Taking the Ho Hum Out of Holidays (And Keeping the Happy!)

Because Life Is Expensive — but joy doesn’t have to be.

Let’s be real: some years the holidays feel less like “Ho Ho Ho” and more like “Oh no no no.”
Between gift lists, travel, food, events, and the sudden need for matching pajamas, the season can get pricey fast.

But this year? We’re turning the cheer back on — without turning your wallet inside out.

Velocity is here to help you spend smarter, stress less, and keep the happy in the holidays.

Here’s how:

1. Simplify the gifting chaos

• Skip the marathon gift hunt and go for thoughtful rather than complicated.
  One perfect cozy gift > 12 “what even is this?” trinkets that disappear by February.
• Try a gifting formula like: something to wear, something to share, something to read.
  Your budget will breathe a sigh of relief.

2. Build a “Bare Minimum Holiday”

• Make a list of the actual things that make you smile — the movie you rewatch every year, the cookies you love, the tradition that feels like home.
• Everything else? Optional.
  No one gives out grades for gingerbread house architecture.

3. Make a money plan (that doesn’t make you cry)

• Holiday spending doesn’t have to snowball into “surprise” debt in January.
  Set a simple budget, check it twice, and keep impulse-shopping from stealing your joy.
• Want to stay festive and financially flexible?
  Use smart tools — like savings automations or goal trackers — to glide through the season without the “holiday hangover.” Or follow us on Social Media and check out our “Winter Wonders” – low-cost events and ways to have fun and celebrate the holidays without breaking the bank.

‍♀️ 4. Say no. A lot.

• No, you don’t need to attend every potluck.
• No, you don’t have to bake 97 cookies shaped like snowflakes.
• No, you definitely don’t need to host Cousin Todd “just until he figures things out.”
  Protect your energy the way you protect the last peppermint mocha.

5. Rediscover actual fun

• Remember fun?

Hot cocoa. Pajamas. Board games that get way too competitive.

Driving around looking at lights while everyone sings enthusiastically (and wildly off-key).

Checking out the free holiday happenings throughout greater Austin?

• Lean into the simple joys — your inner child will absolutely approve.

️ 6. Create a calm corner

• Every home needs a “please don’t bother me unless you have pie” zone. A comfy chair, a warm drink, and five quiet minutes can transform holiday chaos into holiday peace.

Bottom line: Make your holidays yours

• This year is all about cozy, calm, budget-friendly joy.

Because life is expensive — but making memories doesn’t have to be.

Take the Ho Hum out of the holidays and bring the magic back where it belongs.