Six Ways to Prepare for the Holiday Season 

Saving for the Holidays

The holidays are just around the corner and searching for a great deal for that special someone can get expensive. Thoughtful and memorable gifts do not have to break the bank.

Allegecy says that the holidays do not have to cost an arm and a leg to make the day special. Going above and beyond with a homemade gift, treat, or even assisting with a task can mean more.

Be creative with the funds you set aside for the holidays. Instead of buying something new this year, wait until it goes on sale at the end of the season. Search for deals on Black Friday or Cyber Monday to ensure you are getting the best deal on the items you’re eyeing.

Another great tip for shopping online is adding an item to your cart and waiting until the next day to purchase. Typically, companies will email you a coupon reminding you to purchase that item before it sells out. This is a helpful way to reduce big-ticket item costs for minimal effort.

If you host a big dinner, consider changing the event to a potluck where everyone can provide a homemade dish for the party. Fronting all that money on one meal can be a hassle and, when paired with holiday shopping, can be costly. Consider small plates or finger foods so people can still fill up on snacks without having a big, expensive meal.

Six Ways to Prepare for the Holiday Season

1. Set a Budget

Be realistic about how much you are willing to spend on each individual and stay within that number when shopping.

2. Look for Sales 

Search for sales about the items on your list. Do not forget to participate in Black Friday or Cyber Monday to take advantage of huge savings. Once you have your list, compare your items to those on sale while making sure they fit your spending parameters.

3. Repurpose

Are there decorations you can use from last year that are still displaying your holiday spirit? Maybe you have decorations you bought that you have yet to use! Instead of going out and buying something new, wait until the end of the year and see if that item is on sale for next year’s celebrations.

4. Draw Names

If you have a large family, consider drawing names instead of buying gifts for everyone. This saves money, and you can get a larger item tailored to the individual instead of buying for everyone.

5. Be Crafty

Consider making gifts instead of buying them. A homemade wreath can mean more in the long run than a scarf. Baked goods are always a welcome treat; you can make a large batch to check multiple people off your list.

6. Use Your Credit Card! 

Remember this holiday season to use your FFCCU Most Rewards credit card to earn 3,000* extra rewards points while shopping before December 31st! Take advantage of your holiday shopping today and earn bonus rewards points for merchandise, bill credit, or charity today!

Celebrate The Holidays and Save Cash! 

The holidays can be as big or as small as you make them. People will not remember the food served or the gift given. The point of the holidays is to be around friends and family and to make memories.

* Available for Most Rewards VISA Credit Card holders with cards activated on or before 7.15.2022. Cardholders will receive 3,000 bonus rewards points for making 10 purchases between 10/15 – 12/31/2022. Purchases must be posted by 12/31/22 to be eligible. Balance transfers do not qualify as a rewards points transaction.