| The holidays are always an occasion where one | | | | they buy. You could even have each person draw |
| enjoys celebrating with family and friends. As well, | | | | a name of a family member and only buy a |
| it is a time where we have increased expenses. | | | | present for that person. As well, talk to extended |
| This can be a very anxious time for people who | | | | family and friends about cutting back on the |
| have to watch what they spend. It can often be | | | | number of gifts that will be exchanged. During |
| difficult to spend moderately as we want to | | | | difficult economic times, people will appreciate |
| make sure we are able to create the best holiday | | | | cutting back on the number of gifts they have to |
| experience. The great news is that there are | | | | purchase. If you want to give something |
| many ways to save money so you can worry | | | | inexpensive, give out cards or a homemade gift. |
| less about bills and relax and enjoy the holidays. | | | | 4. Shop Wisely: When making your list of |
| The following are a list of tips to save money and | | | | everything you need to buy for the holidays, cut |
| enjoy the holidays: | | | | down on excess. For instance, only purchase a |
| 1. Check Home Inventory before Shopping: Go | | | | moderate amount of decorations. You can also |
| through your kitchen, pantry, and storage room | | | | make homemade decorations with your children. |
| to see what items and food you already have in | | | | Look for discounts on food and beverages. You |
| stock. Often people will have a lot of items stored | | | | can buy in bulk. Look for sales in local newspapers. |
| away so they do not have to go out and buy | | | | Don't buy more food than you will need. When |
| new items. As well, check the expiry dates on | | | | shopping, try to combine shopping trips such as |
| your gift certificates and coupons. You can save a | | | | purchasing gifts and going to the supermarket in |
| lot of money if you don't buy things that you | | | | one trip. You will save money on gas. |
| don't need. | | | | 5. Inexpensive Parties: When you entertain, hold a |
| 2. Shop Online: If you are looking to cut costs | | | | potluck where everyone brings a food dish. |
| when shopping for holiday gifts, there are many | | | | Purchase beverages when they are on sale. |
| online retailers that are offering great deals on | | | | Guests can also bring a bottle of wine or other |
| their products. Not only is it a great way to get | | | | alcoholic beverage. You can also host a brunch |
| some deals, you will also save time because you | | | | that consists of inexpensive foods such as eggs, |
| will not have to fight your way through crowded | | | | salads, toast, hash browns... etc. |
| shopping malls. Most online retailers offer | | | | The holidays are a wonderful occasion to enjoy |
| discounted prices on brand name products as well | | | | spending time with friends and family. If you are |
| as free shipping. | | | | on a tight budget, you can still have a very |
| 3. Set a Gift Spending Limit: Gather your family | | | | enriching and fun holiday by making a few simple |
| and discuss setting a spending limit for each gift | | | | changes in how you spend your money. |