Who says Christmas has to cost a fortune?

Christmas is renowned for being an expensive time of year, but who says it has to be that way?  This isn't a sponsored post, just a few bargains I thought I'd share with you all.

I do try and shop independently where possible, I get a great sense of joy at being able to support small business and local businesses and have bought some handmade and locally sourced gifts for family and friends this year, however at times it is hard to compete with the many pound shops cropping up around the place.

I hate to say it, but I am a fan of these shops.  The value for money for some of their items really are second to none, and it has helped immensely in allowing me to keep control of the purse strings this Christmas.  Poundland in particular this year has been very impressive.

I was organised this year and bought all my wrapping paper in the January sales from Next & M&S, but I have in the past used wrapping paper from pound shops and have always found it to be pretty good quality.  I have bought labels and ribbon from Poundland this year.  I couldn't resist these, and for a pound why would you?

I just love how you can get so much in one place for so little.  Don't get me wrong, some things can be bought cheaper from places like Home Bargains (B&M) or Pound Stretcher but the majority of things that are being sold are usually much cheaper than you would find elsewhere.

I mean come on, where else could you pick up a table runner for a pound?  And matching place mats a pack of 2, yes £1.

Even tree decorations.  A pack of six red and white bells £1.  These ones are actually from last year but I have seen them again this year.  You just can't fault it.

So, as much as I hate the way these shops are taking away from our independent shops, there really is just no way that you can compete with prices and quality like this.  It's a shame but you'd be a fool not to take advantage of it.

Happy spending my lovelies,

Gem