Have you pulled out your tree, the lights, garland, and other holiday decorations yet? I have some friends who start decorating as soon as Halloween ends, and then I have some who wait until after Thanksgiving. You don’t have to break the bank to achieve that special look whenever you decide to start.

Give DIY a try! You don’t have to run to the store to buy expensive decor. You can create many DIY items on your own time, and the great thing is that you can personalize your items. Take a walk through your favorite store for inspiration. You may be pleasantly surprised at what you can make for half the cost.

Use Lots of Ornaments! Ornaments have so many uses besides hanging on the tree. They can be used as filler for baskets and vases, and the best thing is that they come in all different shapes, sizes, and colors, so you can coordinate however you like. You may find your local discount stores carry a wide variety and only cost a few dollars.

Wrap boxes as decor! If you are anything like me, you probably have been shopping online and have plenty of empty boxes. Wrapping cereal, food, and pizza boxes helps your shapes and sizes vary. Wrapping boxes like presents is easy and adds a nice touch to your decor.

Shop Discount Stores! I love a good deal, so I frequent local discount stores such as Dollar Tree® Dollar General ®, and I must say, last year, I caught the after-Christmas sale at Hobby Lobby®, and I ended up with two carts full of holiday decor, and it only cost me about $40.00.

An example of the vast selection of decorations found at Dollar Tree®

Let your creativity flow this year. You probably have items in your home right now that will be perfect for holiday decorating. Remember, you don’t have to break the bank to achieve that special look. Happy Holidays!