Don’t let the festive season break the bank. There are ways to be creative in stretching your money, without compromising on the expression of love and care.
Overspending is all too easy when you get caught up in the ‘buzz’ of shopping, entertaining and just having a good time over the festive season. That’s why it is great to know you and your loved ones can share in all the fun and festivities, without having to start the new year in debt!
Start with planning how you want to spend
Plan your budget for the festive season … and stick to it; pay cash instead of using credit cards; and avoid last-minute shopping when all caution flies out the window. Then get creative!
Share inspiring gifts that will cost you nothing, and mean so much
‘The best, inexpensive Christmas gift I ever received was from my daughter when she was in elementary school. The class took small empty boxes (toothpaste, jewelry gift boxes, etc.), wrapped them in wrapping paper, and then tied them up with curling ribbon. Attached to the box was this note:
I took an ordinary box
As empty as can be
I filled it with a special gift
And wrapped it carefully.
But please don’t ever open it
Just leave the ribbon tied
And hold it tightly near your heart
Because my love for you is inside!
I loved this gift and will keep it FOREVER. This would be a good class project for elementary school students or for a Sunday School class.’
Also take a look at this link for a few more cost-free gift ideas.
Make your own gifts, wrapping and decorations
This is something the whole family can do together, and will help everyone, including the kids, capture the festive spirit of goodwill, giving and caring.
With so many great do-it-yourself festive ideas, choose a few and complete them or you may run the risk of not finishing anything. Make it fun to personalise your gifts, wrapping, cards and decorations.
For special gifts try this link or this link or even this link.
For gift wrapping ideas try this link.
Great homemade decorations can be found here.
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