The easiest way I've found to keep track of my Christmas spending and to stay within budget is super simple. I lable an envelope "Christmas Reciepts" and keep it on hand in the kitchen (where I unload everything). As I'm out shopping I make sure to pay for all Christmas things seperate from anything else. When the cashier hands me the receipt I immedietly stick it in a bag. As I unload at home I put aside the receipts then stick them in the envelope. Not only does it make going over your budget easier but it keeps receits handy for returns!
When the Holidays are over I go through all the receipts and figure out how much I spent in different categories, such as: baking supplies, gifts for each family member, gifts for people outside the family, wrapping, decorations, cards, stamps, etc. It's then easy to budget and figure out where you can cut back or add to for the next year.
Tip: if you are paying cash, then as you put your receipt in the bag put your change in with it. Save it until after Christmas and then spend it on sale stuff or a relaxing night out with your hubby!
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