Christmas is a time of year that many people become anxious about their finances, especially if you have children. It can be a costly time of year, and they’re going to be many different things that you may not have thought about, that crop up. Such as needing costumes for the school play. Gifts for teachers, and the many other things that are thrown into the mix at the last minute. But it doesn’t have to be as stressful as it sounds. If you’re a little bit clever during the year, you may be able to think about some extra treats this year. And here are some ideas that will help you along the way. But just remember the only pressure around Christmas is usually put on you by yourself. It’s not easy, but Christmas is a fantastic time of year for spending time with their loved ones, and if you remember this anything else is secondary.
Photo by Kari Shea on Unsplash
Savings
The number one tip for saving money at Christmas is actually saving money for Christmas. It does sound obvious, but even a small amount per month will make a massive difference at the end of the year. If you can just put away a few pennies per month and any extra bonuses into the pot. And maybe get involved in car boot sales, or flipping items for a profit online. Then you will eventually end up with a healthy sum of money to put towards your Christmas celebrations. There are schemes and clubs you can join, however putting your own money to one side and keeping it safe will give you the highest satisfaction.
Homemade gifts
It’s the thought that counts, and if you are going to put some time into creating some lovely handmade gifts for people, you will find some grateful recipients. If you have children who are happy being crafty, then this is even better. You can now find kits to make anything you want from homemade soaps, two biscuits, and cakes. Christmas stencils are quite easy to get hold of, and you will find they will be beneficial to your handmade gift making.
Making from scratch
Instead of buying a Christmas cake, you can actually make one from scratch, find a great recipe online and get started as soon as possible. Christmas cakes can be made weeks in advance, and the alcohol in them overtime create something special for your Christmas celebrations. It’s great to get the children involved in this and help them learn how to make their own Christmas food for when they grow up.
Homemade decorations
How many Christmas decorations can be so simple, Paper chains and snowflake paper creations can be really effective, and a quick Google search will find you a whole host of ideas that you can use to brighten up your home at Christmas. You really don’t need to go out and spend hundreds on the fanciest Christmas decorations, and you can pay what you save on celebrating in other ways.
Whatever you decide to do at Christmas remember it’s your own personal decision. You don’t have to go all out if you don’t want to, and many people decide to use the money that they would have otherwise spent on Christmas, going on holiday and spending time with their family that way. Remember it’s entirely up to you and taking the pressure off yourself will undoubtedly improve the Christmas period.
