(Though we like think of it more as ‘making the most of what you already have’.)

We’re poised and ready with our jam jars and labels, twinkle and sticky stars, knitting needles and yarn and family photos (the ones without the red eyes), to have a far more creative Christmas. It’s not all about flashing the cash (‘cash, what cash?’ we hear you cry!). True, it helps if you’re actually good at cooking, knitting or sewing, but with a bit of thought you can make something good using what you already have by adding a bit of (creative) sparkle.

It’s the same for company promotions and branding. If you already have an established business, it’s time to work creatively with what you already have to make some changes which will reap the rewards you need.

• Already have a great database of customer emails? Why not send them an eshot letting them know (or reminding them of) what you can offer them?
• Need to shout about a new product or service that you’ve already developed with an advert or leaflet? It costs less than you think to raise your profile.
• Need to reconnect with loyal customers through a cost-effective Christmas promotion? You’d be surprised how well people respond to being valued and updated.

So it’s not about spending and re-designing but more about making the most of what you’ve got, raising the profile of your business and getting the return you deserve in a few simple promotional steps (a crafty way of saving money too).

Speaking of which:

Homemade Christmas decorations

Festive jammie dodgers