It’s another November and the holiday season is just around the corner.
Many families are finding it challenging at this time of the year – to come up with the extra money for gifts, toys, parties, holiday accessories and clothing. The expectation to spend, spend, spend puts a lot of stress on many of us. To be merry is a chore and a challenge, especially for families with kids.
It is possible to limit our spending and create a more memorable Christmas that’s actually meaningful. Here are some ideas to help you.
- The best things are (almost) free!
Be creative and think of activities to do together. Offer to host a holiday movie night with family and friends. You can provide the popcorn, snacks and drinks. Ask guests to also bring a snack to share. They can also bring a small gift for gift exchange that’s no more than $15 or $20. Homemade items are welcomed and encouraged. - Creative gifts
Have your children make their gifts by using only their imagination (and not money). Homemade games, toys and crafts are great ideas to spur their creativity. For example: a request to make an ornament for Christmas 2025 to hang on the tree. - Gifts of time
Offer to dog-walk or babysit in the new year are great gifts for busy people. A luncheon or afternoon tea with mom is a wonderful gift for an elderly parent. - Gift to charity
Choose a charity to spend family time together with each December. Your kids will learn to appreciate the real meaning of Christmas – to give and not just to receive. - One gift only
Have adult family members exchange for only one gift. Christmas dinner to be potluck so the cooking is shared. - Potluck Christmas dinner
Have family and friends contribute to the holiday dinner by bringing a potluck item. You will have less stress, more time to enjoy the celebration and company.
Good to have a commitment to celebrate 2025 with less work, less stress and more imagination. Money can play a part but not the priority.
Happy Holiday Planning!