During a time when most people are tightening their belts, some believe Christmas is an exception and are splashing out
WORDS: MISHAAL KHAN, BECKY DICKINSON. MAIN PHOTO (POSED BY MODEL): GETTY
WHICH ONE ARE YOU?
With the run-up to the festive season in full swing, it seems we’re divided in the way we’re going to be celebrating this year. With the cost-of-living crisis, lots of families are choosing to pull back on the extras; the piles of presents and tables overflowing with food. But with life-changing things like the pandemic, many are keen to make sure that special moments with family are more memorable than ever, with no expense spared.
Last year, the average spending per head in a household ranged from just under £1,000 in the north east of England to almost £1,700 in London. Woman talks to two mums about their very different plans for Christmas…
‘THERE ARE NO LIMITS AT CHRISTMAS’
Claire Dee, 41, is a singer and lives in Swansea with her daughter, Sasha, three.
Some might say I’m extravagant, but there are no limits when it comes to Christmas. I’m happy to spend thousands of pounds to ensure it really is the most wonderful time of year.
My parents, Deb and Steve, always made it special for my two siblings and me, taking us to Orlando, Florida, and decorating the house with all the ornaments and lights they could. And since moving out at 18, I’ve held onto Christmas traditions dearly.
When I had my daughter, Sasha, in August 2020, it was my excuse to go even more over the top. This year, I’m taking Sasha, now three, to Orlando for three weeks, reliving my childhood memories and visiting Disney World. We’ll be travelling in first class and the whole trip has cost me £6,000.
Some might baulk at how much I’m spending, but I save all year round, working hard, and my parents help me out with some extra money for Christmas. I’m a single mum, I don’t drink or smoke, or splurge on beauty treatments and clothes, and I only spend what I can afford.
While we’re away this year, I’ve hired professionals who will decorate our house, creating a nativity scene in the front garden and making the inside of the house resemble a grotto, as I want the magic to continue for Sasha long after our trip.
Next year, I hope to take Sasha to Lapland to visit Father Christmas, so I’ll be saving hard all year to cover the £5,000 cost.
Last year, I took Sasha to London, the pair of u
