Christmas is meant to be the season of goodwill to all, but sometimes we forget to be good to ourselves (and our wallets) in the process. The costs of the festive season can really mount up, with all the component parts combining to create a lot of pressure. Gifts to buy, food for everyone, decorations to update…it can all get a bit much, and the spirit of the season gets lost in the process.
This year, we’re thinking about dialling it back and creating a Christmas that won’t break the bank. It’s all about reconnecting with the spirt of the festive season, making time for family and dropping some of the more commercial aspects in favour of enjoying what Christmas has to offer.
Budget-friendly decorating tips
If you’re anything like us, you’ve got a box of Christmas decorations stashed away – some of which you don’t use any more. Before buying anything new, pull out your existing decorations and see how they can be refreshed.
Try adding ribbon or twine to old ornaments, or invest in some gold or silver spray to update shabby baubles. You could also swap ornaments with friends to help everyone create a new look.
There’s also plenty of free inspiration in nature. Pine branches, holly sprigs, pine cones and twigs can help create a lovely homemade display. If you don’t have any evergreens in your garden, ask friends for permission to harvest at theirs. You could also collect dead pinecones and twigs from local parks rather than laying into local trees with the secateurs!
Create a gorgeous garland by wiring pine twigs, conifer and holly to a large rope with florists’ wire. Add in small baubles or dried orange slices. You can cut holly ‘berries’ out of felt, string them together and tie them into place for a bit of colour. A design of paper snowflakes on a window pane can look elegant and delicate.
Clever catering
Last-minute grocery runs drain your budget fast. Decide your menu early, compare prices, and shop strategically. Check prices online for any big-ticket items, such as turkey. Many shops run special offers running up to Christmas, so keep an eye out for anything which can be purchased in advance.
Delicious doesn’t necessarily mean expensive. If you have guests staying over Christmas, a bowl of homemade soup makes a filling lunch and only costs pennies to make. Festive ideas include honeyed parsnip or ‘roast dinner’ – chicken, potato and carrot. If guests are arriving for dinner only, ask everyone to bring a dish to make a shared celebration.
Gorgeous gifts
The important thing is to agree a budget in advance with family and friends. Setting the budget low can be surprisingly fun, as it encourages creativity amongst donors! If you’re a good cook or a skilled photographer, you could spend your gift budget on framing a special photo or buying ingredients for a homemade food present. You could also try a Secret Santa gift exchange where everyone buys presents for any children as usual but also for one nominated adult only.
While taking a family to organised Christmas events can be costly, there are lots of things you can do which are budget-friendly. Festive film night (complete with mince pies and sherry/hot chocolate); baking Christmas cookies or driving round to see local festive lights will all help to boost the spirit of the season without breaking the bank.
Christmas on a budget isn’t about limiting joy in the season, but about focussing on what’s really important. Stepping away from the pressure and embracing creativity and family values might help to make this your best Christmas ever.
