WHILE most people are still enjoying summer holidays, one mum has already ticked off a huge festive milestone – starting her Christmas shopping.
Sharing her experience online, mum Maddy revealed how a trip to B&M turned into a full-blown festive haul.
Not only did she do her Christmas shopping but she also compiled Christmas Eve hampers[/caption]
In a clip on her @moonlitmaddyx account, she shared: “It is August the 23rd, and I’m going to see my Christmas shopping.
“Yes, you heard that right – Christmas shopping.
“I was surprised when I saw how much Christmas stuff was already in store. I said to my partner, ‘I might as well just get it all done.’”
The mum explained that the experience was far more enjoyable than doing it in the usual chaos of November and December.
She explained the perks, saying: “There’s no crowds, everything’s in stock, and it was actually a really nice experience.
“When you go Christmas shopping later in the year, it’s absolute chaos.
“This way, I felt like I had first dibs on everything. It was amazing.”
She also pointed out that planning early has financial benefits.
Maddy said she puts aside £50 a month so she is able to budget without stress.
The savvy mum was able to use the cash she already had to do the early Christmas shopping haul.
She added: “It just seemed like the perfect opportunity.”
Maddy raved about B&M for having something for everyone in the family, and said: “I just don’t think you can beat B&M for gifts.
“I managed to get nearly everyone in my family something, including my youngest and my in-laws.”
And it wasn’t just Christmas she stocked up for.
With Halloween displays also in full swing, she grabbed decorations and treats to make up two themed baskets for her children.
Although she says her family doesn’t go trick-or-treating, she still likes to make the occasion special.
Maddy raved about the Halloween items being sold too[/caption]
Maddy explained: “It’s just something as a family that we decided not to participate in – I do still make them up some Halloween baskets.
“So again, B&M was amazing for this.They have so much Halloween stuff in store, and I got some great little bits for their baskets.”
By the end of her haul, she had so much ready for Christmas morning, plus Halloween baskets and even Christmas Eve hampers.
Many people were hugely impressed with her organisation, with one saying: “that’s kinda smart…..”
A second pointed out: “This is good idea because when November December comes you have money for yourself.”
However, one said: “Can’t afford school uniform let alone Christmas.”
And one commented: “Part of my Christmas is shuffling through the Christmas crowds. I love the atmosphere. Crazy I know.”
How to save money on Christmas shopping
Consumer reporter Sam Walker reveals how you can save money on your Christmas shopping.
Limit the amount of presents – buying presents for all your family and friends can cost a bomb.
Instead, why not organise a Secret Santa between your inner circles so you’re not having to buy multiple presents.
Plan ahead – if you’ve got the stamina and budget, it’s worth buying your Christmas presents for the following year in the January sales.
Make sure you shop around for the best deals by using price comparison sites so you’re not forking out more than you should though.
Buy in Boxing Day sales – some retailers start their main Christmas sales early so you can actually snap up a bargain before December 25.
Delivery may cost you a bit more, but it can be worth it if the savings are decent.
Shop via outlet stores – you can save loads of money shopping via outlet stores like Amazon Warehouse or Office Offcuts.
They work by selling returned or slightly damaged products at a discounted rate, but usually any wear and tear is minor.