Saving For Christmas

As a mum, I like to think of myself as quite organised when it comes to buying presents and getting everything ready for a special occasion. But I do struggle with one thing, saving. It appears that every weekend I am pulling out my credit card for something. Whether it is for my little girl's after school activities, new shoes, one of her friends birthdays and on top of that the usual bills. This Christmas however I have been fully determined to put aside a little money each week no matter what, so I don't feel the pinch after the big Christmas rush. Below I have included some rather helpful tips that have stopped me from shaking my bag for loose change at the supermarket.

1. Create A Shopping List

I do feel quite guilty about this first piece of advice as I know that many mums out there already do it religiously. My first piece of wisdom is to make a shopping list and a meal plan before you attempt to even enter a shop. As a working mum I am very much inclined after a hard day at work to run into a shop and start buying without any particular thought (except that my meals are healthy of course). For the last few months I have been creating a detailed meal plan and checking what is in my fridge and cupboard before I go out. This not only has freed up some cupboard space but has also made me think about what I need rather than what I want when I am in the store.

2. Stick To A Budget

With everything! I now keep a notebook with budgets set out for each month including the odd birthdays and everything else. Creating a set budget every month is essential when trying to save as you see the rewards quite quickly. I also get a kick out of reaching each goal set.

3. Resist The Urge To Splurge

I always had a little tray of coins resting on the unit in the hallway that was meant to help me save the odd bit. But constantly grabbing a few pounds as I walk out of the door has resulted in my savings tray looking a little worst for ware. To help me with this situation I have managed to find these great Terramundi Pots that help me to save as you literally have to break them open to get money out. This has helped me so much in the run up to Christmas and they look quite pretty too.

4. Look For Cheaper Alternatives

Since quite recently I have always been one to stick to the brands that I know as there is no way that the cheaper stuff could do the same job. I now must admit that I am a convert to trying products that are not only cheaper without that special packaging, but also work just as well. This has helped no end in my budgeting as well as I haven't had to cut back that much.

I hope that these little tips will help you save a bit more before the big Christmas shop!