Saving Money on Baby's First Christmas

I will admit it, I am a total Christmas nut! I love everything about it: I love the hustle bustle, the mad rush, the crowded malls, the nonstop Christmas music, all of it. Some call me a glutten for punishment and many don't understand me at all. I am that person that starts listening to Christmas music the day after Halloween. It's just such a great time of year full of great friends and family, music, food, presents--how can you not love it? I know that I'm in the minority of those who love the craziness, but I will admit that I take special steps to prepare for Christmas well in advance so I'm not stressed. I started doing this when I got married and now that we're about to celebrate our baby's first Christmas, I have found ways to save myself some stress and money. Honestly, you can make this work for you too so listen to my tips and try them out.

*Start shopping early, it really does pay off. I am happy to say that I have already started my Christmas shopping and have been picking things up for my daughter along the way. This way you're not strapped with a huge bill at the end for all the presents you have to frantically buy. Even a present here or there can add up and can also ensure that you have plenty for your little one to open.

*Check the clearance aisle. I know this sounds super cheap, but you would be amazed at what great things you can find in the clearance aisle at Target. There are some great gifts that are way marked down either because the store is overstocked or an improved version is coming out of that particular toy. I have some fantastic toys in the basement for Christmas morning that I got on super sale.

*Consider mom to mom sales for some fun items. I know that this sounds crazy but hear me out. There are some really wonderful toys out there that have in many cases, been barely used. Consider things like the fun little walkers or mini baby bikes/scooters as an example. The reality is that your baby will likely spend a couple of months on these toys if you're lucky so you still get them something cool but not at a huge retail price.

*If there are specific items that you know you want for baby's first Christmas, put them on a list. You will honestly get so many questions from aunts, grandparents, cousins, and friends as to what baby would like or need. This is a great time to be honest and put your requests out there. Just be realistic with what people will spend!

*Face the reality that your baby will likely not remember their first Christmas anyhow. Let's face it, this Christmas is really more about you as the parent and the photo opportunity than anything else. The chances of your baby remembering what they opened under the tree for the first time are very slim. That being said, don't go nuts! I have a few really great presents and am going to try hard to restrain myself from buying too much as she will likely get a bunch of stuff anyhow.

Baby's first Christmas can be memorable without breaking the bank. If you spend some time planning and keep a keen eye out for sales and good deals, then you can celebrate with great items at a fraction of the cost.