Money Saving Academy

Christmas is not about the gifts, but gift giving is one of the joys. Families have several options when looking for cheap Christmas ideas. With most of the countries in the world in economic crisis, families are trying to save money.

Unfortunately the financial downturn happened on the brink of the biggest spending season of the year, leading families to look for cheap Christmas ideas. With most charities suffering, there is little Christmas help for low income families.

Most retailers make the bulk of their profits during the holiday shopping season. While some items are at rock bottom prices, some people cannot afford to purchase even the least expensive Christmas gifts. However this holiday season can still be filled with joy if you follow some frugal tips.

For gift giving:

Eliminate a long Christmas list by drawing names among family members instead of buying each individual family member a gift. Set a price limit on how much you will spend on the gifts. Remember it is not the price of a gift, but the goodwill behind it and the joy on the person’s face when they receive it.

Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, sends shoppers to stores and malls looking for rock bottom prices on cheap Christmas gifts. However, many of these sales will continue throughout the season. With the recession looming, many retailers may continue to mark down prices on cheap Christmas gifts as December 25 nears. Don’t be a stickler about getting your shopping done early. You may find some great deals on Christmas inexpensive gifts just before Christmas Eve.

Many say homemade gifts are from the heart. Bake cookies, make candy or craft a family heirloom. You can put homemade Christmas gifts in a jar and tie a chap ribbon around it for an extra nice touch. Many websites offer free Christmas crafts that will also give you some ideas as to how to have a frugal Christmas. Jewelry making is popular right now and you can get cheap supplies at a discount hobby store. Also look for

You can also find cheap Christmas wrapping paper. The local $1 stores across the country have wrapping, bows, gift tags and ribbons. You can make any Christmas inexpensive gift pretty with cheap wrapping paper.

If you simply cannot afford a gift, why not consider a free coupon? These “gifts from the heart” can be redeemable for massages, home cooked meals or simply a few minutes of quiet time away from the children. Create professional looking coupons on your computer or let the kids create their own with some construction paper, crayons and markers. These coupons are perfect for busy moms who need a little TLC!

Who says you have to celebrate Christmas on December 25?

After the holiday hoopla has died down, retailers drastically reduce their prices and you can find many inexpensive Christmas gifts. Why not wait until after Christmas to give gifts. You will be able to buy nicer gifts with less money. You will also find all Christmas decorations at reduced prices, sometimes up to 70 percent off!

Decorating for the holidays

Many families have heirlooms that adorn the home and trees but many have to purchase new decorations and a new Christmas tree. If you need a Christmas tree, you can cut your own at a local tree farm. This may not be much cheaper, but it is a fun family activity. If you want to save money, consider a smaller Christmas tree. A four foot tree can be just as beautiful as an eight foot tree that goes to the ceiling.

For decorations, why not start a new family tradition by making your own. Look online for free Christmas craft ideas. Have the kids sign and date the backs of the decorations so you can remember when they made the decorations.

Make a budget and stick with it!

It is never too late to plan how much you want to spend for the holidays. Include everything in your budget—gifts, wrapping paper, Christmas cards, postage and decorations. Don’t be lured by special sales or expensive pretty wrapping paper. If you stick to your budget, you won’t have an after-Christmas financial hangover.

Finally, remember that even a cheap Christmas can be a memorable Christmas. The holidays are not about gifts and fancy trees. This time of the year is when people remember others. Give Christmas help for low income families. Enjoy the holidays by reaching to others and not focusing on gift giving.