I'm on a very tight budget so I save every month with the park vouchers. That way I know I've got enough put by for my closest family. I would never get into debt and spend what I hadn't saved
I used to, when I was a single mum. January was always a nightmare for obvious reasons, but that was a long time ago and I’m older and wiser. We only have a tiny family and presents now are a token so there’s no need to overspend.
I have always budgeted for it, and stuck to it. But we have never gone in for either OTT competitive gift giving or giving the children everything they asked for.
We did have one year when money was very tight and like Blubelle presents were home made or came from charity shops. DC remember it as one of their best Christmases ever!
No, I have had to live within my means for a long time. I cannot afford to repay debts so am careful not to go too mad. I am lucky in that I have a partner to share some costs but we are both starting to feel the pinch of living on a limited income/our occupational pensions. We had a lovely Christmas, all the same.
I spent 20 on the lot one time. That included my daughters one present, which was cheaper because it was a display watch, and didn't have a box. Enough for a roast dinner, and a box of mince pies. The sky didn't fall in, and she wasn't damaged for life.
We have never spent money we don’t have, and certainly not on Christmas. We always set a budget - and then DH always blows it, but only because we can afford it and he loves Christmas.
Lots of people seeking debt management after Christmas. I'm guessing, but could be wrong, that folk our age do not overspend and get into trouble. There again, could be wrong. We are lucky, we have a small family and we've cut down and out on present giving. Our DD hosted Christmas day and my contribution was a home made Christmas cake and dinner Boxing Day. Apart from spending money on the GC we didn't spend too much and we would personally never borrow money for Christmas