As I was thinking about this series I thought- is it too early for posts about Christmas?

I decided it is not. If you are like my mother you have been Christmas shopping since December 26th of last year so this series is actually really late. If you are more like me you are just realizing that we are half way through October and you are just starting to think about your Christmas list.

As a side note, I know everyone has different ideas/traditions around holiday gift giving. This is something THE HUSBAND and I had to work through early in our marriage. (I love to give gifts, he is more on the anti-commercialization of Christmas side.  We have come to appreciate each others ideas and we now have a good compromise.) I am not trying to talk anyone into change I just wanted to offer some tips to help you spend whatever amount of money you chose to spend on gifts the best way you can!

DAY 1- Budget

It is true, the first key to an affordable Christmas is to set a budget. Do not think of all the people you would like to get gifts for or what all those gifts would be.Think of your budget.

What have you saved for Christmas gift giving? What can you comfortably afford for Christmas gift giving? Decide on a budget first.

You may now start making a list of all the people you want to buy for. You can even write gift ideas beside their names. (This is one of my favorite parts. I love to brainstorm gift ideas for my loved ones.)

Assign a dollar amount per gift for each person on your list. Add those number up- if they are more than your budget you will have to cut numbers or people.

I know this sounds a bit scroogeish but setting a budget early on and committing to it will help you joyfully and freely spend whatever money you have allotted for each gift.  You will not have to stress in the store about your budget and how you are doing, you will know. Christmas shopping will be more enjoyable.

So set your budgets and get ready for Day 2. There are a lot of frugal ideas and practical tips coming your way, including a guest post for one of my favorite guest posters, Honey.

What about you? What is your best frugal tip for the Holidays? I am always looking for good ideas so please share!