I really like the idea of not being wasteful but also hate the thought of being mean. Having said that not inviting my family over this year (hoping someone else will get the hint!) and will have the 'lets just buy for children' conversation with my sisters (by the way when do you stop buying for nieces and nephews - mine are all adults now, it's tricky as I have young children so my sisters will buy for them).
just added it all uo:
We are investing in a new tree and lights approx £200 - hopefully will last us years.
Aso small real tree for kitchen approx £30
Already have decorations, doing paper chains with DS which he will love. Spent around £20 buying few new baubles though…
Have cut christmas list down - cards and postage for remaining around £30
Presents DH family: £400
Presents my family: £100 plus £180 on special secret gift for my sister for being lovely & supportive (but already paid for).
DS £250, DD £100 (mainly clothes as she is only 4 months)
DH small token gifts approx £50 (cd/dvd/book)
Hosting Christmas for DH family, so Turkey/extra nice puddings, Christmas Eve nibbles etc will be around £200 I think
……..
Gulp £1380, so not at all frugal. Hoping no waste though, have put lots of thought into presents.