One of the most important things I’ve ever done is to create a Christmas budget. Most of the time I’m able to stay within my means, but there are times I end up going over a bit. I understand, of course, that this is a very special and important time of the year. Because of that, I want to make it memorable but without breaking the piggy bank. I don’t usually go shopping in the months leading up to Christmas, but instead do my shopping all year round. I also make use of seasonal sales to buy those big ticket items and a reasonable price. I also can’t forget the savings that coupons bring me… and I’m not above a little re-gifting now and then. Another thing that I try to do is make my gifts or at least make 50% of them. But, that requires a budget all within itself (materials needed and the amount of gifts being made can add up quick!). Still, making a Christmas budget- whether it’s an all around budget, a gift budget, or a party budget; doesn’t have to be complicated and it can be accomplished.
So, how do I stay within my budget?
I create a spreadsheet in Excel, or use one of the existing templates and edit that one as I please. Most of the time I just use an existing template because it saves me time and work in Excel. Besides, that’s what the templates are there for, right?
If you’re like me and rely on those templates, here are a few from around the web:
Free Holiday Budget Worksheets
Enjoying a Simple Christmas With a Well Planned Budget
Holiday Budget from Organized Christmas
And, you can also grab my simple Gift Tracker here! The cute mice, that match the one on one of my printable Wishlists were designed by Karen at Simply Creative Living.
Kori
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Christmas budgets are a wonderful way to enjoy the Christmas season without the New Year regret! I wrote a post called “Christmas In July” on my blog if you are interested in reading that. I still can’t believe Christmas is right around the corner!