For some people, enjoying coffee is almost a religious experience. They crave everything about the coffee experience — from the sound of a grinder to the aroma that fills the air when their favorite beverage is brewed.
But just how much are we willing to pay to satisfy our caffeinated desires?
With the arrival of the holiday season, many Abilene
Coffee is a practical and popular gift that can be personalized for any occasion and budget, said Carmen Guerra of Mezamiz Coffee House.
"People like to buy gifts that others can really get use out of and enjoy. Coffee fits that bill," Guerra said. "Many people will come in for a pound of coffee that can be added to a gift basket with collectibles and other personal gifts."
"We can put something together for any budget," Guerra said.
In regard to cost, there are many ways to enjoy coffee based on the limits of a person's budget. Factors such as quality, convenience and personal taste have to be considered when trying to get the most buzz for your buck.
In recent years, Keurig brand coffee machines have been all the rage when it comes to making coffee at home, but they are not the most cost-effective option available, financial experts say.
According to the home economics blog Mrs. Moneysaver,the average person who consumes two cups of coffee per day will spend more than $380 per year using a Keurig machine. That cost is low compared with buying two cups of coffee per day at Starbucks (more than $1,000 per year) or at McDonald's (more than $850 per year).
Using a standard coffee maker, however, will only set you back just over $100 during the same period.
Being frugal and following a few simple steps can make the convenience factor of Keurig more affordable.
The key to saving money on Keurig's proprietary K-Cups is by stockpiling when you find a great deal.
When shopping online, look for coupon codes to save money. If you are looking to buy local, keep an eye out for coupons and buy in bulk at places like Sam's Club and Walmart.
During the holidays, H-E-B and United Supermarkets often offer special variety packs that will save you money and allow you to sample a variety of coffee flavors.
Another popular trend this year for coffee fans is ready-to-brew coffee. This "just add water or milk" option was introduced by Starbucks as an alternative to standard instant coffee with its Via line, but you do have other options.
Via averages about $1 per cup, while Nescafe's Clasico line currently is being offered at Walmart for less than $2 per box of eight packets, which is enough to make eight cups of coffee.
Adding a box or two of ready-to-brew in a gift basket along with a mug and/or other small gifts will score you some bonus points with your favorite coffee fan.
If you're buying for a coffee aficionado like local real estate broker Randy Dodd, who proudly proclaims "Coffee is my drug of choice," a bit of research will go a long way. Talk to friends and scour websites such as Yelp for reviews on local coffee shops.
Gift cards and certificates will help local businesses boost their bottom line while making someone a nice gift, said Jerry Hendrix of Monk's Coffee Shop.
"Send someone in for something special like our Royal Breve," Hendrix said. "We combine steamed half-and-half with honey and espresso. This would not be easy for someone to make at home."
No matter how you buy it, coffee makes the holiday season a bit warmer. For many, the gift of coffee and conversation is always welcome.
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