Holiday budgeting

purplehaze11

DH and I have an eternal debate about gifts. We live a fair distance from his family, and have never traveled to see them over the holidays since we have moved here, so he likes to buy nice gifts in compensation, they also spend a fair bit on us, and we are the only ones with a child. So, in saying that, our total Christmas budget this year is $1400- it includes all gifts, food, etc... I actually have a separate Christmas savings account, and always throw in $100 a month minimum, with extra in double pay months. Our goal is to get one year ahead in that account, which is a work in progress. I am hoping to come in under that number, with a least thoughtful diy for my family.

mrsseguin

I have always said I'm going to start shopping early and be done Christmas shopping before December even gets here.  I've never done it until this year.  I started 2 months ago.  I buy 1-2 christmas gifts every paycheck.  I'm glad I've finally started this and I think it'll make a huge difference this year.  We aren't planning on spending more money...we usually spend less than $1500 for everyone.