December 6,2006
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How Not To Break the Bank This Holiday: Part 2 of 3
So, you've read in Part I that there are others like you, consummate Santa-types who may go overboard splurging on holiday treats. There's good news, however – you can still celebrate festively without breaking yourself in the process. In Part I we discussed how a little pre-game financial planning can keep you on track while buying gifts. Here in Part II, we move on to the next step of the your holiday spending strategy.
Step 2: Make a list!
You have probably determined who you need to buy gifts for this year. Hopefully, you have at least a vague idea. Choosing not to exchange gifts at all is a very thrifty option for the cash-strapped consumer, but that is just not possible for many people. That leaves us with two options – buying gifts with restraint, or getting creative.
You should feel free to get presents for your family and friends, but maintaining your resolve is the key to not going crazy with generosity. It is easy to get sucked in by the lure of cheery Christmas music playing nonstop in stores, and the sales strategies of retail merchants during this time of year do not help – it seems like there's a great deal around every corner! Make a list of what you want and realistically can afford to buy people, and stick to it. Bring it with you when you go shopping. Curb the impulse spending, and you'll win yourself a huge battle.
Also, if you are a creative type, give some thought to making your own gifts. It is true that some homemade gifts may be more costly and time-consuming to make, but using your talents judiciously may be the answer to your holiday pinch. Buy ingredients for yummy desserts in bulk, knit heaps of colorful, warm scarves, or devote your energy to a lovely watercolor for family members who will treasure it as a keepsake.
Keep reading in Part Three to find out about implementing your tips, and following through on your holiday money-saving plan.