Consumer 6: Tips for reducing your holiday price tag

Wednesday, November 29th 2000, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

How can you beat the high price of the holidays? December can be an expensive month with presents, decorations, and parties. It all adds up quickly, however there are ways to cut costs.

One expense often overlooked involves holiday entertaining. Budget experts say one thing to remember during the holidays is that you don't have to pay for the entire party. "Share the entertainment costs,â€ said Counsumer Credit Counselingâ€™s Meredith Exline. â€œHave other people who are coming to your party bring a dish, so that all expenses don't sit on your shoulders."

Other tips from Consumer Credit Counseling. First, make a plan and a budget to match it. Read all the store advertisements, and shop the sales. Create a menu based on sale items. Make items from scratch, instead of buying convenience foods and consider buying generic brands. These ideas could help you save money while you enjoy your holiday party. And you could still have money left over when it's time for the New Years' celebration.