It’s that time of year where we all feel the pinch in our purses. Everyone is in high spirits and the festivities are flowing, but how can we get by without spending a fortune once again? Nobody likes a Scrooge, but it seems that Christmas is getting more and more extravagant each year. There are competitions for the most elaborate decorations on your street and you have to buy a new Christmas sweater ever year as people at work are starting to notice that you’ve had the same one for a very long time! Now is not the ideal time to start scrimping and saving, so let’s think of some ways to get by with ease this year. We are all in need of some innovative ideas for extra cash this Christmas, so let’s get back to basics.
Getting Crafty
It sounds like an old-fashioned method, but everyone should have a go at making their own Christmas themed treats. You can start by making personal Christmas cards for everybody in your family. The shops at this time of year are always way too busy, so it might be quite therapeutic to make the cards in the comfort of your own home instead of barging your way through the crowded shops. Whilst you are feeling crafty and creative you could also make some authentic decorations for your home. There is nothing that says Christmas spirit than handmade Christmas gifts and decorations. You will be the envy of all of your neighbours and family and it will give off a more homely touch this season.
Secret Santa
The list of presents you have to buy gets longer and longer every single year. There is always a new addition to the family and somebody else that you feel the need to buy a gift for. Let’s save everyone some time and money and do a classic round of Secret Santa. Get everybody in the family involved and you’ll be able to breathe easy this year as you will only have one present to fork out for!
Everybody who wants to be involved should put their name in a hat and each person then picks someone out anonymously. The fun of the game is that nobody knows who bought them their wonderful present and you can set a limit on the price of your gift so you’re not spending too much.
Get Selling
We are all guilty of gathering up old clutter and junk in our cupboards and drawers. One of the best ways to save a little and make a little is to have a good old clear out. You can sell things like clothes on the internet and if you have unused jewelry lying around, places like BSGS can advise you on how to sell your silver and gold. Whatever bits and bobs you have lying around, the best thing to do is to just get rid of them. You’ll be surprised at how much money you can make by selling on your old belongings.
Graft for the Gifts
It’s a well-known fact that shopping can be a complete pain at Christmas time. The battles during late night shopping can be unbearable, but let’s not rule out shops altogether. High street stores are always advertising for part-time seasonal staff to help them out over the holidays. You can use this to your advantage and get a short-term job at the weekend which will help to earn you a little bit of extra cash. Most stores will offer staff discounts too, so you can earn money whilst you work and save money in your favourite shop!
Rejoice for Regifting
Many people see this as the ultimate Christmas sin, but everyone knows it’s one of the most effective ways to provide Christmas presents for the year. The golden rule of this is to make sure you remember who bought you the gift in the first place. The safest way to approach this is to separate your social groups and don’t re-gift amongst them. For example if you receive a present that isn’t quite your style from your sister, you can easily re-gift this to a work colleague. Easy, cheap and everyone is kept happy.
Decide to Donate
Donating to charities is the new fashionable thing to do this Christmas instead of giving presents and cards. It can often work out a lot less expensive too. Start by making an announcement on your social media that you will be giving a donation to an animal shelter this year. Everyone will understand you goal and aim and then you won’t be expected to buy them a gift. You can do your bit for charity, feel good about your good deed and save a ton of time!
Share the Dinner Duties
Christmas dinners are getting more and more expensive. If you’re hosting the festive feast, you’re often expected to fork out for the whole dinner. You have to provide the starters, drinks and delicious desserts. You wouldn’t want to let anybody down so you go over the top every single year. This year why not combines together with the rest of your family and all contribute to the food on Christmas Day?
Each person in the family could be responsible for one item on the menu and you’ll have your food sorted for the whole day, including leftovers! Skip out on buying overpriced cakes and desserts too. Get busy in the kitchen and rustle up some homemade sweet treats. You will look like you have made a ton of effort and there is no doubt that your perfect puddings will go like hot cakes.
There are an abundance of ways in which you can stretch your money this festive season. You’re bound to find the trick that works for you and your family. Don’t be afraid to stand your ground and make decisions, because ultimately Christmas is about spending time with those you love and not conforming to the norms within society. Let’s celebrate being different and save our precious pennies!
