People are always looking for ways to reduce their spend at Christmastime- here are Female First’s suggestions…
Christmas on Female First
Gift sacks: Rather than buying new gift bags every year- you could always invest in a gift sack and personalise it if you wish. This can then be used year after year- saving you lots of money on bags in the long run. Just ask for it back once the festivities are over so you can refill it once Christmas rolls around again.
Personalised stockings: Again- this is something that can be used every Christmas until it wears out. Generic stockings can be bought cheaply but over time- the money mounts up if you buy new every year- plus everyone will know which one is theirs if their name is on it.
Get your cards on sale: Always buy your cards in the January sales for next Christmas. If you haven’t this year- bear this in mind for January 2020 as it will save you a ton of money on quality cards that you want for the special people in your life.
Get your wrapping paper in the sales too: Stores practically give away rolls of wrapping paper after Christmas, so keep your eye out for a bargain and store it away for next year.
Ask what people want: Rather than guessing and spending money unnecessarily- make a list and ask people what it is they want the most that’s also within your budget. This will save you walking aimlessly around the shops looking for inspiration near the big day.
Buy little and often: If there are foods that have a long shelf life on them like cranberry sauce, stuffing and Christmas puddings- buy them with your regular shop a few months before so you don’t end up with a huge bill in December. For anything non-perishable like stamps and Sellotape- do the same so before the rush- you are already three steps ahead as the prices are starting to go up.
Put some money away each month: You could take out a savings card with a particular supermarket if you get most of your food and gifts from there or just put the money in a safe place each time you get paid. Knowing how much you can realistically put aside will help you to spend less when you get to the point of shopping.
More: Seven things you can do in September to prepare for Christmas