As Christmas decorations fill department stores and Christmas carols play in every shop, Christmas season is well and truly here.
Right now you’re more money-focused than ever as Christmas day plans are made, present lists created, and party invitations start to arrive. While tis’ the season to be jolly, you can still be cash-savvy at the same time.
One of the easiest ways to save money is to cut back on the expense of Christmas decorations. Whether it’s DIY, smart shopping, or recycling, you can still make your home look amazing and it’s not as hard as you think.
1. Buy Christmas decorations early
Ever wondered what is the most reduced stock on Boxing Day? Christmas decorations. As with most themed holiday merchandise, decorations are drastically reduced the day after Christmas.
In fact, you’ll now find decoration discounting slowly starts a few days before Christmas day. So with a bit of planning and purchasing in advance, you’ll get some serious bargains for the next year.
Source: news.com.au
2. Compare before you buy
Being prepared earlier means you won’t need to buy for convenience as the season nears, rather you can source great bargains a number of ways:
- Look through online stores. You’ll often find the same item online, and can price match between sites to make sure you’re getting the best price for the merchandise.
- Check discount department stores. Make sure you check out multiple stores when purchasing your decorations. For example, plain baubles are a Christmas staple, but you could be paying triple the price in a high-end department store compared to a discount department store.
Spending less on standard decorations will allow you to splash out on some show stopper decorations. What’s more, you’ll have plenty of money left for buying gifts for your loved ones.
3. Opt for DIY Christmas decorations
Let your inner crafter come out this year with do-it-yourself decorations. It’s an easy and creative alternative that will entertain you and the kids. Here’s a list of DIY Christmas ideas to get your creative juices flowing.
How to get started:
- Create a Pinterest decoration board, and pin images you like. Pinterest is your new best friend for inspiration.
- Find many helpful DIY tutorials via blogs and YouTube.
- Involve the whole family and have a crafting night.
The DIY decorations also double as personalised gifts to give to friends and family – saving you even more.
4. Split the decoration costs with friends
You don’t have to bear the brunt of the decoration expenses if you live with friends. Agree on a budget and split the cost with your housemates. Or better yet, assign specific items to each person. For example, one person buys the ornaments while the other gets the Christmas tree skirt. This way, you’ll know who gets to keep what when you all no longer live together.
5. Reinvent what you already have
You’ll be surprised by what you can achieve by just recycling and reinventing the decoration wheel. Using decorations that are a little broken or for a different purpose is a great way to not only save money but also storage space.
All you need is a bit of glitter and some metallic paint, and you can come up with some holiday-themed decorations. Have some bottles or apothecary jars that show potential? Fill these containers with ornaments or string lights. Or create a wreath out of fallen branches from your garden.
6. Borrow or swap decorations with your friends and family
Gather your unused decorations, and trade them with your family and friends. Chances are they’ll be happy to have “new” decorations without spending on brand-new items. A holiday swap party can make things extra fun. You can even invite your loved ones over and create DIY décor together.
7. Use non-traditional décor
A fancy Christmas tree with all the lavish ornaments isn’t the only way to achieve that festive spirit. If you’re on a tight budget, these unique Christmas tree ideas are great alternatives to traditional Christmas trees. From book trees to ladder trees, there’s something for everyone on this list.
8. Own the minimalist style
Less is more. With creativity and intention, minimalist decorations can create that elegant and effortless touch. Scale back on decorations and focus on specific areas in your home. You can impress your guests with a stripped-down Christmas tree with simple white lights and golden ornaments.
If you have all the Christmas decorations but could use an expert touch, you can hire a local decorator to put everything together. Beautiful Christmas decorations don’t have to cost you a fortune.
Christmas is certainly not going anywhere; It’s guaranteed to come back the same time next year and make a dent in your bank account. By being creatively practical, you can reduce the cost of decorating for the holiday season and leave you with money to spend on your loved ones instead.
