I like making Christmas feel special for my family, but I don’t want that to depend on spending more than we can afford. These are some ways we’ve kept the season within our budget.
Choose a manageable gift list
When I was in Japan, my host brother was delighted to receive one small toy for Christmas. That memory reminds me that a gift doesn’t need to be large or expensive to matter.
With my own kids, I try to keep our plans thoughtful and manageable.
Agree on a household gift budget
In our family, we used a ‘$20 rule’ for gifts to each other. Agree on an amount that fits your household before you start shopping.
Give DIY gifts
A handmade gift can be something small and useful. Choose a project you enjoy and can finish with the time and materials available.
You don’t need to learn a complicated craft to give something personal.
Make Your Own Christmas Cards
Christmas cards are lovely to receive, though buying and posting them can add up. Making a small batch yourself is one option.
Plan a dinner that fits your budget
Choose a dinner your family enjoys that fits the budget. A familiar casserole can feel just as welcoming as a more expensive centerpiece.
My mother often made a large baked ziti casserole for our Christmas meal.
I like having snacks, treats, and a special dinner. Planning ahead lets me spread out purchases and buy suitable ingredients when they’re on sale.
Reuse gift bags and wrapping paper
I save gift bags and wrapping paper that are still in good condition. It means I usually have something ready when I need to wrap a present.
Fold the bags and keep them together inside the largest one. Reuse only what you have room to store and expect to use.
Find a useful home for unwanted gifts
Sometimes I receive a gift I can’t use, such as clothing in a different size or style.
I’ve sold unused gifts on eBay while they were still in their packaging. Before listing something, consider whether the likely return is worth the time, fees, and postage.
If selling isn’t worth the effort, I donate the item. You can appreciate the giver’s thoughtfulness and still find a useful home for a gift that doesn’t suit you.
Making ornaments to sell
As a child, I made Christmas ornaments with my Girl Scout troop to sell at a local holiday craft market.
I’ve also made ornaments to sell on Etsy as an adult. I enjoy the work, and I keep track of materials and selling costs to see whether it earns enough to be worthwhile.
Now that my kids are older, I’d like to try making ornaments together.
If you sell seasonal items, plan around the delivery dates you can offer. List early enough to leave time for making, packing, and shipping each order.
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