Christmas Decor that doesn’t break the bank

Savvy Cents Christmas Decor

Latrice Caldwell, my go-to decorator and childhood friend loves Christmas! Every year I look forward to seeing her Christmas themes and decor. This year I asked her to give us her best tips for decorating on a budget! I hope you enjoy, let us know how you decorate on a budget!

A 3-step Buyer’s Guide to shopping on a budget

Often times, many are overwhelmed by the massive selection of Christmas decor, prices or crave to step out the “norm” to create something different but have no idea where to begin. Well, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming, difficult or cost you an arm and a leg if you shop smart.

Step One: Choose a Color Palette/Theme

As simple as this step may seem, it is really the most important step of them all. You may find this step the hardest as there are so many choices. Don’t stress!! Choosing a Color/Theme will help you sort through the Christmas isles with confidence. How? Example: For instance, after deciding your color palette will be light blue, dusty pink, white and silver, now these will be the only color sections you need to browse. Not only saving you time but also keeping anxiety levels low while navigating through the land of, “Everything is so pretty and I want it ALL”.

Find inspiration from an ornament, wrapping paper, piece of fabric, household decor, your favorite blouse, etc or Google search. Remember, Christmas isn’t one color palette and can be whatever “you” want it to be. (It’s your house, money and time)

Step Two: Avoid paying full price for ANYTHING!!!

Building on what you already have is an easy way to remain cost-effective. There’s no need to run out and buy all new items each year! (Yes!! there are people who actually throw the whole, whole tree away ornaments and all…) Instead, purchase plastic bins at your local big box store for under $10 to store and reuse items. Shop after Christmas Sales at your local Dollar Stores, The Goodwill, Hobby Lobby and Walmart. These stores tend to price items anywhere from 75%-90% off after Christmas. Yard Sales and Estate sales are also a great place to find Christmas decor. Look for vintage bulbs, wreaths, lights, cookie jars, trains, and even colored trees. You will often find the coolest and most unique pieces for pennies on the dollar.

Be sure to look for various shapes, sizes, texture and materials. Remember, to stay within your color palette/theme.

If you don’t have time to wait until after the season Hobby Lobby and Michael’s are great options.  Hobby Lobby begins to put out it’s Christmas inventory in August and their store-wide 50% off sale rotates weekly from department to department. Before you visit call or check online to see when the Christmas department will be included in the sale. In addition, Hobby Lobby offers a 40% online coupon which can be used on any regular priced item. Simply visit their website, pull up the coupon and show it to the cashier. Boom 40% off that expensive item you love but otherwise know it isn’t in the budget. Michael’s coupons are also a great option. Use them to discount regular priced items or sometimes even receive a percentage off the total sale. Take advantage of sales and damaged items as well. Both these stores will sell packs missing or with broken pieces at huge discounts. Don’t forget tree stand and hooks!!

If you own a sewing machine but barely use it because you don’t know how to operate it very well. Christmas stockings, table runners and tree skirts are all beginners level projects that require no experience or skill other than the ability to thread a machine. (Seriously, their that simple) Check your local fabric store/section for “EASY” patterns or draw your own using old wrapping paper that will help guide you. Creating pieces is not only cost effective, it allows you the opportunity to customize colors and shapes to your liking.

Step Three: Getting Organized 

Now that you’ve picked a Color/Theme and Shopped/Added to your collection it’s time to decorate. “So let the decking of the Hall’s begin !!!” Whether your tree is Real or Artificial any tree any size can light up the room and fill guest with awh and merriment. The keys to this step is being organized and patient. A well organized workspace will not only reduce time it also reduces clutter and mess! 

RELATED: 5-STEP DESIGNER’S GUIDE TO ACHIEVING THE PERFECT CHRISTMAS TREE