. We suggest that you consult with a qualified tax or legal professional.

LPL Financial Representatives offer access to Trust Services through The Private Trust Company N.A., an affiliate of LPL Financial.

Content in this material is for general information only and not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly.

CRPC conferred by College for Financial Planning.

This communication is strictly intended for individuals residing in the state(s) of CT, DE, FL, GA, MA, NJ, NY, NC, OR, PA, SC, TN and VA. No offers may be made or accepted from any resident outside the specific states referenced.

Prepared by Broadridge Advisor Solutions Copyright 2025.

DIY Holiday Crafts and Treats Good Enough to Gift

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This holiday season, the most meaningful presents don’t always come from a store – they come from the heart. Handmade gifts show thought, care, and creativity – plus they’re a great way to celebrate the season without stretching your budget.

Here are a few DIY gift ideas that are simple to make, will go easy on your holiday budget, and are guaranteed to bring joy. Click each link below for additional inspiration:

  • Handmade ornaments. Try festive ideas like cinnamon-stick ornaments, yarn trees, decorated mason jar lids, or cozy holiday gnomes.
  • Homemade treats. A batch of holiday cookies, spiced nuts, or peppermint bark is always a hit and adds a personal touch to any gift basket.
  • DIY self-care gifts. Create your own candles, bath salts, or sugar scrubs – perfect for someone who could use a little extra relaxation.
  • Memory jars or handwritten cards. Fill a jar with favorite memories, affirmations, and “open when” notes, or craft a beautiful handmade card.
  • Crafted home décor. Think mini craft-stick trees, homemade garlands, or stovetop simmering spice jars for cozy holiday vibes.

Why go handmade?

  • Handmade gifts feel more personal and meaningful.
  • They’re budget-friendly during an expensive time of year.
  • Crafting gives you a chance to slow down, get creative, and enjoy the season.

This holiday season, trade in the shopping rush for handmade magic. Whether it’s a batch of cookies, a soft-lit candle, or a homemade ornament – you’ll be giving more than a gift, you’ll also be giving meaning.

From all of us at First Financial, happy crafting and Happy Holidays!

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How to Support Small Business This Holiday Season

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The holiday season is now in full swing and while the rush to find gifts, plan meals, and celebrate can be overwhelming – it’s also the perfect time to make your spending count locally. Supporting small, independent businesses helps strengthen our communities, boosts local economies, and ensures your dollars go further – often staying in the neighborhood instead of to distant corporations.

Here are some meaningful, practical ways to show support for small businesses this holiday season.

1. Buy Gift Cards from Local Shops, Restaurants, or Service Based Businesses

Gift cards are a win-win during the holidays. When you buy a gift card from a small retailer or local restaurant:

  • You give someone a flexible gift that’s close to home.
  • You help that business with immediate cash flow, which matters during the busy holiday season.
  • You may even encourage repeat business – the recipient may return later and discover more products or services they love.

Whether it’s for a cozy café, boutique clothing, a neighborhood bookstore, or the local spa – gift cards help our small businesses stay afloat and grow.

2. Do Your Holiday Shopping Locally, in Person or Online

Skip the big box store crowd or massive online retailers for at least part of your holiday shopping. Instead, visit neighborhood shops, boutiques, and artisans — or check out their small-business e-commerce websites.

Many small businesses offer online ordering, local delivery, or curb-side pickup – making holiday shopping from home or on a schedule much easier. Buying from them helps keep money circulating locally – sustaining jobs, community services, and the unique character of your hometown.

3. When Ordering Holiday Meals or Treats, Opt for Local Eateries

The holidays often mean busy schedules, long workdays, or late-night prep – which can make fast food or big-chain takeout tempting. This year, consider ordering from a local restaurant or bakery instead. By doing so, you:

  • Support local workers and business owners when many smaller eateries depend heavily on holiday revenue.
  • Help maintain the local food culture, keeping unique tastes and homegrown menus alive in your neighborhood.
  • Often get fresh, more personalized meals – and maybe even help someone feel appreciated by ordering from a small, caring team.

4. Write Positive Reviews for the Local Businesses You Use

If you’ve had a good experience, whether it’s a great gift shop find, friendly service at a café, or delicious carry-out – take a minute to leave a public review.

Positive reviews help small businesses build visibility, trust, and a broader customer base, especially during the holidays when many people search online for gifts, food, or services. A kind review is a low effort but high-impact way to support your community’s businesses.

5. Spread the Word

Word-of-mouth and social sharing remain among the most powerful ways to support small businesses.

  • Share your favorite shops or restaurants with friends and family.
  • Recommend local businesses when someone asks for gift ideas.
  • On social media or within community groups, highlight small businesses you love.

Each share raises awareness and may bring new customers to those businesses.

6. Plan Ahead and Shop Early

Small businesses can get overwhelmed during peak holiday demand. By shopping early, you:

  • Help avoid stock shortages or long lead times.
  • Ease stress for small shop owners so they can better manage orders, staffing, and customer service.
  • Give yourself more gift giving flexibility, and allow local businesses to deliver better service.

 The Impact of Shopping Small

  • Local businesses are more likely to keep profits in the community, supporting neighborhood jobs, schools, and services.
  • Each holiday purchase at a small shop helps independent businesses compete during a season often dominated by big box retailers.
  • Shopping small helps preserve the unique character and culture of neighborhoods, making towns more vibrant, personal, and community-oriented.

