Invest a Little

Sometimes, it can make sense to spend a little bit more on an initial holiday purchase, knowing that it will last multiple years and save you money in the long run.

This could be a matter of quality ... when you buy Dollar store decorations, sometimes you get what you pay for, and it will fall apart by the end of the season. It may be worth your while to spend a dollar or two more for garland that will last you several seasons.

Purchasing an artificial Christmas tree will probably start saving you money over a real tree by the second or third year to buy it, depending on the cost of the artificial tree you purchase.  Again, don't completely cheap out here ... saving $25 on a  tree that you then have to replace in 3 years, instead of 8 to 10 years, won't turn out to be that much of a savings after all!

It can also be a matter of choosing something disposable.  Reusable Advent calendars that either come with no requirement to be filled each year, or which allow you to choose yourself what goes into them, can also be a good long term savings.

Fill your own Calendar at Lowes $25

Calendar $19 at Real Canadian Superstore

Other items for consideration:
- Cloth Christmas napkins
- A tablecloth in the largest size you are likely to need, in a neutral solid colour  colour (red, white, green, burgundy) rather than a pattern that will date.  You can  fold it over in years you have a smaller gathering to make it fit a smaller table size.  Pick a colour you will use for other special occasions.
- Make sure tree lights and outdoor lights are energy-efficient LEDs.
- Consider investing in silk poinsettia arrangements
- Choose Christmas stockings you expect your children to use until adulthood (think both quality and what they look like), so you don't have the expense of replacing them routinely.


Any suggestions of your own?  Share them in the comments!