subject: Christmas Is On Its Way - Are You Ready? [print this page] When you're sat on a beach, sipping cocktails and devouring your new favourite book in the middle of August, Christmas can seem light years away. Generally a time of the year that most people enjoy, it's not something a lot people think about until the beginning of October at the very earliest.
But as soon as September comes around, there'll be little over 100 days left to Christmas Day itself - or more worryingly, only 3 monthly pay days. When you realise that Christmas is in fact relatively close and you begin to think just how expensive it can be, it's commonplace to start thinking you need to begin saving for Christmas now, but not actually do anything about it.
If you want to have a great Christmas and one that is free of any financial burden, you really need to start preparing for Christmas immediately. We're not talking about getting your decorations down from the attic of writing your Christmas cards, but simply preparing and planning for the festive time of the year.
One of the best things that you can do starting in August is to begin putting money aside to cover every Christmas expense, as the earlier you start saving, the less you have to take out off your monthly wages for the next 3 months.
The important part to note here is 'every Christmas expense'. Presents are the most obvious expense that you're going to encounter, but it's also worthwhile taking into consideration all food and drink, any new clothes for the festive season and any additional items, such as decorations or cards.
How much you put aside really does depend on your individual circumstances and so it's worthwhile sitting down with a pen and paper and working out how much money you're going to need, adding an additional 10 percent on top for unexpected expenses.
Once you've worked out this figure and you don't believe you can save all of it or in fact any sum near to it in time for Christmas, you need to start looking at ways that you can save money in other areas which would allow you to put extra funds aside for Christmas.
For example, you should start by looking at your monthly outgoings and trying to cut your bills back by as much as possible. Compare broadband and utility bills to see if you're getting the best deal and contact your mobile phone carrier to find out if you're using all of your inclusive texts and minutes, as if you're not, you may be able to move down to the next tier.
From here, how and where you save money is down to you, as everyone's regular outgoings are different. Just remember that generally speaking, at least some money can be saved in all aspects of your finances and as long as you make the effort now, by the time Christmas comes, you should have a sufficient amount of money put aside to be able to see you through the period with relative financial ease.
by: Cathy Butler
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