It’s chocolate time again
I have been so engrossed with my house build project and moving into my new home, Easter has crept up on me this year. I have seen the colourful displays of chocolate eggs and bunny-shaped treats in the supermarket. And I have indulged in a number of those packs of little mini eggs, and a few marshmallow ones, and a few crème eggs as well. Oh, dear I seem to have shopped on automatic pilot!
What I have also noticed is the displays don’t seem to be as large as last year. Maybe that’s just my local area, so I’m interested to hear your thoughts on this in the comments. What I have also noticed, is the price of the Easter treats, they certainly have gone up since last year as well.
So, before you dive any further into the seasonal splurge, here are some tips to help you avoid overspending and keep your wallet happy.
I also can’t resist Hot Cross Buns.. I think I saw the first pack coming out in February! I love them, but I was able to resist sampling them until a couple of weeks ago. Since then, I’ve tried the super expensive ones through to the cheap and cheerful supermarket range. I’ve given up thinking about my waistline until after the long weekend. I can make Hot Cross buns myself, but as I have just moved house, and had a lot going on, I’m time poor this year. You can hear the justification bias here can’t you!
The allure of special occasion spending is natural, especially when those tempting displays linger for weeks on end. And if you’ve got kids in tow during your weekly grocery run, saying no can feel impossible.
With a few days to go until Easter, there is still time to get creative and do something different that might be a bit lighter on the wallet (can’t promise the waistline), and keep the kids occupied as it’s school holiday time too.
1. Set a Countdown
This might be an idea for next year, unless of course you are a last-minute egg shopper. In the same way we have advent calendars for Christmas, why not do the same for Easter? Decide when to buy your Easter treats and create a countdown at home. This gives you a solid reason to resist impulse buys and builds excitement for the big day.
2. Allocate Fun Money
Instead of dipping into your grocery budget, use your “fun” or “pocket money” account for Easter treats. This forces you to think twice about whether those Easter treats are worth it.
3. DIY Delights
If you’re feeling crafty, why not try making your own Easter eggs? It’s not just a money-saving strategy; it’s a fun activity that can make you feel accomplished. Plus, you can control both the ingredients and the cost. I remember my daughter happily painting hard boiled eggs. Do kids still do this?
This year Mum has made Easter surprise muffins, they are very easy to make, and even the grown up’s love the surprise in the middle.
4. Go Chocolate-Free
If you’re up for it, suggest a chocolate-free Easter celebration. Instead, spend quality time with loved ones, enjoy a leisurely stroll on the beach, or simply relax with a good book. Who needs chocolate when you’ve got good company? This can be a great way to strengthen your bond with your loved ones.
If you can go chocolate free, you have more will-power than I do. Confession time, I have a container of mini eggs in the fridge, and I’m about to go and dip into it once I’ve finished this article.
Here’s one last piece of advice: don’t feel obligated to buy Easter eggs just because everyone else is doing it. Recognise that pressure to conform, and don’t be afraid to go against the grain.
However, if you choose to celebrate Easter with chocolate eggs or without, I hope you have a safe and enjoyable holiday!