Everybody’s complaining about not having enough money or the economy being slow so they’re not that much into spending too much. However, Christmas is the time for giving and everyone wants to get someone close to them something special. Here are some tips on getting something good without having to break the bank:
- Keep an eye on sales
It may seem obvious, but store circulars are a great source for holiday bargains.
The holiday spending frenzy really begins on Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving. Yes, even in Guyana! In recent years, retailers have also raked in sales on Cyber Monday. This is the Monday following Thanksgiving, when millions of people return to work and use lunch hours (and mornings and afternoons) to shop online. The sales just continue until even after the Christmas holiday.
- Surf for savings
It’s no wonder that people are shopping online — no crowds, deals found at a click, free shipping. But it’s not just about buying. The Internet allows you to comparison shop without having to visit the mall, a great way to save time as you stretch the budget. There are places in Guyana that can help you get what you need online and ship them in as well, at a cost of course but it ends up being much cheaper than buying directly from some local retailers.
- Get to know store policies
It pays to shop at stores that match competitors’ advertised prices and offer price adjustments.
Be sure to learn about a store’s return policy, in case you find a better deal that you want to take advantage of elsewhere.
- Give a theme gift
Gift baskets and boxes are fun for recipients and can be frugal for givers. With the many different gift-basket themes nowadays we suggest finding a theme or creating a gift basket yourself that matches the special someone who needs the perfect gift.
- Buy in bulk
Buying in bulk can often net big savings. Buying more than one of something isn’t cheap if the thought behind it is genuine.
- Make the thought count
In many cases, simply putting extra thought into your shopping can result in gifts that are cheaper and more personal.
For example, Sarah likes cosmetics. So her friends have given her beauty kits, lipstick, and even a set of eye shadow shades.
- Get the family to go frugal
Sometimes, people overspend during the holidays because it’s a long-standing tradition in the family. Don’t be afraid to break the cycle, not everybody has that kind of money nowadays.
