Everyone wants to celebrate generously during the holidays, but it’s important to remember your financial plan and savings goals. Right around Thanksgiving, your calendar fills up with events that can trigger more spending than you realize. From decorations to gifts, and meal planning to party clothes, the costs creep up. These six tips will help keep your season debt-free and bright.

1. Create a budget and stick with it

Prepare your holiday budget as early in the year as possible. Remember to include unexpected expenses such as travel, wrapping supplies, shipping and postage. Even additional groceries for out-of-town guests can add up, and don’t forget those new party clothes.

Next, consider your monthly income and expenses, then save enough to cover holiday costs. If you prefer not to incur credit card debt, then save into an account and pay cash only. Next, make a list of gift recipients and set a reasonable amount per person. And finally, consider adding 10% to your overall shopping budget to cover gifts for teachers, neighbors, co-workers, and party hosts and hostesses.

2. Start early and compare prices

Whether you prefer shopping in local stores or online, start early and compare prices. Don’t wait for last-minute holiday “deals,” as year-round budget shoppers drive many  retailers to offer good deals throughout the year. As a bonus, shopping early is more enjoyable and relaxing, and eliminates the stress of stores crowded with shoppers who waited until the last minute and show it on their frowning faces.

3. Avoid self-gifting

Don’t give in to the “three for them, one for me” temptation. Let your loved ones give you gifts. If there’s something you really want or need but don’t get from someone else, carefully evaluate the need and then buy it for yourself when after-holiday sales are in high gear. As always, though, you should stick to your budget.

4. Resist impulse buying

When you’ve completed shopping, and the gifts are wrapped and ready to give, resist the urge to buy just one more thing, even if you think it would be “perfect.” Retailers are experts at encouraging impulse buying. Remember your spending plan and just say no.

5. Pick names instead of giving a gift to everyone

Instead of buying for every friend, aunt, uncle and cousin, pick names a month before your holiday get-together, then take time to find the perfect present for your secret recipient. Giving gifts among your gathered group of family and friends is fun, and seeing all the joy can be priceless. It’s important, though, to set a dollar limit so everyone spends the same amount.

6. Plan celebrations that are gift-free and joyful

Showing your friends and the people you love that you care about them can be more meaningful than any gift. Find ways to show your loved ones they are your greatest gifts in life. Have a cocktail party and invite everyone to share the year’s greatest accomplishments, milestones, and hopes for the future. Have people write on paper, roll and ribbon each message, and drop in a basket for everyone to share. Connect to people in ways that will resonate like wrapped gifts simply can’t.