As a young family we don’t have tons of extra money to spend on Christmas. I start planning and budgeting months in advance so that we can buy gifts for our families.
I think it is important to remember that not having a lot of money at Christmas time doesn’t mean that Christmas can’t be fun and exciting for every one! Your kids will follow YOUR lead, so if you are stressed and upset, then they will remember Christmas that way, even if you get them 100’s of gifts! But if you are joyful, excited and a bit creative they will remember making happy memories as a family regardless of what gifts you get for them!
There are very few specific presents that I remember receiving as a child, but I DO remember our family times together. Honestly, the gifts I remember most, are the ones that are connected to later memories with my family!
Now that I have my own family, we buy a few low key gifts for each child (most are purchased 2nd hand) and then I try to do lots of crafts and other family traditions each year to make this time of year special and memorable! I have special toys hidden away with our Christmas decorations that only get pulled out at Christmastime, and we try to do a lot of fun things together as a family. Gifts or no gifts, extra money or no, Christmas can be a thrilling time of year celebrating the birth of Christ and celebrating the gift of family. It just takes a bit of creativity (or a handy list like this one!) and the willingness to give it a go!
My Friend Kathryn and I created a list of 27+ ideas for a low budget Christmas. We both do many of the things on the list, and I hope that you can find some wonderful cheap traditions to use from our list as well.
Click on the image below to go directly to the post on Kathryn’s blog to see the entire list!
For even more ideas check out my “christmas on a budget” pinterest board!
What are some ways YOU save money during the holidays!
While we are talking about Christmas savings, I wanted to share this awesome ebook with you! It has ONE HUNDRED ideas for frugal gifts. They each cost less than $100 and they are all still do-able between now and Christmas! Click the image below to grab your copy for only $2!
Kelli says
Great reminder not to overdo at Christmas as well.:))
Heather says
We open the bags in our Advent Box each year. It is easy to make (for friends too) and not expensive at all. If you know how to sew, you’re halfway there.
What Joy Is Mine says
Paula…thank you for the great ideas and for sharing at WJIM. I am featuring you this week and am excited to do so. Have a blessed week.
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