It's only how long to Christmas??????!!!!!!

Everytime I went in the car and listened to the radio or went to a shop this week – everywhere seemed to be about how close it is to Christmas.

Nicola even posted a poll about Christmas this week which my daughter took to mean she could listen to Christmas music!!! My response was ‘turn it off’!!

I had been feeling a bit smug that I had my little Christmas spending pot coming along quite well – made up of;

Everup cashback £37

Waitrose/john Lewis vouchers from my credit card £70

Cash for post holiday car boot and selling £60

Natwest rewards £60

Total £227

This was on top of some presents that I have already got and the girls have already had their main ones already (something I am not proud of)

My pot sadly however took a bit of a drop this week as Mollie came home and asked to go to an afterschool basketball club. They needed the next day a cheque or cash for £56. And considering I am not sure if I have a cheque book the only option was to dig into my Christmas fund.

If you are panicking that you have not budgeted or worried about the festive period here are some tips.

In the UK, the average spend on Christmas in 2022 was £642, down slightly from £670 in 2021, according to YouGov.

Write a list – we are big fans of lists and a list is a must. Have an idea of what you are going to buy, on who and how much you want to spend. Do not hit the shops without one.

Start early and shop around.

Utilise the pay days left – even if you can put aside £50 in each of Sept, October and November that is £150 for December spending

Be honest with your nearest and dearest – if you are really struggling tell people you are having a low key Christmas

Look for sales around at the moment – some stores are selling last season stock. And some stores are selling summer stock but you can grab some bargains. I have just bought this morning a barbie gift game for my daughter – as it was labelled as an outdoor game it was reduced. Its perfectly good game for indoors too. It was £2.99.

Never be afraid to buy 'second hand' for Christmas. Some charity shops have brand new and look on Vinted or ebay – some things may still be new with tags.

Linked to that agree a price limit to gifts

Play secret santa to reduce the number of gifts to buy

Loyalty cards – have you got forgotten loyalty points which can be transferred to vouchers. The other month I went into my favourite gift shop and was oblivious to that fact I had £30 to spend. I was walking out after spending money and the cashier said to me – are you aware you have this amount to spend!!! Felt like a winner that day

Get creative and make gifts – this could include a photo. I am a believer that people don’t print photos enough now they are on phones.

Gift little luxuries that you know people will use and love instead of wasting money. For example for my parents I will do a hamper of their favourite coffee, wine and beer as they have cut down since retiring.

Be sustainable with packaging – we use material and ribbons.

My last tip is plan ahead for January – it is such a loooooong month and if you over spend on Christmas it will hurt. Please ask for advice if you need help or are struggling.

If anyone has any other tips we are always on the look out for more

Laura and Nicola x