With the holidays quickly approaching, it is time to start thinking about ways to reduce stress and hopefully save money. I hope you find these tips helpful!
–Order personalized holiday cards now (Storkie holiday cards are really cute!) To avoid the last minute rush (and stress), you should order your cards now. You will have plenty of time to fill them out and get them ready for mailing when December rolls around!
–Start buying presents! If you start holiday shopping now, you can take advantage of some great deals at stores, and without the crowds! One good idea is to pick a person per week, and buy one present for that person. The following week, choose another person you are going to buy for, etc. Not only will you have only one person in mind for just the right gift, but it helps your budget rather than buying everything at once.
–Use that change! If you collect change all year long (the pocket change that everyone throws into a container), this is a great time to turn the change into gift cards at a CoinStar machine. I did this last year, and was surprised just how much money I had accumulated – in change!
–Plan your holiday meal – collect recipes, and non-perishable items that will be used in these recipes. Again, if you can buy a little at a time, your wallet will thank you!
–Make reservations – If you will not be doing the cooking this year, or your family’s holiday tradition is eating out at a restaurant, go ahead and reserve your table. This is one less thing to do later
–Travel arrangements – flying or traveling for the holidays? Book those flights and accommodations now. The holidays are a busy time, and the sooner you can book flights and hotels, the more money you will save.
–Stock up on wrapping paper – since we are technically not in the holiday season yet, you might be able to find some good deals on holiday wrapping paper, gift bags, etc. if you purchase now.
–Get rid of old toys – chances are your kids will be getting new toys for the holidays. Start clearing out the toys and games they don’t play with anymore and donate them. Other kids will enjoy their “new” toys, and you will have room to store the new items your kids get.
–Update your decor – do you have old, sad looking holiday decor that has been around for years? Maybe it is time to freshen up your holiday decorations. Go through your bins and decide what you no longer need/like and get rid of them!
–Do something fun! How about creating your own place setting cards or place mats for your holiday dinner? Get the children involved for some good old-fashioned family fun. Your guests will be delighted!
*I am being compensated for this post, although all ideas are my own!
Debbie
Great tips!! Thanks so much for sharing
blueviolet
I stock up on my paper the day after Christmas and I swear I have enough for 10 years. I like your idea of using the change for Christmas!