Life and Religion

With so little money and so many gifts to buy, people to feed and a Christmas tree to put up, what are you to do when the economy is in the tank?

Shop smart.

According to the National Retail Federation, consumers are expected to spend about $832 on holiday shopping. That’s 45 percent of people who plan to spend less than last year, according to a Roper Survey.

But just because your wallet is low, doesn’t mean you can’t find deals on the cheap, say financial experts.

Clarky Davis, also known as “The Debt Diva,” says shoppers have less buying power than they did last year. That’s why she suggests the following:

• Make a plan: Start early with what you need to buy as far as decorations, gifts, food, postage and travel.

“Start now and purchase things with cash,” Davis, the author of “Debt Diva’s Financial Guide,” said. “That way you’re not just going on a one-weekend shopping spree and putting everything on your credit card.”

• Budget accordingly and stick to it:

“Really be conscious (of what you’re buying),” Davis says. “Look at the list that you made and if something is not on your list, put it back.”

Furthermore, if you can’t purchase a gift for everyone, do the Secret Santa bit, that way everyone gets a gift, Davis adds.

• Recycle: Reuse pieces for decorations in order to help save money. For instance, Erinn Valencich, a lifestyle expert who frequents stores like TJ Maxx and Marshalls, suggests using real fruit, which can be eaten later or nature items from outdoors in the backyard for centerpieces. She also recommends using the same color palettes from previous years to decorate the home and recycle Christmas cards for use as gift tags.

• Avoid Black Saturday: Stay away from the busy shopping day, unless it’s a family tradition and you must go.

“If you do go, plan ahead so you know what you’re going to purchase,” Davis said. “Do your research online. It’s really important that you prepare yourself.”

Davis suggests being well rested, eating a good balanced breakfast and bring water to the shopping destination.

“Just know that you can get great deals and not have to deal with the crowds on Black Friday,” Davis said. “Or stay away from malls and go to an off retailer.”

• Be efficient: If the money’s not there, have a themed party like wine and cheese or chocolate and champagne, or even a potluck, Valencich said.

“That way you don’t have to offer everything,” she added. “You can still have a wonderful party.”

Davis says people are appreciative when you open your home for the holidays.

“People are looking for creative things to do things with one another,” she said. “Parties really let people get out of the house and enjoy themselves.”

Additionally, Valencich says buy an artificial tree. That way you can use it yearly and it’s easier to clean up afterwards.

“I’m actually a really big fan of artificial trees as long as they look better,” Valencich said. “An artificial colored tree actually makes your ornaments stand out more. The same goes for a wreath.”

• Avoid gift cards: Valencich and Davis agree that gift cards are a last minute gift with no thought.

“If you wait and shop you’ll be tempted to buy gift cards,” Davis said. “If you’re going to give cards really try to limit the amount and give them with some home baked cookies or a loaf of bread.”

Davis says if you plan ahead you can purchase a nice gift for the same amount as a gift card.

For more information visit Davis’ site at:
www.careonecredit.com/community/aboutdebtdiva

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