Trying to budget and celebrate at the same time can be tricky. In today’s world, the more money you spend, the more you supposedly enjoy and have a good time. But that’s not entirely true in all cases. Preparing for the upcoming holidays can be expensive, troublesome and time-consuming if not done in the right manner. Rhea Tony gives you ideas that will ensure you have a good time this festive season, while staying within your budget.
Prep-time
Make lists
An easy way to keep track of things is to list them down. Making lists helps you remember and strike off things you’ve already achieved. Last-minute shopping is a complete no-no! Shopping for things at the last-minute (on or not on your lists) will not only tempt you to impulse-buy everything you see but also restrict you from getting a good deal.
Buy, but smartly
When it comes to buying things during the festive season, keep in mind that prices are always hiked and then discounted to lure you. So don’t get trapped into clearance sales, offers and schemes easily. Always check thoroughly and wherever possible ask for a proof of sale or a bill. This will also help you keep track of your expenses and budgets. At the same time, surf the internet to see the kind of deals available. Popular shopping websites such as Amazon, Myntra and Flipkart have great discounts right up to Diwali that you should make maximum use of.
Bulk-buy
You don’t need to shop every year for festivals. Curb those urges and buy your decor and other knick-knacks in bulk if you can. This ensures you can stock up for the future without spending any more money on the same things.
Roadside shopping
Let’s be honest, not everyone can afford going to the mall every second day. And technically you don’t need to either! Roadside shopping spots around the city usually tend to sell the same goodies for a lesser price. If not fancy, you might find some quirky designs and decorations instead. Buying from these hawkers and roadside vendors will help brighten their lives as well.
Plan Well
Save on sweets
Rather than spending tons of money on expensive sweets, opt to make them right in your kitchen. Go for easy and time-saving recipes that you can serve your guests and gorge on, guilt-free as well. To make it more fun, you can turn it into a group activity with cousins and children. Dried fruits and fresh fruits are healthier options for those who want to watch their weight.
Group outings
A sensible way of spending money is to go out in groups to restaurants, sightseeing spots or even a stroll on the beach. The bigger the group, the less you end up spending on food and other things. Group outings with family or friends can be equally enjoyable in this festive atmosphere.
House parties
Putting a party together at home is always a good idea. Rather than bursting noisy crackers, and adding to the pollution, make some noise right in your living room. Invite your family and friends for a party with lip-smacking sweets and snacks (all preferably home-made we hope!) and a game of antakshari. You could always have a theme party and don on fun costumes, while you dance to Bollywood numbers.
Décor Dos
Upcycled décor
While you get busy with all the planning, you cannot forget to decorate your home to suit the Diwali mood! Using fairy lights or scented floating candles in mason jars in place of regular diyas can look very trendy. Also, recycling is a great idea to save on the pennies and make a statement. Painting old lamps and adding a bauble or two to old showpieces can be a great idea. You can also opt to go for DIY and make your own masterpieces with the help of junk lying around your house. Instead of adding to the noise, opt for rangolis and washable wall paint to give interesting touches in and around your house.
Light lanterns
Another fun idea is to light a sky lantern instead of the usual patakas this year. Floating lanterns are a good way to keep the environment safe and pollution-free. Spread some light this festive season with colourful lanterns that you can release with family and friends. Tip: You can add a heartfelt message or note with the hope of it reaching someone, somewhere across the world.
Smart gifting
This year upgrade your gifting techniques with this smart move—gift cards! Why worry about what to buy when you can just gift a card to anyone that lets them buy whatever they want. Isn’t it better to gift them cash and let them use it how they want to? No chances of not liking this gift! You save time on searching for the ‘perfect’ gift for each person. Pick up gift cards from shopping outlets to bookshops and online stores depending on their preferences. We’re sure they’ll appreciate the gift card more than anything else!
Reuse and recycle
After all the hassle, save money and time by packing away everything carefully. You can either reuse them or send them off for recycling. Another smart option is to upcycle your décor from this year for future. Reusing and recycling is a good way to ensure you don’t waste resources or harm the environment even in the tiniest way. Let reuse and recycle be the motto of this festive season.
Use Your diwali bonus wisely
A large number of companies reward their employees with a bonus around Diwali. And often, the festive budget is based on the bonus received. However, it is important to ensure a good chunk of the bonus goes into savings. Especially, considering the fact that tax declarations are to be made in the preceding months. After all, the happy times during the festive season should not be followed by financial woes in the coming months in the form of increased credit card payments or EMI payments.
