So, you’ve already filled inexpensive glass vases with lemons, limes and oranges to add pops of color to your holiday dinner table. And you’ve used the trick of arranging peppermints in a silver dish to save on costly Christmas decorations, but now you need more ideas to preserve your budget this holiday season.
Here are a few money-saving ideas to help you keep more green in your pocket as we countdown to Christmas:
Paper Rules: Instead of investing in high-priced seasonal decor, cover frames with Christmas-themed wrapping paper and add some bows to complete the look. Or, use patterned scrapbook paper to make picture frame mats and insert photos of your family from past Christmases. Use leftover paper bags to make turkeys. Then, place them on the dinner table before guests arrive.
Ask for Help: Just because you are hosting the holiday dinner, doesn’t mean you should be strapped with all of the responsibilities. Don’t be afraid to admit if you can’t shoulder the financial burden on your own. In most cases, family members and friends are more than willing to help with side dishes or if they don’t cook, then they can spring for beverages or flowers.
Reduce Travel Expenses: If you need to take a flight to get home for the holidays, check for the best rates on aggregate sites, such as Expedia and Kayak. In addition, look for other ways to score discounts, such as club memberships. AAA and AARP offer significant travel savings to its eligible members. If you are traveling by car, skip the pricey pit stops at restaurants. Instead, pack a cooler with snacks and drinks.
Homemade Wrapping Paper: Who says you have to drop a bundle to wrap your holiday gifts? Rather than spending a ton of cash on fancy wrapping paper and embellishments, use non-traditional covers, such as the funny pages from the newspaper or clean, brown butcher paper which kids can decorate with holiday scenes using crayons, markers and glitter.