Joanna Marie O. Santos
September 15, 2023

The holiday season is just around the corner in the Philippines. As moms, one of our joys during this lovely season is keeping everything organized and well-budgeted but let's face it, it’s also a bit of financial stress. Between gifts, feasts, and festive decorations, it's easy to get carried away. But worry not! In this budgeting guide tailor-made for moms like you, we'll dive into some practical tips and strategies to keep your holiday celebrations merry and bright without breaking the bank. 

_{(Photo taken by Bullit Marquez/AP)}

1. Set Clear Spending Limits

The first and most crucial step in managing your holiday budget is to set clear spending limits. Take a moment to assess your financial situation and determine how much you can comfortably spend without straining your family's finances. Once you've established your budget, break it down into categories, such as gifts, decorations, food, and entertainment.

By setting spending limits, you'll avoid impulse buying and stay on track. Remember, the holiday season should be about enjoying quality time with loved ones, not about maxing out your credit card.

2. Use Digital Apps

Utilizing Google Sheets and Google Calendar can be quite useful in managing your gift list, ingredient list, schedules, etc. For instance, mothers can efficiently use these tools by creating a new Google Sheets document dedicated to their holiday budget. They can categorize their holiday expenses, such as gifts, decorations, food, and entertainment, and even include subcategories to be more specific. Furthermore, Google Calendar can be utilized to schedule holiday-related events and deadlines, such as gift shopping, meal preparation, decorating, and family gatherings. To ensure a holistic approach to your holiday preparation, set reminders for these events and deadlines to stay organized and on track.

3. Join Online Communities to Get Tips from Other Moms 

Who else knows better how to manage a holiday budget than your fellow moms? You can find budget hacks and best practices by joining online communities.

On Facebook, two of the best groups to source ideas are Home Buddies and KasKasan Buddies. Home Buddies is a vibrant Facebook group where moms and homemakers in the Philippines come together to share insights on various aspects of homemaking, including holiday budgeting. KasKasan Buddies is another excellent Facebook group that focuses on practical money-saving tips using credit cards, budgeting, and frugal living in the Philippines. Members of these groups share their experiences and best finds that you can add to your own holiday list. Online communities are also a good platform to stay informed about the latest discounts and promotions of holiday essentials.

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4. Craft a Thoughtful Gift and Grocery List

Gift-giving is a beautiful tradition, but it can quickly become a financial burden if you're not careful. Instead of trying to buy presents for everyone you know, focus on your immediate family and close friends. Create a list of people you want to buy gifts for and allocate a specific budget for each person. It's not about how much you spend; it's about the thought and love you put into your gifts.

Filipino holiday feasts are legendary, but they can also be expensive. Create a detailed grocery list that includes all the ingredients you'll need for your holiday dishes. Plan your meals in advance, avoid impulse purchases, and look for sales and discounts. Cooking and baking with your family can be a delightful and cost-effective way to bond during the holidays.

5. Be early and get better deals

Don't wait until the last minute to do your holiday shopping. Retailers often offer discounts and promotions during the pre-holiday season. Take advantage of these opportunities by starting your shopping early. For example, you can buy non-perishable food for Christmas as early as November.

Make a list of the gifts you need to buy and set a budget for each. Keep an eye out for special deals, and compare prices to get the best value for your money.

6. Consider Online Shopping for Better Discounts

In the digital age, online shopping has become a game-changer for budget-conscious moms. Many online stores offer better deals such as the November 11 and December 12 mega discount promo of popular eCommerce platforms, Shopee and Lazada. Plus, you can easily compare prices and read product reviews to make informed decisions. Just remember to factor in shipping costs and delivery times when planning your online purchases.

Saving Pesos During The Holiday Season

Moms, it's time to take charge of your holiday budget and make this season a time of joy, not financial worry. Set your spending limits, utilize digital apps, join online communities, craft thoughtful gift and grocery lists, shop early, and consider online shopping for better deals. With a little planning and some budgeting magic, you can create a holiday season that your family will cherish for years to come. 

Don’t forget that the holiday season is all about family, love, and creating lasting memories. While it's easy to get swept up in the excitement, remember that the true spirit of the holidays lies in the moments you share with your loved ones. By following this budgeting guide, you can ensure that your celebrations are filled with warmth and happiness, without the stress of overspending.

Save this budgeting guide and share it with your fellow moms or loved ones!