As we head into Small Business Saturday (November 29, 2025), choosing to shop local is a small decision that can make a big difference.

Make This Season a Community Win

 Whether you’re buying gifts, ordering takeout, or doing your regular errands – consider making local businesses part of your plan this holiday season. A small shift in where you spend can help keep jobs, culture, and community thriving.

At First Financial, we believe supporting small businesses is one of the best ways to fuel shared prosperity. Check out some of our local business members this Small Business Saturday and throughout the season. Happy Holidays and don’t forget to shop local!

Don’t Let Thanksgiving Leftovers Go to Waste

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After all that prep of your big Turkey Day meal, one of the best things you can do is make sure nothing goes to waste. With a little creativity, you can stretch your Thanksgiving bounty into great meals, reduce your grocery bill, and even give back to your community this holiday season. Here are some smart leftover strategies – and three easy recipes to keep things tasty, simple, and budget-friendly.

Why it matters

  • Food waste adds up. When we let leftovers go unused or toss items we bought, we also waste the money and time that went into them.
  • Stretching your leftovers means you buy less at your next grocery run – helping you save, which aligns with smart budgeting and good financial habits.
  • You can also turn leftovers into an opportunity to give back – many food pantries and charities accept unopened, unexpired non-perishable items so others don’t go hungry.
  • Budget-friendly meal planning is a winner all around. You can use affordable food dishes to feed a crowd or repurpose your leftovers.

Easy recipes using common Thanksgiving leftovers

Here are three simple ideas you can use in the days following Thanksgiving. Each uses typical leftovers like turkey, stuffing, vegetables, even mashed potatoes – and gives them new life.

1. Turkey and stuffing skillet hash

  • Chop leftover turkey and stuffing into bite-sized pieces.
  • Sauté both in a skillet with a little oil or butter, add in any leftover vegetables (e.g., roasted carrots or green beans) and a handful of shredded cheese if you have it.
  • Crack an egg or two on top and cover until the egg sets.
  • This gives you a hearty breakfast or brunch that uses what you already have (turkey + stuffing) and eliminates the need to buy separate hash browns or breakfast sausage.
  • Tip: If you have extra gravy, drizzle a little over the top. If you don’t use all the stuffing, you can even freeze portions in single-serve containers for later.
  • Recipe inspired by James Beard’s Turkey-and-Stuffing Hash

2. Turkey and vegetable soup with mashed potato dumplings

  • You can use the turkey carcass to make a simple bone broth (or heat up some leftover turkey stock).
  • Add chopped leftover turkey, diced carrots/green beans/leftover roasted vegetables, a cup of leftover stuffing broken into small pieces, and warm through.
  • For a twist: Mix a small scoop of leftover mashed potatoes with an egg and flour (or bread crumbs) to form little dumplings or “gnocchi-style” bites. Drop them into the simmering soup until cooked.
  • This transforms leftovers into a comforting meal and you’ll be less likely to go buy expensive take-out.
  • Recipe inspired by the “Spend with Pennies” Blog

3. Leftover cranberry turkey wrap or sandwich

  • Use leftover slices of turkey and a smear of cranberry sauce and stuffing inside a tortilla, large lettuce leaf, or whole-grain wrap.
  • You can also add shredded lettuce or leftover roasted vegetables from the holiday table.
  • Roll up your wrap and lunch is done. Easy, portable, and uses up more in the fridge!
  • If you have leftover sweet potatoes or roasted root veggies, you can add them in too.
  • Bonus: If you already picked up a multi-pack of wraps or a loaf of bread, you’re getting more value out of what you bought.
  • Recipe inspired by the Kitchen Concoctions Blog

Smart tips for leftover management and your budget

  • Label and date your leftovers: Put the date on your containers so you use the oldest items first.
  • Portion and freeze: If you think you won’t use everything within a few days, freeze portions and mark them for post-holiday meal nights.
  • Plan your next grocery list around what you already have: Before buying new items, take stock of leftover turkey, stuffing, and vegetables. Build 1-2 meals around what’s in your fridge.
  • Donate what you won’t use: If you have unopened non-perishables find a local food pantry and drop them off. This helps your community and frees up space for items you will use.
  • Use leftovers to reduce your next shopping bill: If you plan ahead a little, you may be able to skip a meal out or purchase fewer items at the store because you’re “recycling” ingredients. This small savings can really add up.
  • Think of repurposing as part of your holiday budget: Just like you planned for the turkey and sides, plan for what happens after. This mindset helps you treat leftovers not just as an after-thought, but as part of the full financial plan for your holiday budget.

Tying it all to affordability and financial wellness

At First Financial, we believe that good money habits aren’t just about how much you make, but how you can use what you already have and also avoid unnecessary waste. The holidays can put extra pressure on your budget – more food, more guests, more chances to overbuy. But by being deliberate and resourceful, you can hold that budget steady. When you repurpose your leftovers, you’re effectively getting more meals from the same budget. That’s smart financial sense and it aligns with our commitment to help you achieve financial stability, even when the calendar says “holiday.”

When we make mindful choices, from leftovers to long-term planning – we can only reap the benefits. Get in touch with us if you have budgeting or financial planning questions, and subscribe to our First Scoop Blog to explore resources that will support your financial wellness year-round.