As we approach this holiday season, we will be featuring fun facts about some of the upcoming winter holidays. We’ll even share some tips like recipes and how to make sure you’re spending smart on holiday gifts. Read on to learn more:
For some, this time of year is incredibly stressful because all the gifts and fancy dinners can add up to a serious financial hit. With some smart planning, though, you can get through the holidays with your sanity and bank account intact. Here are some tips:
Change your gifting habits
If you have a lot of friends, co-workers or a big family, purchasing gifts for everyone can be a financial burden. Even with a low spending cap, shelling out $5 or $10 for each person’s gift can add up quickly. Instead, get a group to do a gift exchange. Draw one another’s names and give only one person a present. This way, you’ll spend less money overall and be able to focus on shopping for one great gift instead of a bunch of small or meaningless ones.
Getting creative is another wonderful way to save money on gifts. Instead of wracking your brain for the best purchase, think outside the box. Maybe you can make something instead! Consider knitting a scarf or hat, putting together a memorable scrapbook or baking tasty treats for someone you love. These gifts will live on in the recipient’s mind longer than something you snagged at an outlet mall last minute. Plus, they’re much less costly than store-bought alternatives.
Save up ahead of time
Presents aren’t the only financial burden around the holidays. Traveling, hosting dinners and attending parties all require money that we don’t usually spend. You don’t have to skip the airfare and honey ham if you save up ahead of time. It’s a good idea to set aside some money a month or two before the holidays to help alleviate stress. You can even set your bank account to automatically set aside an amount from each paycheck into a separate account for special occasions. Or remember how much you want to put aside each paycheck and use those funds when it comes time to purchase airfare back home or pay the bill for holiday grocery runs and dinners out.
Bargain hunting
Along with the excitement that develops around this time of year, the holidays are also surrounded by serious deals. You don’t need to camp outside department stores for their door buster deals, but you can make use of some holiday sales. Black Friday is a popular time for many retail stores to offer price markdowns, but it’s important to still be a smart shopper. Always check the price of the item you’re looking to purchase at various stores. Comparing your options lets you know when’s the best time to buy and where to get that coveted item for the lowest price. Look for pre-black Friday events too. Some stores will have higher price reductions at this time because they hope you’ll go to their locales before the competition.
Over the next three weeks, visit our blog to learn a bit about Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa and some of the traditions associated with each of these holidays, like favorite foods and festive dress.
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CHC