A mother who manages to keep her Christmas expenses under £100 for her three children is facing online criticism for her frugal approach. Sadie Farren, 28, from Leeds, sticks to a strict budget during the festive season, often spending even less than her set limit. She emphasizes that her children are content with modest gifts rather than extravagant ones.
Setting a £200 cap for each Christmas, Sadie aims not to surpass it to avoid financial strain. She mentioned, “Last year, I only spent £80, and this year, I’m spending slightly less, which surprised me.” Her children’s wish lists mainly consist of books, LEGO, and crafts, with the priciest item being a £25 shared gift for her daughters—a gymnastics bar and mat.
By adhering to a budget, Sadie remains focused and avoids succumbing to the pressure of overspending that many families experience during the holiday season. Despite her prudent approach, she faced backlash online with some individuals labeling her as “stingy” and criticizing her for purchasing second-hand gifts.
Undeterred by the negative comments, Sadie persisted with her budgeting strategy this year, emphasizing that her children’s happiness is paramount. She highlighted that her previous experiences of overspending led to unappreciated gifts and financial strain. Simplifying Christmas has made the holiday more magical for her family, reducing stress and enhancing quality time together.
Sadie shared her money-saving tactics, which include hunting for bargains through platforms like Vinted and WhatNot. She advised others to shop wisely, compare prices, and utilize discount code extensions when shopping online. Embracing the “four-gift rule” and exploring charity shops for hidden treasures can also help cut costs without compromising on quality.
Despite facing criticism, Sadie remains steadfast in her budgeting principles, emphasizing that her approach not only benefits her family financially but also minimizes environmental impact through donations and mindful spending practices.