We are here again at our favourite time of the year! Christmas is here again—the season of joy, happiness, love, and lots of spending.
Our favourite time of the year, the month we all look forward to, yet there is a hike in the prices of everything that’s supposed to make it wonderful.
Let’s not forget you are to get gifts for all your family and friends, decorate your compound with different Christmas lights before Christmas Eve, and still feed the whole community.
Yeah, it is not so wonderful now, is it?
Want to know a secret though?
You can still have that magical Christmas on a budget. How?
There are several ways you can plan this season without breaking the bank, and in this article, we explore some of these tips.
Let’s dive in
Tips On How To Plan A Christmas On a Budget
1. Start With a Plan This Christmas
This shouldn’t come as a surprise. If you don’t want to spend much this Christmas, have a realistic budget.
The plan should cover gifts, food, decorations, trips, and everything you need this Christmas. It should contain the amount you intend to spend on each of the items on the list.
2. Try The Envelope Method This Season
Heard about the envelope system of budget? No. It is simply putting money in different envelopes or accounts meant for various categories based on your budget.
Imagine you have an envelope for every major Christmas expense. One for gifts, the other for foodstuffs, and another for the Christmas party.
The beautiful thing is that you are forced not to overspend because you are restricted to an envelope for a particular event.
Before you touch the next envelope for frivolous things, remember that January has 100 days.
3. You Don’t Need That Family Trip
You want to visit that trendy spot that opened in town, but is this season the best time to do that? Remember, you are managing your Christmas on a budget, and family trips are expensive during this period.
You don’t need to travel to have a beautiful Christmas; you just need to be together with your loved ones. Think about it.
You can always go when prices are affordable. You can even start saving towards it now.
4. Start A Magical Family Tradition
Nothing says love like spending Christmas time with family. You laugh, play, and have fun with your loved ones. Which makes it the perfect time to start a family tradition you can bond over.
It doesn’t have to be anything fancy or expensive. Maybe it’s a cosy movie night with popcorn and pyjamas. Or a game night filled with togetherness, smiles, and joy.
Make this Christmas the start of something beautiful, and let the tradition keep your hearts warm year after year.
5. Get Crafty This Season: Try DIY Decorations or Reuse Old Ones
What is Christmas without decorations? They put us in that Christmassy mood. However, decorations are now expensive, like everything in Nigeria. Instead of spending a lot of money on new ones, you can reuse old decorations.
They still carry the Christmas magic.
You can also get creative and make new ones. This can be fun bonding time with your family. Another good option is to swap decorations. After all, Christmas is all about sharing.
6. Make A Priority Menu
I get it. What is a Nigerian Christmas without a feast? The aroma of Jollof rice, big legs of chicken, and all the extras is half the celebration.
But four giant pots of jollof rice will drain your budget faster than harmattan dries your lips.
Instead, plan for just enough to satisfy your family and a few friends. And if the whole community decides to show up, there’s always water and biscuits for everyone. Keep it simple and joyful.
7. Surprise Your Loved Ones With Special Gifts
Here is a cheat code for Christmas gifting: Special doesn’t have to mean expensive. Look for a thoughtful yet useful gift like a beautifully sculpted mug or an affordable painting with personality.
Want to know a secret?
Pick something that speaks to the person you’re gifting. A well-picked item shows you care and makes the gift special. And no, a generic season’s greeting card doesn’t count.
8. Are You Ready For Next Year?
You probably don’t want to hear this, but this is the best time to plan for next year. Yes, Christmas is for enjoyment, but setting financial goals now means you can enjoy the season without worrying about next year.
With Jollof+, saving has never been easier. Automate your savings and earn 21.6% p.a. net interest without leaving the comfort of your couch. No stress.
Let’s be honest, a financial plan ensures your January is not empty even with a detty December.
The Bottom Line is
Christmas is all about spending quality time with loved ones. It is a season that should be filled with laughter, joy, and memories. It shouldn’t come with a lot of financial stress.
Make smart money moves this season. Follow these tips, enjoy the holiday without overspending, and step into January with a smile. Trust us, you will thank yourself later.
