Ways to Trim Your Holiday Expenses This Year

The holidays can be an exciting time of the year. However, it can also be a time of expanding your budget more than usual. Here are ways to trim your holiday expenses this year. 

Buy gifts for children during the summer and early fall. 

In most places, there are tons of summer sales and end-of-summer sales you can take advantage of to save a little bit more when shopping for little ones. 

Buy Christmas decorations after the holidays at discounted prices. 

Retailers often sell their Christmas decorations at discounted prices in January and February, so wait until after the holidays and then buy everything at a cheaper price. 

Make your own Christmas cards instead of buying them at expensive stores or online stores. 

Making a homemade card doesn't have to cost a fortune. So, next time you're looking for Christmas cards, think of making your own at home. Here are some easy and cheap ideas: 

1. Buy blank greeting cards from the dollar store or supermarket 

2. Use your scrapbooking paper 

3. Print your own photos from Instagram or Facebook at no cost. 

Make edible gifts. 

Make your own homemade jams, jellies, cookies or candy and gift them to your friends and family. They will be so touched by the thoughtfulness of your gesture! 

Buy gifts online through sites like eBay, Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace instead of shopping at retail stores like Target and Walmart during the holiday season (Black Friday). 

Buy used items instead of new ones whenever possible. Used items may cost less than new ones and can often be just as good quality - if not better - than what you would buy new at a store! You can find used items online through sites. 

Consider alternatives to traditional gifts. 

Instead of buying expensive gifts for everyone on your list, try making them yourself instead. Homemade gifts don't have to be elaborate; they just need to be thoughtful and personal. 

Instead of buying gifts for everyone on your list, consider giving money in envelopes instead (with a note). 

This way people can buy what they want without feeling obligated to spend money on others if they don't want to do so. It's the thought that counts, but if you're not sure what to get for everyone on your list, consider giving money instead. You can buy gifts for people you know personally or gift cards for things they might enjoy. 

Consider doing something creative with your family.

It's the most wonderful time of year to do something fun with your loved ones. Share a special memory by making homemade gingerbread houses, decorating cookies, or even doing a craft project together. 

It’s possible to save money during the holiday season! At Bay Breeze Apartment Homes, we love every season with our residents! Schedule a tour today by visiting our website at www.baybreezeapartmenthomes.com.