This weekend the Thrifty household completed their Christmas shopping. I’m pleased to say it was entirely paid for in cash made from eBay sales so we are feeling pretty relaxed about Christmas creeping up. However, I remain well aware that this can be a stressful time of year and I’m sure that this is mainly down to monetary worries and the pressure piled on people to buy extravagant gifts.
So, if you are looking to save rather than spend this festive season, here are my top tips for having a Thrifty Christmas of your own:
1. Start early. There is method in the madness of posting a blog about Christmas almost two months early. The earlier you start your shopping the more time you have to pay for it!
2. Set a budget and stick to it. This is really important. At this time of the year shops are designing their Christmas displays primarily based on the public’s ability to impulse buy. Take a list and only buy what is written down at the best price. Some bloggers swear by using cash envelopes in place of plastic to stop unnecessary spending. Which leads me nicely to…
3. Check those prices. If you can get it cheaper elsewhere then go elsewhere. I’ve been known to be in The Range googling the price of the exact same photo frame in B&M to check I’m bagging the best bargain! It may only be pennies in difference but pennies mean pounds! Aldi, Lidl, B&M and Home Bargains all have Christmas aisles where the perfect presents await at reduced prices.
4. Secret Santa. If you have a circle of friends that usually buy presents for each other at Christmas then suggesting Secret Santa could be an option. Everyone buys one present and receives one present – win, win!
5. Get it done! Once you’ve decided who you are buying for and what you are buying for them (or making – love a handmade gift!) then do it. Shopping early also means you miss the crowds and aren’t stressed when shopping. It is relaxing to have it completed and you can enjoy wrapping with plenty of time to spare!
6. Presence not presents. If you take one thing away from this post then let this be it. Yes Christmas is about the art of giving not receiving but don’t fall in to the terrible trap of debt by going overboard. In most instances, your loved ones will be happy enough with your time in place of an expensive gift. Think about what you love about Christmas – chances are you remember special times spent with family rather than the presents under the tree.
How do you keep your Christmas spending under wraps? As always, any hints & tips of your own are welcome. Keep in touch by clicking the subscribe button – I’d love you to stick around!
Love, Thrifty Mumma X
Thrifty Mumma Thrifty Bubba 
4 Comments