It’s the most wonderful time of the year…and the most wonderfully expensive! That new plaid dress for Taste of Scotland, tickets to A Christmas Carol at the Alexandria Little Theatre, and – the big one – holiday gift giving. It can add up quickly and easily, getting swept away by the holiday decorations, marketing enticements, and the ease of tapping that credit card at checkout. Before you crush January-You in credit card payments, here are five ways I save money when Christmas shopping to ensure I enjoy the season and still start off the New Year on top of things.

1. Budget

*Christmas carolers interrupt Silent Night with a chorus of boooos* 

I know, I know. But before you skip this one, this doesn’t have to be a bore! Take a notebook or a spreadsheet and list the people you want to give gifts to this holiday: family, close friends, book club White Elephant, and don’t forget to include anyone you’ll want to generously tip as a gift (like your chiropractor that keeps you in alignment on the regular). 

Start to put down some numbers for the gift limit you’d like to use as your guide this year. Make sure to monitor how the numbers all add up. Need to get thrifty for some? Don’t worry, we can get creative (see #2). Once you have your numbers in mind, it’s time to start identifying gifts.

2. Time Over Things

As a financial advisor dedicated to increasing the assets of my clients, let me share a little secret about the most valuable asset you have: time. Share it with others! Maybe you buy a cooking class with your foodie friend, a winery visit with your oenophile brother, an outing to Enchant with your nieces and nephews. 

Here are some creative ideas with bonus points for being inexpensive or even free – throw in a treat like their favorite latte or a cocktail to celebrate, and it’s a great outing:

• Paris 1874: The Impressionist Movement – National Gallery of Art

• Season’s Greenings – U.S. Botanical Gardens

• Walk through Theodore Roosevelt Island

• Scout the Vietnam Women’s Memorial on the National Mall with a copy of The Women

3. Live By The List

Santa checks his twice for a reason. Once you have your ideas down with your budget as your guide, time to execute! Make notes in your list of the items purchased along the way. Found something you couldn’t resist? Amazing! What a wonderful moment to find something and think “this is perfect for Mom.” Just make sure to update the list and keep your eye on the costs. Future You is so grateful for you!

4. Shop Early

I already snagged some gifts at Red Barn’s recent holiday reveal, taking advantage of their discount at the party! With your list and budget in mind, it’s a great way to navigate purposefully through promotions – both at the stores and online. Without aimless scrolling and mindless ‘add to cart’ing, you’ll find great deals on the items you identified. Take that list with you on Plaid Friday and see what you can save!

5. Donate to Charity

For family and friends that are charitably inclined, this is a great gift! Not only are they touched that you understand what really matters to them, but this is also a potential tax deduction for you – cha-ching! My father is passionate about bringing safe, clean drinking water to communities around the world, and every year I make a donation in his honor at Christmas. We share in the joy of spreading the season of giving beyond our own Christmas tree. I think that beats some new golf tees and socks any day!

Happy holiday shopping! See you out there – with my list in tow!

This communication is for informational and educational purposes only. No content or reference is intended to be a recommendation for the sale or investment in any product, strategy or service nor should it be perceived as individual advice. Please seek the advice of a financial advisor regarding your particular financial situation. Visit xmlfg.com for more information. 

SEE ALSO: Conversations With Family...at the Thanksgiving Table