To tackle the issue of over-spending and over-indulging at this festive time of year, I have compiled a list of ways you can save and make the most of Christmas and still have money for the new year.
Presents
- Compile a list and stick to it
- Make a strict spending limit for each person (say, £10 each)
- Go to Charity shops
- Keep an eye out for Sales
- Shop online
- Get the same amount of presents for everyone so no one feels left out
- Make sure everyone has one 'main' present (this should be the largest/grandest/most costly)
- Once you are finished, only buy small, inexpensive items as stocking fillers
- Look out for sales, buy a set/pack of cards instead of individual cards
- If you have any left over from last year, use these
- Check postage - you can use 2nd class stamps which are cheaper as long as you send them off earlier
- Get value for your money and include a festive family photo (they are lightweight, so cost no more postage)
- Buy at Charity shops
- Use large beads from necklaces strung up with fishing wire or ribbon to make baubles
- Do as much DIY as possible - paper chains and snowflakes are a good starting point
- Ask your friends and neighbours if they have any leftover decorations from last year
- Look online, especially on social networking sites - it is cheaper 2nd hand than new from the shops
- Start as soon as deals are on, checking if food can be frozen and make space in your freezer just for Christmas food
- Don't buy reduced items as they will go off quickly, but if you will use them straight away then do look out for these items closer to the time
- Keep an eye out for offers, it is cheaper to buy multipacks than individual itmes
- Invite lots of people! This ensures food is not wasted and makes the multipacks worthwhile!
Money
- Start saving asap - have a Christmas savings jar, only to be used for that purpose
- Buy bits and pieces instead of all at once, it won't feel like such a blow to your wallet
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