At this writing, Christmas is still three months away and already the stores are putting out the red & green. In fact, it’s been out for a few weeks now. The Christmas season seems to get longer and longer and require a budget that gets bigger and bigger. The holidays truly are a joyous time, but for many can be financially stressful. Here are some suggestions to help keep the spending under control and put the “Merry” back in your Christmas.

Email Christmas greetings to as many people as possible. This not only saves you the cost of cards and postage, but also from a vicious case of writer’s cramp as well! You can still send pictures and a sweet sentiment and if you’re crazy busy like most people, you can send them at almost the last minute and still get them there on time.

Consider drawing names for gifts for a large family or giving only to the children. In these days of financial uncertainty, more families are willing to have a smaller pile of presents under the tree rather than place a burden on themselves and others. Change the focus of gatherings from sharing gifts to sharing time together: watch a holiday movie, go caroling, play games, etc.

Bring a group gift for coworkers rather than individual ones. Bake cookies or a special dessert and serve with cocoa or coffee. Or make a fruit and candy tray for everyone to share. You can still give individual cards to express thanks or holiday wishes if you want to be more personal.

Think on the practical side. If you are in the service profession or have a special skill, give the gift of service this year. Give coupons good for anything from haircuts, an oil change, a gourmet meal, a manicure, babysitting or even running errands. These services would be greatly appreciated by those living on a budget and can help you stay within your own also.

If you are crafty or artistic, you have a wonderful opportunity to create treasured handmade gifts. Photographs, drawings, paintings, handmade blankets, quilts, or decorations are always very thoughtful especially if they are personalized in some way. Use your talents to save a little money and create one-of-a-kind gifts with no worries about duplicates! Just be sure to start early and give yourself plenty of time if it’s a lengthy project.

If you are able to do so, tactfully request gift cards instead of gifts. That way, you can opt to buy more practical items for yourself if you choose, which may be very much appreciated when those holiday bills start coming in!

You already know this, but it’s worth saying again…hit those after-holiday sales! Try to save a portion of your Christmas allowance for after the big day. You can find items such as gift wrap, bows, decorations, cards and even gifts at huge savings…up to 75% off, maybe more. It can take a huge chunk out of next year’s costs, not to mention save you some time then as well.

Above all, remember the true meaning of the season. Don’t feel like you have to be everything to everyone. Your family and friends will still love you even if you don’t get what’s at the top of their list. And your honest thoughtfulness will be remembered far longer than another pricey bauble.

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This entry was posted on Friday, September 26th, 2008 at 3:59 am.