It’s rolling in fast people.
In fact it’s now less than three weeks away…
And while a lot of us are still frantically searching for the perfect Christmas gifts for the kids, as a mum with six children under the age of six, I know how important it is to save some serious dollars where you can.
Here are my top tips and tricks to make sure you have a very merry – and thrifty – Christmas.
Presents
Do NOT over buy! The term ‘it’s the thought that counts’ comes to mind…
You can actually hand-make a lot of amazing gifts; including flowers in a glass jar or vintage bottle, some fresh made chocolate truffles or nuts put inside a rustic jar lined with some baking paper.
There are so many great ideas – and at a small cost too.
Thinking of presents and giving something that someone really wants or needs is so much better than spending cash you don’t have on gifts they don’t want!
Decorating the table
Christmas crackers and some cheap bunches of white flowers mixed together can make a table look absolutely beautiful and festive at such a low price.
Chuck some fairy lights around and your home will feel magical!
Have a quick clean out
It’s not too late to sell some bits and pieces on Gumtree – aim to get rid of those things that are taking up room you’ll need when the house is full of new toys!
I just sold a couple of pieces of furniture for $200 – that’s some extra dollars in my pocket for Christmas.
The key to making stuff sell online is to take nice photos of them – if you present them well, you’ll get the best price.
Go second-hand
Gumtree and second hand shops aren’t only good for selling the things you don’t want.
They are the perfect place to find vintage dolls houses or doll furniture or home decor items – these one off pieces can make beautiful gifts for your little ones or for friends or family.
Make a list
We’re making a list and we’re checking it twice as it really helps with budgeting.
Write a list of all the food, presents and decorations you need and stick to it.
You can then budget a certain amount for each item and make a pact not to go over that set amount.
Every Christmas I used to over-buy on food and presents and treats but by planning I’ve saved thousands and you can too.
Food for thought
Hosting Christmas Day at your place? Get everyone to bring a plate.
It saves a fortune if the whole family brings something to the table and it’s a lovely way to get them all involved too.
Keep an eye on bargains now too. If you see anything half off or on sale and it will keep until Christmas, snap it up now!
Toys
With six kids, I’ve learned a lot about toys over the years and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this.
Don’t settle for the price you find. Toys R Us and Big W both price match and if you want to shop smart take advantage of that.
When you find the toy you want, Google the lowest price and see if you can find a shop that’ll match that price.
With these simple tips you can save yourself a fortune this festive season, and remembering these three things is key.
Plan ahead, find the best price and keep it simple.
If you do this, you’ll be on the right track for a thrifty Christmas.
The most important thing is the time you spend with family and friends – and that doesn’t need to cost a thing.
Krechelle Carter blogs at Eight At Home. You can follow her here
