It is a recognised fact that Christmas is singularly the most expensive event of the year, so everyone is looking at cutting back and saving money. Most of us have accepted that the lavish gifts we've had in years gone by just won't be happening this year but gifts aside, we spend an absolute fortune of food, drink, entertaining and something special to wear. It is in these areas that we can make vast savings.
Every year we battle our way around shops pushing a shopping cart filled with enough food to feed a small army. Why do we do this? Christmas food items appear in the shops as early as November, and if you buy them early enough, you will often pay a lot less than you would nearer to Christmas day. So, whenever you go shopping, start getting little bits and pieces early. Set aside a shelf or cupboard for your ‘Christmas food'. You'll be amazed at how quickly one or two items a week build up. If you've left it too late to do that this year then make a mental note to do it next year.
Also it is wise to write yourself a list before you go shopping because bright coloured packages in stores make us feel like we have to buy them but if they are not on the list you do not need them. You can half your food shopping bill by just buying what you need. Those half price mince pies may seem like a bargain, but after you've thrown away six boxes in February, you'll realise they weren't such a good deal after all.
The same goes for drink. There's nothing wrong with splashing out on that special bottle of wine to go with your Christmas dinner, but you don't need those eight bottles of spirits that you religiously buy every year. We all make the mistake of buying an expensive bottle of something that we know a possible visitor likes, but how much will actually be drunk? Yes it's nice to offer your guests a glass of Christmas cheer, but just stick to a couple of general bottles and everyone will be happy. If you have a great array of drinks on offer, you will find that after Christmas you will have many bottles that have only had one drink out of them. If some of these are milk based liquors, they will need to be thrown out after a few weeks too.
Entertaining is a big Christmas event. If your parties are legendary, don't worry, you can still have them, but there are ways to save money here too. Food and drink again are the big expense. Instead of providing everything, ask everyone to bring a bottle. They won't be offended, and I'm sure they don't just flock to your party every year because of the drinks that you have on offer. Instead of elaborate food, just lay on a finger buffet. This is much easier for you to make, and a great deal cheaper.
If you do a lot of entertaining then clothing is all important. Don't blow a small fortune on a dress just to wear once or twice, recycle your outfits. That black dress you've had for a couple of years will look brand new with a few accessories or perhaps a shawl.
Follow these tips and you will still have a very merry Christmas, but can rejoice in the fact you have saved yourself a lot of money.