by A W Drake

Created on: November 25, 2009   Last Updated: November 27, 2009

Christmas is a time full of good cheer and festive spirit, but with overburdening costs and pressure to spend even more, the season can easily become tarnished. This year the recession has compelled many of us to reduce spending, but with these suggestions on simple ways to cut costs at Christmas it will hopefully still be a special and enjoyable time of year for everyone.

+Set a Limit on Spending+

The first step to cutting costs at Christmas is to decide ahead just how much can realistically be spent. The sooner this is done the better because it gives more time to fit Christmas into the spending plan of the household. It is much better to spread the cost of Christmas over months rather than weeks if possible.

+Gifts+

Put a limit on how much will be spent on the main present for the children and let them know beforehand this is the plan to avoid too much disappointment. Some of the savings made this way can then go towards smaller, cheaper gifts.

Arrange with family members a 'secret Santa' scheme whereby each person buys one gift for one person with an agreed price limit to avoid undue extravagance or meanness.

If you have a particular talent this can be put to use in making your own presents, especially as people often appreciate the extra time and thought that goes into such gifts. If knitting is something you enjoy then there is nothing better than a hand made sweater. For those with a talent for art then a painting or drawing, or even an artistic photograph will be very much appreciated.

If you are planning to buy clothes, try to have the nerve to wait until the last minute to buy them because many stores are now starting their New Years sales a week before Christmas.

+Gifts that Cost Nothing+

Rather than buying presents for all, there are some who would appreciate a gift in other forms. One suggestion is to pledge your time as a gift, which could possibly be spent doing some DIY jobs, or other activities the recipient would appreciate.

When visiting department stores look out for free samples such as perfumes and toiletries, which make good stocking fillers.

If you still have last years' unwanted Christmas gifts or birthday presents give them this year to those who may appreciate them. Make sure you don't return an old present to the original giver however.

+Shopping Online+

There are many savings to be found if shopping online, such as thetoyshop.com which offers many discounted goods. There are also many price comparison sites which go a long way to ensure you

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>