My Dearest Seasonal-Loving Maven,

By Treshelle Williams, M.Ed

As the first whispers of fall grace our ears, and the kaleidoscope of colors dance around, there’s a sense of excitement in the air. The fall season, with its multiple holidays, approaches with the promise of joy, togetherness, and… expenses.

Now, before you furrow that brow, let’s chat. Fall may bring a succession of holidays, each with its own charm and, let’s be honest, its own budget. But the beauty of this season is that, with a touch of forethought, we can revel in every festivity, without putting our wealth-building activities, like investing and portfolio diversification, on the back burner.

Remember, darling, every fall festivity — from Halloween costumes to Thanksgiving feasts, and the ever-glamorous Christmas gifts — has an attached expense. And let’s not forget the other necessities: that wardrobe transition as we bid adieu to summer, home decorations echoing autumn, pre-winter car checks, and so much more. It sounds overwhelming, but here’s the silver lining — with proper preparation, none of these have to catch us off guard.

Introducing: Expense Mapping. Forget those old-school budgets that feel like chains around our wallets. Expense mapping is our magical compass, charting our course through the spending seas of the season. It’s liberating, offering the agility to navigate, adjust, and reach our destination with grace. Why? Because it maps out not just where our money is going, but ensures our money takes us where we want to go.

Now, as promised, here are your enchanted tips to navigate the upcoming seasons:

1. Fairy-Planned Festivities: Envision your holiday season, in all its glittering splendor, and map out every joyous detail. Crave those pumpkin spice lattes? Jot them down. Anticipating glorious dinners and sparkling holiday parties? Plan for them. And those heartfelt Christmas gifts that warm the soul? Include them too! By fairy-planning it all, the allure of unexpected expenses fades, and instead of feeling the pinch, you’ll twirl in the magic of a well-planned festive season.
2. Crystal Ball Costing: Remember, in the land of holidays, it’s better to over-estimate than get caught off-guard. As you glance into your financial crystal ball, see not just the gifts and glitters but their true costs. By foreseeing a tad more than you expect, you not only shield yourself from surprise expenses but also ensure a season filled with joy and minus the stress. After all, who wants unforeseen expenses to cloud their holiday cheer?
3. Gift to Your Future Enchanted Self: In the midst of the holiday whirlwind, there’s someone truly magical you mustn’t forget – the future, sparkling version of you! As you generously gift others, sprinkle some magic for yourself too. Not just in presents wrapped in shimmering bows, but in the form of investment gifts. Every year, treat yourself to a special wealth-growing potion or asset. It’s a gift that keeps on giving, and future you, seated on her throne of financial savvy, will be forever grateful for the foresight.

Wrap yourself in the warmth of preparation, and you’ll find this season can be as carefree and enchanting as you’ve always dreamt. Dive into the festivities, dance under the golden leaves, and remember: a season enjoyed with an expense map in hand is a season without financial regrets.

With sparkles, love, and a touch of holiday enchantment,

Your Money Fairy