Start holiday planning early to save more this year. If you’re worried about the affordability of the holidays this year, planning ahead can help you save. With a little organization, recycling and strategic shopping, your holiday can cost less this year, and be just as lovely.
Spread out your holiday expenses by starting early on your gift list. Then all your gift-giving expenses are not in the month of December. Make a rough list of all the gifts/people you need to buy for, and keep your eye out for sales starting now. Look in alternative spots for giftstoo: thrift stores, garage sales and dollar stores. Use reward points or coupons.
Or, handmake your gifts this year! Start now making heartfelt, personal gifts like artwork, crochet or knitting, a sewn item, or a special ornament. Grab a big gift basket at the thrift store, and slowly fill it with goodies for the next two months, adding one or two items every time you go to the grocery store.
Thrift your holiday décor — there is plenty to choose from. Wrap gifts in any kind of paper you have on hand. Make your own gift tags now by cutting up last year’s cards.
Finally, add this one to your calendar for next year: you’ll get the best deals on holiday décor and wrapping paper after the holidays. If you have storage space, after the holidays is the time to stock up on the cheap for next year.