I was talking with my siblings yesterday and we were comparing modern price tags and marketing with the Christmas season of our youth. We were all born in the 1970s and grew up in the 1980s and we were reminiscing how times have changed. We concluded in our memory, this season used be much simpler and far less stressful.
There are those who look forward to this time of year to decorate their homes top to bottom. There are those that cherish the religious meaning of the holiday. There are those who look forward to the family gatherings, and there are those who love the warmth of the season for its twinkle lights and traditions. We all look at the holiday season differently. As I get older, I find I’m one of those in the latter category and prefer to keep things as simple as possible in order to maximize the joy.
Commercials and ads are marketing to us all year we need to do this or buy that, but it only leads to stress and a big credit card bill in January. Below are a few suggestions for budget friendly and minimalist ways to remove the pressure and still have the merry holiday.
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Add a String of Battery Operated Twinkle Lights Anywhere
How lucky are we that battery operated twinkle light strands exist in this world. I have a few set I string up here and there and they add the perfect amount of seasonal ambiance, they add that little touch of magic.
Forage for Greenery and Display in Existing Vessels
No doubt you have a few vases and vessels, add evergreen clippings from your yard or free trimmings from the tree lot.
Swap a Piece of Art for a Store Bought Wreath
Trader Joe’s and grocery stores sell budget friendly evergreen wreaths. I like to buy two or three and just hang them on the walls around my house for the scent. Come January, the wreath comes down and the art goes back up.
Gather Shiny Ornaments in Bowls
It’s easy and always festive to add a few bowls of ornaments to coffee and end tables, the simplest way to add color and bling.
Opt for a Mini Tree Instead
Instead of a tall expensive tree from a lot or farm, consider a smaller fresh one instead, one that can be moved in a pot outside in the new year.
Gift a Traditional Recipe to Friends and Family
Tiny nibbles of homemade goodies are a sweet and simple gift to share, especially if it’s a recipe you’re famous for.
Skip the Big Party
Opt out of the stress of hosting a attending a large party, and gather a group of six to ten peeps, you’ll have more time to connect one one on one. A few festive cocktails with besties is a more intimate experience and can be done at home or at a local restaurant.
cranberry pomegranate cocktails
Reduce and Reuse Holiday Decor
I reuse the same stockings (this image is from 2015) and display the same white ceramic holiday decor around the house every year. Every year I whittle my collection down to just the favorites and I’ve discovered I’m so much happier storing so much less.
Take Advantage of Free Printables
Save money by printing free gift tags and cards available online, there are plenty of cute ones available! I’m sharing a new series of vintage inspired gift tags later this week. 🙂
Gift an Experience Instead of a Thing
Aren’t amazing memories so much better than stuff? That’s what I believe. Gift a special outing or adventure instead of a store bought something. Here’s a list of experiences that make great gifts to inspire.
In what ways have you minimized your holiday expenses and obligations to bring yourself more peace and joy this season?