We can become what we want to be, by being what we want to become. Richard G. Scott

Spending Wisely

                                                       

How to Save Money on Christmas Gifts

When the holiday season rolls around, most of us find ourselves attempting to stretch our budget for Christmas gifts as far as we can.  Each year, we think next year we’ll have a bigger budget and won’t have to work so hard to figure how to get the absolute most for our money.  In the meanwhile, this year, consider some of these methods to stretch your gift budget:

1.  Give gifts that you have handmade, such as wreaths, Christmas ornaments, toys, candles, scented soap, handbags, jewelry, cookies, fudge, breads, etc.  The list is endless. Tap into your creative side and save many dollars compared to buying them in the store.  Children and teenagers can also contribute to the gift making, adding more meaning and memories for them, in addition to doing something special for someone.

2.  For gift wrapping, check out the packaging in fancy department stores and do the same for the gifts you’ve made.  For example, fudge treats seem to taste a lot better and look more expensive when wrapped in boxes and tied in a tower instead of giving them in a tin box.

3.  If there are gifts you have to buy from the stores, clip coupons and check out the store ads for discounts, for the day after Thanksgiving and/or during the holiday season.  You may have to adjust your list to coincide with the coupons you have found.  You can save lots of dollars, especially with electronic items, by purchasing the local newspaper this time of year and looking for sales and coupons at stores. There is fierce competition between stores you can benefit from.  Don’t wait too late to buy when the selection is gone and the prices are higher.

4.  Shop online.  If you’re busy and only have time to shop online, you may be able to save by not having to pay taxes on your purchase. Also, look for all the products that offer free shipping.  You can also look for sales and discounts online.  Make sure you only deal with merchants who have a track record for reputable business practices, including excellent customer service.

5.  If family lives far away or you are traveling close to the holidays, consider the convenience of gift cards.  There are online sites now that offer electronic gift cards that are redeemed online with referenced numbers. The gift card websites represent lots of stores, saving our environment from plastics and other waste.  Gift cards are also ideal because you do not have to wrap them and you save on shipping expense.

6.  If you are on an extremely tight budget, you can always re-gift.  When something is given to you, it becomes YOURS to do what you want to with it.  If you want to give it as a gift to someone else, that is your choice and it will save on your budget.

7.  Again, if you have to watch your pennies closely this year, you can give your “own coupons” for acts of service.  This works great for children and teenagers.  Parents love to receive a “coupon” for raking leaves, washing the car, or babysitting.  The ideas are endless for this category too.           

If you utilize these ideas, chances are you will not be in debt after the holiday season is over.  It’s always fun to give to others and let them know you are thinking and caring about them.  Your reward is even sweeter when the new year comes and you are not burdened with debt and you can start saving for Christmas gifts next year.

Happy Holiday Shopping!

Betty Gustin

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