A Debt-free Christmas
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It's a proven fact that every year thousands of people spend way to much money at Christmas time. How can one help it though right? Wrong!
Know what you want
Before going out, make a list of the items you are looking for. Stick to your list! If you have children, you may even want to start planning this ahead of time. Let your children make their own wish lists and then go through them and figure out which ones you'll be getting them. One way is the internet, type in the item and see what's the best deal out there. Not only will it save you money but it may even save you a trip to the store.
How much are you willing to spend?
Before you start shopping, decide how much you will spend after bills has been paid and food has been bought. What do you have to spend? Don't forget to save some money in case of an emergency.
Plan for the Future
Plan ahead for Holiday parties or for gifts for friends. You will more than likely be attending one or two holiday parties, make sure you allow yourself a certain amount to buy the items needed. Is your child participating in secret Santa? If they are, mark it before hand and decide what can be bought. If your child is in school, or if you have a secretary, you might want to get something nice for them.
Make items at home
If you already know that you don't have much cash you can always try making homemade items. More people actually like a homemade gift rather than a store bought gift. Here are a few ideas:
1. Baskets- These can be made from little items bought at the dollar store and placed into a small basket. Wrap it up with some Reynolds wrap and tie a ribbon to it. Not only will it be a thoughtful gift but it'll be items you know they'll use.
2. Homemade soap- If you know someone that loves taking long baths or just never has the time to shop for themselves, making some homemade soap can be special. Making soap for a child, find some inexpensive toys and place them in the center of the soap. This way they get a surprise after using all the soap and you'll make mom and dad happy by encouraging them to use soap.
3. Crochet items- Know how to crochet? Make a blanket, scarf or mittens for a loved one. They'll know you care and every time they put them on they'll think of you. Find out what their favorite color or shape is and create a blanket to keep them warm at night.
4. Scrapbook- Make a beautiful mini scrapbook for them, not only will this be special it'll be something they can cherish forever. Try starting a scrapbook for them so that they can continue on, maybe the reason they haven't done one yet is because they haven't had the time or just can't figure out how to start.
Don't shop until you drop
Not only is shopping until you drop bad for your pocket book but it's also bad for your health. Limit the amount of time you spend walking around. Try going when there aren't a lot of people. Stress has always been a big issue with people and after a couple of hours shopping in crowded stores your nerves will start showing. Try saving money and go during a sale or pick a date with your list in hand.
Bring cash not your checkbook
It's easier to write a check then it is to find an ATM machine in the middle of the store. If you only have cash on you then when you run out that's it. A checkbook will only encourage you to continue going to different stores and throwing things in your cart.
The day after sales
These are my favorite because you can stock up or just buy the gifts you wanted now and quickly send them off. Many days after sale items can be found to be 50-75% off the original price. Buy a box of Christmas cards for .25-1.00, or maybe Christmas lights for $1.50-2.00.
This Christmas season try getting through the holidays debt free and spend more family time at home. Holidays are about showing people you care not how much money you can spend on them.
Posted by jonathan on December 22, 2005 at 06:05 PM