The best way to save is to make a budget – but why don’t most Christmas budgets work? In reality, Christmas is probably one of the most challenging times to stick to your budget – every mall you step into is tempting you with promotions and offers, and the gifting lists seems non-exhaustive!
While it is important to get into the spirit of festivities, don’t lose sight of your expenses. Decide upfront how much to set aside for expenses such as gifts, parties, decor and other miscellaneous costs. Here are 3 simple ways that can help you stick to your guns (and budget!)
Start early
You don’t have to wait for the year-end rush to start gift-shopping. Looking out for suitable gifts throughout the year helps to reduce the stress of holiday shopping and prevents a huge spike in your spending. You can create a gift wishlist to make shopping easier. It also helps to stock up on some generic gifts that will come in handy for office parties or a last-minute invite to a friend’s place.
Spread out your spending to get ahead in saving!
Check out online deals
Keep your costs down by leveraging on fabulous promotions and online deals to capture the holiday shopper. Don’t miss out on mega online sales that happen in the month of November, like Singles’ Day, Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
Home-style parties
Planning a festive meal outside for a table of 10 can set you back in the several hundreds or even thousands (depending on your menu and the restaurant). While the ambience and mood may be more “conducive”, for the budget conscious, a home-style Christmas party would definitely be more cost effective! Suggest a potluck or a home-cooked meal enhanced with some takeaway goodies. It’s the company that counts!
Spend happily and save merrily this Christmas!
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