Holiday décor on a dime

The holiday season is upon us and it’s time to decorate the house! This is one of the best parts of the season. It’s fun and festive-but it can also blow your holiday budget out if you’re not careful.

Before you get carried away, here are a few tips on how to decorate your home on the cheap.

Bring the outdoors in

Some of the best (and least expensive) décor available to you is stuff that is available right in your own backyard (or your neighbours, or a nearby field- you get the idea). Use things like pine boughs, pussy willows and pinecones to create garlands, centrepieces or door hangers. If you are really crafty, you can even fashion a wreath out of pine branches. Get your glue gun going, stick a bow on and you are done.

The dollar store

Is there any greater budgetary ally than the dollar store? True, this stuff is not built to last, but you get to replace and refresh your décor every year. This is a great spot to collect holiday décor staples, like candles and table coverings. If you are hosting a holiday gathering this year (or if you are just particularly thorough when it comes to your décor efforts) pick up holiday-themed serving platters, dishes and glassware.

DIY

Some of the best (and most memorable) holiday decorations are those that are homemade. Get crafty with your kids and make ornaments, table décor nativity scenes or whatever you like. Kids love making paper chains too, which can be colourful and are a great way to count down to the big day!

Light it up

Is there anything more festive than holiday lighting? Beware though- these energy suckers can boost your energy costs sky-high. Make sure you’re using LED bulbs, which are a little pricier at the outset, but last longer and use less energy.

Instead of purchasing and installing lights, swap out porch lightbulbs for red or green. Place a spotlight with a coloured bulb too, which is much cheaper and casts a wide light.