If it’s the most wonderful time of the year, why do we spend it making ourselves broke, only to feel depressed and burnt out in January? Strap in mamas, we’re going to talk Christmas on a budget.
It’s time for another budget friendly mama installment.
Sure, Halloween just ended, but it’s time. It’s time to make a list and check it twice; but this list isn’t a wish list. This, my dears, is a budget.
We all set arbitrary budgets for Christmas, but do we really stick to them?
How can we pull off a beautiful Christmas for our loved ones without breaking the bank, breaking a nail, or breaking anyone’s neck?
Easy. You got this mama, we’re going on a budget.
Step One: Start Early
Some moms start shopping in the spring. I was not that mom. I was usually the swearing, tired, overworked mom who is hoping that the drug store has everything she needs on Christmas Eve. After a few of these types of Christmases I was drained, defeated, and done.
I needed a new plan. For some people they limit the number of gifts, parties, commitments, or decorations. Some have a toy-free Christmas. And that works well for them. If this is you, enjoy the season! This however isn’t me. As exhausting as putting on a full Christmas spectacular with lights and bells and gifts and grog is, I really enjoy it.
My new plan to make this happen started simply. It started early.
By Halloween I had a list of all of the people I thought I’d like to get gifts for, another list of things I thought I’d need to purchase for the house (food, etc.), and a running budget sheet.
Starting early meant I had more time to budget, plan, and prepare. I can’t tell you what to budget. Only you know what is right for your family. But I can tell you this: The more lead time you give yourself, the better prices will be.
I watch clearance racks like a hawk.
I save coupons, gymbucks, points, and giftcards to make my budget stretch further. I shop online sales. And most importantly of all, I have a tribe of people who help me find deals and keep me accountable to my goal of staying within budget.
Step Two: Black Friday/Cyber Monday
For a few years now, stores have seen a huge dip in people who participate in Black Friday. Go ahead blame it on the millennial…I am one. (Ew.) But don’t blame me for long. Due to losses in sales, companies are actually further discounting their products to try and entice shoppers back. And you know what? It’s working.
Shopping online on the days leading up to and after Black Friday are a goldmine if braving the crowds isn’t your thing.
Personally, I’ve worked in retail a lot and am longing for a group of gals to dress up and brave the early morning shopping with coffee in hand and cheer to spread. (DM me if you’re in!)
Compare prices!
Target and Walmart are among retailers who will price match. MAKE SURE you’re getting the best deal by checking a few websites, adding a coupon, or googling to see if one is floating around out there.
Step Three: Breath, and have confidence in yourself.
Christmas on a budget is possible. Remember that your children will never remember the Barbie or Pokemon toy they got on their seventh Christmas. They will remember how much love and joy your brought them.
Enjoy the season mamas, see you out there!
