Coupons for Good: 4 Ways to Decorate on a Budget This December

Coupons for Good: 4 Ways to Decorate on a Budget This December

Decorating for the holidays is a tradition many people look forward to all year long. The twinkling lights, brightly colored displays, and special pieces handed down through the generations are a signal that it’s time to reflect on the past year and spend time with the people you love most. However, holiday decorations can come with a hefty price tag. With so many other things to spend money on during the holidays, anything you can do to save money on decor helps. Here are four tips to help you get into the holiday spirit without breaking the bank.

Get Crafty

When you buy expensive holiday decorations, you’re partly paying for someone else’s creative labor. To keep costs down and have some fun, create your own festive touches at home. Give a plain, inexpensive ornament some sparkle with glitter and sequins from your local craft store such as Hobby Lobby. Pick up some construction paper at gift cards and have the kids create a one-of-a-kind wreath. Shopping at gift cards and other retailers you might not normally associate with the holidays is a great way to avoid seasonally inflated prices.

Make the Most of What You’ve Got

Before you run out and buy something new, take a look around and think about how you can re-purpose things you already have at home.  Having to buy more and more can quickly add up to a very hefty price tag! If you have a stash of buttons in case of a clothing repair, turn them into charming gift cards instead. Fill Mason jars with candles to light a snowy path to your door. You can even transform something as seemingly useless as an gift cards into an adorable smiling snowman.

Plan an Ornament Swap

You don’t have to buy something new. Now is the perfect time to gather friends and neighbors together for an ornament swap. It doesn’t have to be formal — just invite folks over for a potluck lunch and ask them to bring any ornaments they’d like to exchange. If hosting is one thing too many on your holiday prep list, suggest such a swap as an alternative to the traditional gift exchange at your office, school, or club.

Change Up Your Tree

For many, the Christmas tree is the cornerstone of holiday decor. However, trees also require a lot of time, money, and effort. If you’re willing to try something different, you can save a ton of money and start a new tradition with a fresh take on a tree.

Keep it simple by drawing a tree on a wall with a simple strand of lights. Give old wrapping paper new life by cutting it into shapes of leaves and branches to craft a colorful tree. (These are also great solutions if you have limited floor space.) For a show-stopping alternative, stack your book collection in a narrowing circular pattern to create a multidimensional book tree that will be the envy of the avid readers in your life.

These creative holiday decorating ideas do more than help you save money. They offer great ways to bring people together, start new traditions, and remind your friends and family of what the holiday season is really about.