• Instead of buying gifts for everyone, draw names (Secret Santa). Another idea is to discuss ahead of time not buying gifts for each other this year, or giving gifts just to the children.
  • Shop online. Online stores often have more selection. You also have time to search for an online coupon or promo code to use. If you save your items to your shopping cart but wait a day or two on placing the order, the store will often email you a coupon as well.
  • If you’re crafty, give homemade gifts. Gifts of service is a great option as well.
  • Shop with a list, and stick to it! This includes grocery shopping for Christmas dinner. Write down what you NEED and then get just that. Also, spread the cost of Christmas dinner out by picking up 1 or 2 things each time you go grocery shopping between this week and Christmas time. Grocery items that will stay good in the freezer or pantry can be picked up here-and-there to spread out the cost, or can be picked up before Christmas when you notice that item is on sale.
  • Don’t forget about the extra expenses, and start saving for those now. Extras such as babysitting that’s needed for work Christmas banquets, hairdresser appointments, Christmas cards and shipping costs (for gifts to be mailed).