Christmas on a Budget

This weeks blogging carnival question is: When it comes to holiday shopping, how do you make sure you stick to your budget?

I have a few tricks up my sleeve and since I love my readers I will part with my secrets 😉 First things first, set your budget. Oh wow, thanks Ashley that's so profound! Yes, I know it's not very deep but seriously, if you start out with a set price in mind you are more likely to keep it. I don't set an overall total, I set a limit on each person. Second, I shop throughout the year. If you know ahead of time who you are buying for (your kids, husband, family members) keep an eye out. A lot of stores clearance things monthly, making it easy to find great deals on gifts. Toys go on major clearances twice a year. Once in August/September to make way for Christmas, and then again in January to clear out the leftover stock. I get most of my toy shopping done for Christmas (and birthdays too) during these times.  Third, be willing to put in the extra “leg work” and shop around. Always check online prices prior to buying in store. A lot of stores price match their competitors even if it's an online deal, you just need to ask firmly yet nicely. Speaking from retail experience, I'm more likely to help you if you are kind then if you take out all your frustrations on me. Another trick of the retail trade, more then likely, that “amazing deal” you see advertised for black friday already happened a few weeks prior it just wasn't shouted from the roof tops. Finally, I give out homemade gifts to teachers and family. Grandparents love anything made by the kids, so I'm happy I didn't have to spend a bunch of money and they are happy because little Suzy painted them a masterpiece. Win-Win.

Don't stress about finding the perfect gift. There is no such thing, just find something that the person will like. After all, it is (and should be) the thought that counts!!

“This post is sponsored by Reflect It Apparel and I’m writing this to be entered into a giveaway hosted by Mamavation – a community dedicated to obesity prevention & weight loss for women” The money saving tips are all mine!