Christmas is just around the corner, and a little strategic planning with a mix of creativity can save us all! Let me share on how I handle my Christmas shopping.
Start with the list and know who your shopping for! Each year I keep my Christmas list on a word document. My list will often have small changes, like new baby’s or girlfriends/boyfriends that have left the equation, but keeping a list from year to year minimizes the risk of leaving someone off. Forgotten gifts can leave one scrambling last minute stretching a perhaps already busted budget!
Keeping notes of past gifts on my list, helps me to recall what worked the year before. This way I can easily recall that candle I bought for my cousin, and how much she loved it.
After the list we determine our family budget. We choose our budget for the Christmas season second so that we can break our budget down by person. Since I am working off a list from the prior year, my budget should not be busted due to forgotten last minute gifts!
Once an amount has been allocated per person I always aim lower. Although, the budget for each of my children starts out the same, if I spend less on one due to sale prices then that is perfect. I just don’t feel the need to make the numbers even in order to be fair.
Where is the money coming from? Are we cashing in our coins? Are we selling our baby stroller on eBay or Kijiji? Find the money before you set out to shop. I like to shop with cash for Christmas. Cash as in the green stuff! Instead of using the debit card try to shop with cash to prevent impulsive buys. I find when shopping with cash, I will watch the prices closer. I will be less tempted to spend more, since I have a limited amount on hand.
Why buy new? There are no rules! There is no reason to shop for new merchandise. Thrift shops, eBay or even Kijiji are great places to grab some great items secondhand. I know I have bought gifts from consignments that were put under the tree and remained guilt free!
Next bring on the creativity! Not every Christmas present has to break the bank. Some of the best gifts may cost very little, and can be made right from home! Simple gifts like photos books/scrapbooks, bake-goods, homemade recipe books, jewelry, ornaments, scented candles, and even family photo slide-shows can save you money. In addition to saving money these gifts are personal and thoughtful!
When shopping, shop smart! Know your prices! If shopping online take advantage of sites like RetailMeNot.com to search and apply coupon codes. Remember sites like Ebates, will not only provide coupon codes, but will also offer you cash back!
Avoid shipping when possible! Utilize stores like Target , where they offer free shipping when you spend $50 or more at Target.com Walmart’s free site to store, is another cool way to avoid shipping charges and allows you to shop from home!
Don’t forget your coupons before hitting the stores! Coupons can be found almost anywhere now days. Look in store ads, the Sunday paper, RetailMeNot.com, even Coupons.com! I often find coupons directly from the manufacture website like LeapFrog, Hasbro, and Fisher Price. Coupons normally have limits, but often reset. I encourage you to sign up for newsletters, so spacial offers will be emailed to you!
Don’t forget the wrapping paper! Using comics from the Sunday paper works nicely as wrapping paper!
Get creative this holiday season and remember the real reason we come together to celebrate!
Related posts:
- Christmas Shopping Starts Now! With Christmas drawing near I am getting many great deals...
- Baby Universe: Shop & Save Check out Baby Universe, and start the savings! Save...
- Need Shoes? Shop DSW! Shop DSW now through September 28Th and earn double...
- Christmas Time: Family Traditions Christmas traditions are unique to each family. When I...
- Save Money With Save a Lot: $15 P&G Coupons Perhaps I should thank my mom for starting my...
Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.
