Christmas Without the Cost

Christmas is supposed to be about fun and love and celebration. Re-read that last sentence and say it out loud. Several times. Christmas is not supposed to be about stress and money and worry and pressure.

If your budget doesn't stretch to a huge extravagant Christmas; you are not alone. You can still have a wonderful celebration, you may just need to be a little more creative. By voicing your concerns to friends and family, you may well help them out too – there can be a huge pressure to keep up with the Jones' at this time of year.

Remember the 3 R's – Reduce, Reuse and Recycle

Okay, so the 3 R's are actually aimed at waste and the environment, but they work just as well at Christmas.

Reduce

One present is just fine for everyone and it doesn't need to be expensive. If you are really stretched, just buy for the children, or do a secret Santa, with a spending cap! Practical gifts such as petrol vouchers can also be much appreciated for those wanting to go away somewhere special.

Reuse

If you care for your Christmas decorations and use an artificial tree, you shouldn't have to buy new decorations every year. Put them in different places around the house for a different look. Use tea-light candles to create an atmosphere when people visit, rather than increasing your power bill with lots of lights.

Recycle

Take cuttings of cherished plants in your garden or grow from seeds, which are inexpensive to buy. Plant them in paper cups, which can be transferred straight into the garden and give a living gift, that may even bear fruit (or flowers or vegetables).

Two Birds, One Stone

Bake beautiful biscuits or treats and give them as gifts to friends, teachers and colleagues – they double as a contribution at a party and are a wonderful gift.

Create Christmas e-Cards

Cards and postage become very expensive. Take some time to design a beautiful card at home and email it – it will arrive quickly and is personalised.

Gather Points Where You Can

Take advantage of loyalty schemes and gather as many points and rewards as you can through the year and redeem them at Christmas to keep your spending to a minimum.

Pitch In

If you are hosting a Christmas function, plan a menu and ask each guest to contribute one of the dishes on your menu to keep the costs down.

Go Retro

Christmas has only turned rampantly commercial in recent times. Hold a retro Christmas where it really is just about being together, playing games, sharing stories and love and celebrating the season. You may start a trend!