The entire month of December is like a Friday afternoon. It's when people are at their most generous and loving, it's when families and lovers take vacations, and it's when children are counting down the days until they can get their perfectly wrapped presents. But there's just one small problem with December... the spending.
It goes without saying that we tend to overspend during the holidays. What's one more scarf for our favourite friend? And just one more pair of shoes for the Christmas party won't hurt, right? Wrong. Christmas, while being stunning, usually has such a big impact on our bank account that it leaves us counting down the days until our next pay check or pocket money in January.
So here are a few tips to help you save during the festive season. By the end of December, you'll be thanking me.
If you sit down and make a list of the things you'd like to buy and then look at your budget, you will enter those stores with a goal in mind and no shock when it comes to seeing the amount on the cash register. Planning is key when it comes to buying gifts.
If you've found a gift that is perfect for your BFF, shop around or look online. The chances are, that very same product is being sold elsewhere but at a much cheaper price.
If you're a whizz in the kitchen, whip up a batch of cookies in a cute container. If you love painting, make someone a stunning piece to hang on their wall. Gifts don't always have to cost an arm and a leg.
Homemade gifts are a great way to save money during Christmas time. Not only are they thoughtful and personal, but they can also be much cheaper than store bought items. With a little creativity and some time, you can create something unique and special that will be cherished for years to come. Whether it's a batch of cookies, a painting, a piece of jewelry, a knitted scarf, or a handmade card, homemade gifts show the recipient that you care and that you put in the effort to make something special. Homemade gifts can be a great way to save money and show your loved ones how much you care.
You can create perfect looking nails and stunning hair with the help of many DIY tutorials on YouTube. You may think that one mani/pedi won't make a difference to your budget, but it really does add up.
If you've already got a job, try and extend your hours. Retails are surely looking for extra hands this time of year and you could benefit by having a little extra in your budget. Essentially, it's a win-win situation.
That is when each person is given someone to buy a gift for without the person knowing who gave them the gift. In this way, you only have to buy one gift and everyone walks away with something fun.
Use all of those gift cards that you've received throughout the year but never thought you would ever have a use for. Finally, those vouchers that your grandparents, aunts and uncles gave you for your birthday come in handy!
Regardless of what gifts you buy your loved ones this year, it's important to remember that Christmas is not just about giving and receiving presents but rather showing love and giving thanks for the wonderful people in our lives. So, enjoy the festive season, appreciate your family and friends, be safe, and keep warm.