Shop Till You Drop
The shops are filled to the rafters with decorations and colourful lights. Everybody has some sort of special running and sale signs sparkle, any person would be tempted to fall into the trap of overspending and blowing the budget when it comes to Christmas shopping.
BUT!!!
Before you fall into the jolly trap of hopeless spending read ways in which to curb your spending, who knows there might be some money left over to make use of later in the year or during the holiday time.
Set a limit
Set a general price limit when it comes to gifts. If you have a large family agree to spend no more than R100 on a present. A present can be R100 or can consist of a few gifts that total to the set amount.
Make a Christmas gift list
Make a list before venturing into the shop. Create a list of all the people that you are needing to buy gifts for and a few ideas on what you would like to get them. Stick to the list and don’t get side tracked by other pretty items hanging here and there.
Leave extra money at home
If you agreed on a set limit regarding the Christmas gifts then only take that money to the shops and not any extra.
If there is extra money in your wallet you will probably spend it!
Split packages
During this time almost all the shops are selling items grouped together.
Split these items up and pair with a less costly item like chocolates.
One package can provide you with 3 or more smaller gifts.
Make your own gifts
With so many ideas published in magazines and online one can easily make your own cost effective, beautiful gifts. Fill jars with colourful sweets, make your own meringues, bake your own cookies or make jewellery. There are so many ideas and once you are done you can wrap them up in beautiful paper or put them into tins or boxes.
Think outside of the box
Wrapping paper can be just as expensive. Don’t throw your old newspapers away, keep them and use them for wrapping paper. Top with silky red and green ribbons and VOILA!
One can also make use of glass jars. Before you toss the jar, consider using it as something to put a gift into. Soak in boiling water, remove the label, wash with dish washing liquid and leave to dry. You can spray paint or paint the jar, the ideas are endless! Visit local craft stores to get more inspiration.
Start shopping earlier
Start shopping way before Christmas time, if you can start by October, even better! You will be less influenced by the crowds of people and the hub-bub of the festive season. The shops will be quieter, which will give you more time to focus on what you need to get and how much it will all cost in the end.
Secret Santa
This is probably one of the better ways to limit your spending. This system allows guests, co-workers, family or friends to purchase one gift and it is then placed into a pile upon which each person get’s a single gift. No need to buy each person in the office a gift!
via showme
