Surviving Christmas

Christmas, a time for love, peace, festive spirit and a time for GIVING. Christmas is an expensive time of year especially if you have Children. It is a time where most people are at there weakest when it comes to money. " lets put it on the card", " we'll worry about it in the New Year". You will think of every excuse under the sun to convince yourself or your partner to spend the money you don't have or can't afford.

So what can I do?

Think ahead

You will enjoy Christmas 10 times more if you make a budget of what you can afford to spend. List all presents and costs, shop around and try and shop as close to Christmas Eve as possible, you will be amazed at the reductions made at this time especially on perishable goods (we don't recommend buying your turkey at the last minute, you could find it cheaper but don't blame us if you can't find one). You can also try the yellow papers, there are many bargains to be found and most items are in new condition.

Do not be tempted taking credit or loans

Thousands of credit agreements are signed in the run up to Christmas, try and avoid it. If you do decide to take credit make sure you shop around for the best A.P.R and check the small print, above all make sure you only deal with a high street lender, and avoid doorstep lenders offering weekly repayments.

Do not be tempted to use priority money

Please don't use mortgage, rent, electricity etc. to fund Xmas, you will regret it.