The holidays are a time for family, for gathering with friends, and of course — for eating! But as we all no doubt know by now, the cost of food isn't getting any cheaper.
So in order to alleviate the financial burden of feeding her large family, one mother has come up with a rather Scroogey idea: if you want to be a guest at her table, it'll cost you an arm and turkey leg.
It's the one time of year where we all try to be a little kinder toward one another and be thankful for the friends and family we have in our lives.
When I think of the holidays, I think of my nana's dressing (what elderly Irish women call "stuffing"). One spoonful of that marvelous concoction instantly transports me back to my childhood.
According to a forecast created by Investopdedia.com, the average budget for American holiday spending in 2021 sits right around $1000 per consumer. This includes things like food, alcohol, gifts, and decorations.
In order for Gemma's family to attend her Christmas dinner, they must contribute £30 (roughly $40 USD) per person. During an appearance on the UK morning show This Morning, Gemma explained how she came to this Scroogey decision.
The first year she hosted, five family members decided to cancel at the absolute last minute. Then, when Gemma decided to do a potluck style dinner the following year — several people conveniently "forgot" their dish.
To ensure that something like this would never happen again, Gemma began charging £10 per head for adults and nothing for the children. But in order to keep up with the rising cost of food, Gemma has had to increase the amount substantially.
To which Gemma responded by saying, "The alcohol content has gone up as more children become adults, and there are more people who have had children.”
If it were me, I'd be asking Gemma if I could pay less and simply not receive a gift. I understand having to pay for my supper, but why should I also have to buy myself a present?
"For me, I think with you and your family, you’ve come to an arrangement that suits everybody," Phil said. "And so it’s not for anyone to judge how you decide you’re gonna fund your Christmas.”
The question was simple: "Would you charge your friends and family for Christmas dinner?" Resoundingly, the television viewers watching from home said that they wouldn't feel comfortable charging guests.
While it's true that the holidays are a time for giving, it shouldn't come at the expense of you or your family's personal and financial wellbeing. Whatever works for you is precisely what you should do — without fear of judgment.
