FIVE ways to Save and Have Stress-Free Holidays!

The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and togetherness. However, the hustle and bustle and COSTS of the season can quickly become overwhelming if you're not prepared. By planning ahead and budgeting wisely, you can ensure a stress-free and enjoyable holiday experience.

1. Gift Giving: Planning and Budgeting

•  Create a Gift List: Start by making a list of everyone you plan to give gifts to. Consider the cost per person and their wish lists

•  Set a Budget: Determine how much you want to spend on gifts overall. This will help you avoid overspending and stay within your budget.

•  Consider Alternatives: Explore alternative gift ideas that don't involve spending money, such as homemade gifts, sharing experiences, shopping secondhand or making charitable donations.

2. Entertaining: Planning Parties and Gatherings

•  Decide on a Theme: Choose a theme for your holiday parties or gatherings to create a festive atmosphere.

•  Make a Guest List: Invite guests well in advance to give them ample time to respond.

•  Delegate Tasks: Divide responsibilities among family and friends to make planning and hosting easier.

•  Plan the Menu: Create a menu that caters to different dietary needs and preferences. Consider potlucks or buying ready-made to save costs and effort. 

3. Travel Planning:

•  Book Early: If you plan to travel for the holidays, book flights, accommodations, and transportation well in advance to secure the best deals.

•  Pack Smart: Make a packing list and pack efficiently to avoid forgotten essentials and baggage fees.

•  Ship Gifts to Your Destination:  Save lugging them there but address them to a pet (ex: “Fido Jones”) so that people know to leave YOU to open the packages!

•  Consider Alternatives: Explore possible options, such as celebrating on different days or celebrating virtually to save time and money.

4. Food and Beverage Planning:

• Make a Grocery List: Plan your special and everyday meals and snacks in advance to avoid last-minute shopping trips.

•  Consider Bulk Purchases: Buy non-perishable items in bulk to save money if you have room to store them and will eat them.

•  Don't Forget Beverages: Plan for alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to cater to all guests.

5. Other Costs to Consider:

•  Holiday Cards: Purchase or create holiday cards & stamps, and address them well in advance.

•     Traditions & Events: Reconsider traditions, does everyone really still enjoy "The Nutcracker outing?  If so grab tickets early, if not stay home or replace with a drive to see light displays.

•  Decorations: Set a budget for new holiday décor or tableware and consider reusing decorations from previous years.

•  Charitable Donations: Budget for charitable donations if you want to give back during the holiday season.

•  Tips to Service Providers: Don’t forget to thank your hairdresser, lawn service, babysitter, cleaning staff, etc…

By following these tips and planning ahead using these planning pages, you can alleviate stress and enjoy a more joyful holiday season. Remember, the most important thing is to spend quality time with loved ones and create lasting memories.