How To Save Money At Christmas



Save Money On Christmas But Never Lose The Sparkle


When the idea of Christmas is in the air, it is normal for many people to feel a major financial crunch when they start to think about the different gifts that they need to get for friends and family members. The recent economy has left a great deal of people with a lot less money to spend on gifts than what they are used to having on hand.


The fact of the matter is that you do not have to worry. There are a lot of options available to you other than going to the mall and spending far too much money. At the same time, Christmas is a time where you can reflect on the birth of Jesus, spend a lot of quality time with your friends and family, and also appreciate everything that you have in your life.


However, this is not to say that the exchanging of gifts should not be a part of your holiday events. Christmas shopping is fun and the gifts can be a nice way to show others how much you care or that you enjoy sharing in a friendship. These are some festive and creative ways that you can save some money this Christmas season without losing sparkle or straining your budget.


Send Cards Instead Of Gifts


A nice Christmas card can show someone that you are thinking of them, offering a meaning that is more than just a commercial gift. You can save even more money if you are able to purchase your cards in bulk. Be sure to include a handwritten note that will personalize your card.


Make A List


When it is time to go shopping, have a list handy of everything that you need to buy to help prevent impulse purchases. Stay on top of the money that you can afford to spend and then stick to it. Establishing a budget ahead of time will help you to save a good bit of money this Christmas.


Do A Secret Santa Exchange


Instead of purchasing gifts for all of your family and friends, you can draw one person's name and be their Secret Santa. Putting a dollar limit on just ho much to spend on one person will save you over buying for several.


Save Money On Wrapping Paper


Buy your wrapping paper at local discount stores. You can also save up gift bags throughout the year and you will not need quite as much paper to wrap with. Wrapping paper will also go on clearance just after Christmas, which is the time to stock up about a year in advance so that you can save money.


Shopping Online


Many stores extend sales and promotions for online stores. Compare pricing and look for promotional codes online to help you save even more. You will also save on gas when you do not have to drive to all of the stores.


Tip: Do you like filling Christmas stockings? Try getting free samples they are a great way to fill them up with small little perfume samples, make up samples.


Plan Your Online Purchases In Advance


A lot of online stores will offer buyers free shipping when they reach a specific dollar amount. Plan out your purchases in advance so that you can order your items together and save by receiving reduced or free shipping. Shipping the items directly to the recipient will also help so that you do not have to pay to re-ship them after they arrive. Many online companies will give gift options that allow you to choose gift wrapping, a tag and even a receipt.


Offer Homemade Gifts


A smart way for you to save money this holiday season is by creating gifts that are homemade. Think about sending baked goods or crafting items instead of buying items in a store. Homemade items will offer a sentimental touch that you are simply not able to find in the department stores. Look for interesting homemade gift ideas online and then plan ahead so that you can have a good amount of time to create the gifts.


The Gift Of Service


You can create redeemable coupons that will be good for a variety of services, such as serving breakfast in bed, a home cooked meal, a back rub, free car wash, doing the dishes, mowing the grass, or tackling errands. There are endless possibilities that you can choose from and a lot of people will appreciate the help over a store-bought item.


Focus On The Celebration


Talk with your friends about spending time with one another instead of exchanging gifts. There are sometimes that people will feel obligated to give gifts over and over each year. Tell people you would rather spend time with them instead of a present.


Share Holiday Meal Costs

If you are hosting a holiday party or meal, never be shy about telling people to bring certain items. Allow others to bring food items so that everyone is able to share in the celebration. Make the focus about spending time with loved ones instead of trying to make everything perfect, which could lead to the best Christmas you have ever had.




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