1. Start with a budget 💸
It sounds simple, but having a dedicated Christmas budget prevents most problems. Decide before you start shopping how much you want to spend on gifts, food, decorations, and outings. Treat that amount as a firm limit.
Tip: Split your budget into clear categories. For example, set aside a specific amount for gifts, food, and activities. This makes it concrete and easy to track.
You can also agree on a budget with the people you celebrate Christmas with. By deciding on a shared spending limit beforehand, you prevent anyone from overspending. A simple rule works well — for example, a maximum of €20 per person.
2. Choose Christmas gifts that reflect your relationship 🎁
A gift works best when it suits the person receiving it.
- Create a small booklet filled with stories or shared memories.
- Choose something that aligns with a hobby or passion — such as a plant for someone who loves greenery, or new brushes for someone who enjoys painting.
- A framed photo that says something about your bond is always a thoughtful option.
A meaningful gift chosen with care is often more valuable than an expensive one.
3. Give time instead of things ⏰
Time may be the most underrated Christmas gift, even though people often appreciate it the most. Be creative. Write a card and include a small, symbolic item that complements the experience you're offering.
- Give a “coffee date” gift with a mug or coffee beans and a handwritten note.
- Make a DIY voucher for a film night, a babysitting afternoon, or a home-cooked dinner.
- Offer help with something practical the recipient hasn’t gotten around to doing.
By giving time, you're not just offering something tangible — you're creating a future memory together.
4. Small homemade Christmas gifts 🧶
Many people think homemade gifts feel too simple, but in reality, recipients often love them. It shows you took the time to make something personal.
- A jar of homemade biscuits or chocolate truffles
- DIY candles or reed diffusers
- A printed “film-night set”: popcorn, chocolate, and a handwritten film tip
Affordable, personal, and thoughtful.
5. Shop second-hand 🛍️
Second-hand gifts don’t have to feel used or cheap. Sometimes you find something truly unique: a beautiful book, a puzzle, a retro game, or an item you can no longer buy new. It’s about choosing something that suits the person, not the price tag.
6. Plan your Christmas groceries 🛒
For many households, Christmas dinner ends up being the biggest cost in December. A bit of planning helps a lot.
- Buy non-perishable items in advance when they’re on offer.
- Compare supermarket prices.
- Look for recipes that don’t require expensive ingredients.
A clear shopping list helps. What’s not on the list doesn’t go in your basket.
A clear shopping list helps. What’s not on the list doesn’t go in your basket.
7. Let Grassfeld help with your Christmas budget 🎄
December is always an expensive month, no matter how careful you are. But by setting a budget and tracking your spending, Christmas remains manageable. Grassfeld makes this easier. In the app, you can set budgets per category, so you always see how much room you still have for gifts, decorations, and food.
Your expenses are automatically categorised, giving you instant insight. You can also create a savings goal for the holidays. That way, you start the new year without financial stress — and with peace of mind instead.
Download Grassfeld app
Download the free Grassfeld app in your app store, keep control of your budget, and turn smart Christmas shopping into a new tradition.
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