Ideas for holiday décor when you’re on a tight budget.

If the yule season brings out your desire to deck the halls, check out these ideas for having yourself a merry little Christmas without busting your budget.

Get crafty

For young and old alike, crafting holiday decorations is fun and provides an activity everyone can do together. From paper garlands and origami stars to oversize snowflakes and cornucopia ornaments, there’s something to match your style whether it’s rustic or chic. Get inspired with this collection of paper decorations from House Beautiful.

Shop thrifty

Thrift stores can be a treasure trove of previously-loved holiday décor. As you peruse second-hand items, keep an eye out for decorations that might be disassembled and styled into something new.

Dollar stores are another source for budget-friendly Christmas décor, as well as crafting supplies.

Downsize and focus on what’s meaningful

Downsizing holiday décor gives you an opportunity to focus your effort on key focal points for maximum wow. Perhaps this is the year to skip the poinsettias and give the tree all the attention. Maybe you choose a smaller tree. Decide on what’s most meaningful, focus on that, and forego the rest.

Technically, baking isn’t décor unless you use cookies for ornaments. However, it’s worth mentioning that another way to downsize holiday expenses is to bake less. If a typical holiday means making six different kinds of cookies, cut costs by making just two or three favorites.

Turn to nature’s treasures

Foraged cedar boughs, pinecones, red dogwood stems and holly are just some of nature’s treasures that make lovely—and free—holiday decorations. If you forage beyond your own yard, get permission before gathering goodies on property owned by others.

The produce department at the grocery story is a source for holiday décor that’s also edible. For example, a bowl of crimson pomegranates is beautiful to behold and tasty to eat. A garland of orange and apple slices along with fresh cranberries creates a rustic look and provides a holiday feast for the birds.

Find ways to do things differently

Tradition can be honored in new ways. For example:

• Instead of a floral centerpiece, fill a platter or bowl with ornaments.
• Skip a single-purpose tree skirt by wrapping the base of the tree with a blanket.
• Bypass commercial air fresheners and fragrance the air with spiced cider or mulled wine warmed on the stove.

Before purchasing new items, pause and consider items you have on hand that could be repurposed for holiday décor.

Swap with friends

One reason some folks spend too much at the holidays is because they like to add to their collection of decorations. A free way to update holiday accessories is holding a décor swap. Check out these guidelines for hosting a décor swap from Or So She Says.

Plan for next year

A time-tested way to manage holiday expenses is by setting up a Christmas savings account. Automatic paycheck deductions make it easy to save. Plus, higher interest rates than regular savings accounts help you earn more.

 

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