The holidays should bring joy, not financial anxiety. Yet the average person spends nearly $1,000 during the season, often on credit cards that take months to pay off. The pressure to spend isn’t about generosity. It’s about expectation, comparison, and marketing messages that equate money with magic. At ES Curated, we believe in celebrating intentionally, in a way that aligns with your values and your budget. Here’s how.
Set a Real Holiday Budget
Before buying anything, determine what you can actually afford without using credit or touching emergency savings. Break it down: gifts, food, decorations, travel, miscellaneous. A simple framework is 50% for gifts, 30% for experiences and food, 20% for everything else. Write it down and look at it before every purchase. Better yet, use cash envelopes or a separate account. When the money’s gone, you’re done spending.
Give Thoughtful Gifts, Not Expensive Ones
Research shows gift givers overestimate how much recipients care about price and underestimate how much they value thoughtfulness. A $15 personalized gift beats a $75 generic one every time. Create a cozy night kit with hot cocoa and fuzzy socks. Make homemade treats in a beautiful jar with the recipe. Put together a spa basket with affordable essentials. Frame a meaningful photo. Write a heartfelt letter. Make a playlist with notes about why you chose each song. The through line is personalization, something you can’t buy at any price.
Set Expectations Early
Most people are secretly relieved when someone suggests scaling back on gifts. Be that person. Suggest Secret Santa for friend groups, drawing names for extended family, or only exchanging gifts for children. Frame it positively: “I’ve been thinking about how to make the holidays less stressful and more meaningful for everyone.” Real loved ones care about your wellbeing more than receiving presents.
Prioritize Free Experiences
The most memorable moments often cost nothing. Drive around to see holiday lights. Attend free community concerts and tree lightings. Have movie marathons at home. Bake cookies together. Make homemade ornaments. Check your library, community centers, and parks for free holiday events. Create traditions centered on togetherness rather than spending—volunteer together, host a cookie swap, start a gratitude jar. These cost almost nothing but create genuine holiday magic.
Wait 24 Hours Before Buying
Impulse purchases destroy budgets. See something you want? Add it to your cart or take a photo, but wait 24 hours before purchasing. If you still want it tomorrow and it fits your budget, consider it. Most impulse buys are driven by emotion—excitement, fear of missing out, the dopamine hit of “buy now.” When you wait, emotion fades and logic kicks in. You’ll be surprised how often you change your mind.
Shop Strategically
Start early to avoid panic buying. Use browser extensions like Honey for automatic coupons and cashback apps like Rakuten. Compare prices across retailers. Don’t assume holiday sales are actually good deals. Do your homework. Buy wrapping paper and decorations on December 26th at 50-75% off for next year. Stock up on non-perishable ingredients when they’re discounted. Forward thinking saves serious money over time.
Make Holiday Meals a Shared Effort
A holiday dinner can easily cost $200-300, but it doesn’t have to. Make it a potluck! Ask guests to bring a dish. Most people are happy to contribute, and it reduces your financial burden and stress. Choose recipes with affordable, seasonal ingredients. Focus on one great centerpiece dish and keep everything else simple. Skip expensive appetizers and elaborate cheese boards. Make your own centerpieces from yard clippings. Plan for leftovers that become meals throughout the week.
Know When to Say No
You don’t have to attend every party, match your neighbor’s light display, or give your kids everything on their wish list. Saying no to excessive spending is saying yes to financial peace. The guilt around holiday spending often comes from internalized messages about what the season “should” look like, not from the people who actually love you. Set boundaries without apology. Your future self will thank you.
The Real Gift
The holidays are about love, connection, and celebration, none of which require overspending. When you remove financial stress, you create more space for genuine joy. This year, set a budget that works for your life and stick to it. Choose thoughtfulness over expense. Focus on presence instead of presents. The best memories don’t come from how much you spent. They come from the intention and love you brought to every moment.
Share your best holiday budgeting tip in the comments below!