Use Thrift and Dollar Stores for Cheap Christmas Decorations - and Use the Internet for Coupons

by Jamie Lee
(Houston, TX)

Saving money during the holiday season is one of the toughest times of year to tighten those pockets.

With family dinners, presents, decorations, and everything else, how does one keep their budget in line?

First thing to do is get your scissors out and start cutting coupons. In addition to weekly newspaper ads, many local companies send out monthly coupons as well. There are also a ton of websites devoted to helping you save money.

It's also important to go online to individual store's websites and see when they offer free shipping or have one day sales.

Thrift stores and consignment shops are also great places to look for decorations and presents, you never know what you are going to find.

You can find great decorations at local dollar stores, and also make your own decorations by buying simple and cheap items from a craft store. Sometimes with decorating, less is more. A simple strand of lights and some garland can add an instant holiday flair to your home.

A great way to throw an inexpensive holiday party is first to have it be a potluck style, where everyone is required to bring a dish.

Instead of booking a dj, or trying to buy that perfect CD, find an internet radio station that just features holiday music.

Instead of trying to stock a full liquor bar, opt for one or two specialty holiday drinks, like an eggnog martini, so you spend less money on ingredients.

Also, make use of social networking sites that will allow you to send invitations for free and be able to post the party pics after!

HOME to Cheap Living