How to be Frugal this Festive Period
Tuesday, 7 December 2010
It is so easy to lose control of spending during this wonderful time of year! Gifts must be given, homes decorated and parties thrown, and adverts everywhere remind us of all the new, expensive things we need to do so.
Fortunately it is possible to give generously and have lovely celebrations without spending a lot of money. These few festive frugal tips will help you to keep the spending down and the spirits up during the holidays:
1. Set a budget.
It’s far too easy to walk into a store and come out with far more than we intended. Before stepping foot into a shop this season, set yourself a reasonable budget - and stick to it.
2. Use voucher codes.
All it takes is a bit of extra time to go online and search for voucher codes for your favorite shops. Why spend full price on an item when there very well might be a discount code? Make a list of items you are hoping to find and search for codes. You may be surprised by what great deals you find.
3. Make decorations and gifts.
Some of the most special gifts do not come from a shop. Putting thought and energy into creating a special item for someone shows how much you care for them, and the added bonus is that it often costs far less to create a gift yourself than to purchase a store-bought item. Frame a favorite picture with a second-hand frame, bake a batch of your favorite biscuits, or sew an ornament.
Decorate your home with items from the outdoors. String popcorn on thread for festive garlands. A child's artwork is always a nice way to decorate the home for the season.
4. Simplify parties.
It is tempting to go over the top when hosting a party during this time of year, but even the most elegant of gatherings can be done in style and for less. Borrow extra table settings from friends, or use mismatched, but complementary pieces from the charity shop. Several candles placed throughout the room are less expensive than fresh flower arrangements. Rather than offering several mixed drink options, simply mix one delicious cocktail and offer it when guests arrive. Rather than an elaborate spread of expensive foods, offer your favorite appetizer and a simple, comforting, one-pot meal.
With a bit of extra time and some perseverance, you can remain frugal, even at this time of year!
Fortunately it is possible to give generously and have lovely celebrations without spending a lot of money. These few festive frugal tips will help you to keep the spending down and the spirits up during the holidays:
1. Set a budget.
It’s far too easy to walk into a store and come out with far more than we intended. Before stepping foot into a shop this season, set yourself a reasonable budget - and stick to it.
2. Use voucher codes.
All it takes is a bit of extra time to go online and search for voucher codes for your favorite shops. Why spend full price on an item when there very well might be a discount code? Make a list of items you are hoping to find and search for codes. You may be surprised by what great deals you find.
3. Make decorations and gifts.
Some of the most special gifts do not come from a shop. Putting thought and energy into creating a special item for someone shows how much you care for them, and the added bonus is that it often costs far less to create a gift yourself than to purchase a store-bought item. Frame a favorite picture with a second-hand frame, bake a batch of your favorite biscuits, or sew an ornament.
Decorate your home with items from the outdoors. String popcorn on thread for festive garlands. A child's artwork is always a nice way to decorate the home for the season.
4. Simplify parties.
It is tempting to go over the top when hosting a party during this time of year, but even the most elegant of gatherings can be done in style and for less. Borrow extra table settings from friends, or use mismatched, but complementary pieces from the charity shop. Several candles placed throughout the room are less expensive than fresh flower arrangements. Rather than offering several mixed drink options, simply mix one delicious cocktail and offer it when guests arrive. Rather than an elaborate spread of expensive foods, offer your favorite appetizer and a simple, comforting, one-pot meal.
With a bit of extra time and some perseverance, you can remain frugal, even at this time of year!
