The Christmas countdown starts now and you haven’t started saving yet for the festivities, you’d better start now. Whether you’re looking to decorate your home, prepare a big family dinner, buy gifts or party the nights away, let’s be honest, money is everything.
Money will determine if you’re going to have a lavish or mediocre celebration. The last thing you want is to swipe your credit cards in exchange for some Christmas miracles because it’s always a bad idea to start the new year in debt. Only use cash, debit card or cheques for all your purchases to avoid overspending and incurring debt.
It’s important that you don’t wipe out all your annual savings during the festive seasons as it can be quite difficult to resist all these in-your-face sales and Christmas buffets. Mmmm, turkey and cranberries. If you put aside some savings every month of the year, the feeling of anticipation becomes stronger as you have something to look forward at the end of the year.
Whether you celebrate Christmas or not, the year end is always a time to reflect on the year and to reward ourselves by celebrating another year well spent. Don’t be a scrooge and hold back entirely, instead getting yourself a nice pair of new shoes and a great meal at a cozy place downtown can make you feel good about yourself and make you appreciate the little things in life.
If you haven’t had anything planned yet for Christmas, pull out your notebook and take some time this weekend to draft up your budget from decorations to food to cards and gifts.
Only spend within your means. A bigger tree doesn’t make it all merrier just as a cheaper gift doesn’t make it any less insincere. Don’t spend on random knicknacks that end up as ‘white elephants’, I mean does anyone really need another mug or photo frame? You don’t have to buy presents for everyone, instead, suggest a gift exchange with a price limit and everyone draws out the recipient of their gift out of a bag. That way it’ll still be fun and within budget.
Creative doesn’t have mean pricey and vice versa. Instead of spending on fancy little baubles and ornaments for decoration, make your own by refurbishing old unused toys and memorabilia up to your creativity. Recycle and don’t throw out last year’s Christmas deco!
Also, don’t wait till the very last minute to do your shopping because all the sale items would be gone by then. Always remember that Christmas isn’t about how much you spend but it’s about the little things that you should hold close to you like your friends and family. Be creative and friendly to your wallet this Christmas and only splurge on what truly matters.
Oh. And remember to photograph your efforts!
