Christmas on a Budget

As I mentioned in previous posts, we have been taking Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace University  course.  Of course, budgeting and staying on budget are essential to success with his method.  With Christmas just 51 days away, I've been looking into what gifts I can give on a budget.  The following are a few ideas.  I'm sure you might think of even more!


Watch for fantastic sales both online and in the store.  There are sales and then there are great sales!  Buyers have to be very selective and ready to move on if the sale isn't good enough for their budget.  There are many promotions for free (after coupon) or very low priced  items online.  The key is to be aware and pounce at the right time.  For example,  Snapfish has a promotion right now through 11/8.  Buy 1 8x11 photo book and get 2 more free when you use the code 1BOOK2FREE at checkout.  This would be an excellent, inexpensive gift for family.  There are also websites like www.groupon.com and www.mamapedia.com that have daily local deals or nation wide sales that could make a more expensive gift budget friendly.  Following or subscribing to money saving blogs is helpful in alerting you to potential inexpensive gifts.

Of course, Black Friday is an excellent time to catch some sales that are too good to pass up both in store and online.  There are several websites which have previews of the sales you can expect at many different stores and www.black-friday.net is one of my favorite.

Making your own gift is another option.  Whether it is jams, baked goods, or crafts, hand made items have a personal touch that is very special.  It is amazing what you can do with a little time and materials that you might have right at home.  One of the best websites that is full of simple craft ideas is The Crafting Chicks.  I plan to make the legwarmers they talk about here for my baby.  If you don't feel crafty, but like the idea of a homemade gift, check out Etsy.  There are many talented crafters selling some great items for very reasonable prices.  Offering a night of child care, handyman services or computer services are also great gifts.  Who says you have to spend money?? 


Make your own card or use Smilebox.  If you have very many cards to send, the cost can add up quickly between the card price and postage.  Many times I end up paying for cards that don't reflect my personal style or what I would like to say.   Smilebox is an excellent alternative.  They offer a variety of  designs and templates to which you can add photos, personal message and music and email to friends or post to Facebook.  Some basic designs are free however you do have to pay a few dollars if you want more options. 

 You can also make your own card or write a note.  It doesn't have to be time consuming or labor intensive.  A simple card with a personal meaningful message is priceless.

There are many, many more ways to save.  Stay in budget and see how creative you can be!