Spend Wisely

The first step in spending wisely is budgeting wisely.  Download a PDF file here.

Next, reduce and reallocate your holiday spending habits.
Here are some of our suggestions - also see ideas provided by you:
  1. Draw names instead of giving to everyone.
  2. Let others help; tell them your intention to give less and ask them to not buy an expensive gift.
  3. Give family gifts instead of individual gifts.
  4. Give gifts only to children.
  5. Don't give children money to give you a gift.
  6. Design and make your own gifts.
  7. Set a spending limit with spouses and family.
  8. Don't buy a gift that will simply be returned.
  9. Bake something.
  10. Go caroling.
  11. Create a homemade gift certificate for a favor or service.
  12. Give to mission and benevolent projects in someone's honor.
  13. Give and wrap gifts in a way that cares for the environment.  Suggestions 1  Suggestions 2  Suggestions 3
  14. Give the gift of your time, talents and involvement (More presence, less presents!!!)
  15. Teach someone a skill you possess.
  16. Make cards, postcards or gift tags on your computer.
  17. Send electronic cards (often free).
  18. Write a story or poem, make a song or create art as a gift.
  19. Make a CD of special music.
  20. Write a letter of love and/or appreciation.
  21. Adopt a family in the community (names are available through churches and other local community agencies).
  22. Support church missions around the world. Here's how we do it.

More budgeting resources:

Alternatives and other perspectives to spending money...

    Buy-Nothing Year (WireTap, December 15, 2006) 
    Buy Nothing Christmas and alternative ideas - started by Canadian Mennonites
    Buy Nothing Day (Wikipedia)
    Advent Conspiracy website and video
    Forgotten Christmas website and video
    Spend Less, Worship More