With the slowing global economy - at least that's what the media tells us - many people are looking for ways to reduce holiday spending, while still having a fabulous holiday. Here are some tips to help you save money over the holidays.
1) Give gifts for kids only . Talk with your family and friends and ask them to just exchange gifts for children. Or buy a "family gift" something the whole family can enjoy together like a board game or DVD. I'm sure your family and friends will be overjoyed to not have to buy gifts for you too if they feel the pressure of the economy. After all Christmas is all about the kids!
2) Re-Where Your Gift Can. How many times have you received a gift that you do not know what to do with. It May not be your style, or you May have no use for him. Give it to someone else. It is becoming more and more socially acceptable. You can make someone else happy and save some money at the same time. The trick however is to remember who gave you what and how to make sure that not re-gift it back to the person or the person who was close to them. It can be seen as a faux paux. Think again as a wedding gift to save money from the original gifter!
3) Make a list and stick to it . Make a list of gifts that you buy - or price range, you will spend on each gift. Then stick to it. People tend to blow your holiday budget last minute gifts or items that are not for the plan. When you make a list and a budget and stick to it, there are no surprises on your credit card in January. In fact the use of money and then not have to worry about credit card bills in January to all! Start early to avoid last minute shopping despair!
4) Be creative with your gifts. Do you have a new mom to buy for? Give the gift of cleaning her house for her once a week for a month. What about framing artwork or memories of a family member. If you cook, create a book of their favorite recipes to give more cooks. Offer to run errands for an elderly relative or neighbor. Give free babysitting for the couple is busy with young families who do not get much time together. Bake your favorite cookies and wrap them in a fancy package. Give love on behalf of the people giving the gift. Working with children to create special gifts using their school pictures (Grandma and Grandpa will love this !).
5) Be creative with your wrapping. Sometimes the paper can cost more than the gift! Be creative, or with which they buy or how to wrap it with foil. Buy a pack for next year after Christmas sales. If we wait long enough you can get some really nice paper for 75% discount. Just remember what you bought when you're going to wrap presents next year. Buy your wrap at the dollar store. There are some very nice options at the dollar stores these days. Or foil with the environment in mind. Use the comics or newspapers, or wrapping paper over again. The environment is on many people's minds and they will appreciate you for it. Buy plain wrapping paper in bulk and decorate it yourself or with your children. Use labels or tags, and make it personal for every gift.
To learn more about how to do your holiday shopping modest, check out our.
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