Christmas Tips & Tricks
Lots of people keep telling me I should really write down all my tips and tricks for things like traveling and Christmas shopping. So here goes!
With the upcoming Christmas season, I decided to start my "Tips & Tricks" blogs with some information about early preparation. With all the "worry" about preparing for the Zombie Apocalypse, I know that many of you have an idea how important early preparation can be to "survival". Well, staying on budget and getting things that your family could really use and want requires the same mindset! Some of the things I will be writing about include; early "Wish List" prep, How to watch for and find "Best Prices", how to get money for college while Christmas shopping, preparing the ultimate "Gift Buying" chart, and more! So keep checking back!
Today, I'm going to start with a few simple tips. First, it is not too early to start getting ideas from your kids, family and friends about what they really need for Christmas. In fact, asking questions now tends to get more realistic answers as friends and family might not expect that you're digging for Christmas ideas! I like to start by prepping my Christmas Notebook. I make a page for each of my kids and place their name at the top. Next, I take that notebook with me on a simple trip to a store. It's the perfect opportunity to walk around with my kids in the toy/ clothes/ shoes/ electronic/ bedding departments. When I see what they are drawn to and see their eyes light up, I'll write those items down and leave about 5-7 lines beneath to write how much they currently cost at stores and online as below:
Alyssa
teal wool scarf by Wentworth
(T) $19.99
(JCP) $24.99
The "T" here stands for target (the item is made up, lol). As I go to other stores, I carry my notebook with me. When I see the same or similar item at another store, I list it with the price. (JCP stand for JCPenney). I also check online with those same stores because prices and sales online are often different, and many times I can save taxes and even get free shipping.
Don't forget to add room for teachers, music instructors, neighbors, Pastors, or anyone else whom you usually give a gift. Prepping a Christmas Notebook may seem like a lot of trouble, but the more time you take to plan now, the less time and money you will end up spending running around getting the gifts you "forgot" later, plus, it can really be a life and budget saver when it comes to finding great deals when purchasing gifts you really want!
Another thing that is important is paying attention to adds and articles EARLY! For instance, here is a great "Introductory" clip about planning the best times to buy.
I was really happy to see this add, personally, as I was ready to trade in my "not-so-smart" phone on a new model this week! After watching this, I know to wait a bit to get a lot better deal.
Check back next time to see how to set up a Gift Shopping Chart that will help you plan and keep track of individual gifts, what you purchased, how much you spend, when you have it "in hand" (if you ordered online) and even when it is wrapped! Also, I will let you in on a few great ways to save for college (or pay off our current loans) while buying Christmas gifts, grocery shopping, or even eating out!
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