She told That's Christmas 365: “I’ve seen a sharp rise in people sharing money-saving hacks on social media. It shows you can be generous to yourself and others even when funds are tight.”
Gemma has pulled together her 12 Days of Christmas Money-Saving Hacks so you can spread joy without spreading yourself too thin.
‘12 days of Christmas’: 12 money-saving hacks to save you cash
Start with a Christmas budget
Set an overall budget and divide it by category. “There’s no one-size-fits-all approach,” says Gemma. “A family of four will spend more on food than a couple without children.” “An easy way to do this is with a spreadsheet or banking apps to split money into pots.”
Shop early to beat price hikes
Many start shopping as early as September.
Sign up for bank switches or cashback schemes
The big banks are offering up to £200 if you open an account. If not switching, try cashback apps or websites.
Always check for discount codes
Search for discount codes. If you find none, sign up to the brand’s newsletter for a discount.
Use loyalty points for your Christmas food shop
“A lot of people don’t realise how much they’ve earned,” says Gemma. “You can usually find out how much you have in vouchers on the company’s website or by asking in store.”
Reuse and reimagine your wrapping
Try fabric wraps, decorate brown paper, or reuse saved paper.
Start your food shop early and buy over time
Add one non-perishable festive item each week to avoid a December budget hit.
Shop off-price retailers
“MandM lets you shop premium brands for up to 65% less all-year round.”
Try DIY decorations that cost next to nothing
Dried orange garland, a foraged wreath, DIY baubles.
Make your own Christmas crackers
Purchase a kit or make them yourself and choose what goes inside.
Try a family secret Santa
Set a budget and draw names for one meaningful gift each.
Embrace the four-gift rule for kids
Something they want, need, wear, read.
“People are realising that a thoughtful, budget-friendly Christmas often feels more special,” says Gemma.
Shop premium-branded fashion, outdoor and sportswear at up to 65% off all year round at mandmdirect.com.