For many people Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year however with costs still on the increase it can also be a difficult time for many of us who realise that we can’t afford to buy some of the festivities that we used to.
It is still possible to keep Christmas special whilst on a tight budget – here’s some of our tips to help:
- Manage expectations – have conversations with family members and friends now letting them know that you won’t be spending lots of money on gifts. You could even tell everyone that gifts will be handmade this year which can help your gifts be even more special.
- Buy meaningful presents – with a limited budget it’s even more important to shop around and think wisely about gifts. Sticking to buy basic items such as food can look special when gift wrapped in a hamper – you can make it even more special by shopping from local crafters and shops.
- Spread the cost – by shopping early you can buy one item a week as that way you won’t have a large bill to pay in December and you’re less likely to put it on a credit card. This also helps to build the anticipation as you put things away until Christmas.
- Making your gifts – this helps to make your gifts that bit more special and can include baking cookies, mince pies and Christmas decoration.
- Recycle – by being creative and re-use last years cards and wrapping paper you can save money. How about looking around your home and seeing how you can re-use any times?
- Share the costs – by joining together at Christmas and everyone bringing a food item for the table you can reduce the cost of preparing your Christmas dinner and have less waste.
However you choose you spend Christmas this year we hope that you enjoy your time with friends and family and remember that it can still be special without spending lots of money.
