A Manchester mother has sparked a debate after revealing she buys her children's Christmas presents from charity shops while still treating herself to salon manicures.
The savvy shopping strategy saving hundreds
Liv Poole, a 26-year-old mum of two from Manchester, estimates she has saved up to £300 this festive season by purchasing second-hand toys for her two and four-year-olds. She often spends as little as 80p per item, sourcing popular gifts like Peppa Pig toys, a vintage Fisher-Price barn, and Bluey play sets.
Her motivation stems from a yearly declutter each spring, where she consistently finds that most brand-new Christmas gifts have been barely touched. "I was spending hundreds of pounds on things that were later just discarded," Liv explained, prompting her to change her approach.
Facing judgment for prioritising self-care
Despite the significant savings, Liv says she faces criticism from some parents who believe Christmas presents should always be brand new. This judgment is often compounded when she shares her charity shop hauls alongside images of her professionally done nails.
"They believe presents should be brand new, and judge me for having my nails done when I’m showing my second-hand presents," she said. Liv argues that her strategy allows her to redirect funds towards creating family memories, rather than on toys that lose their appeal within months.
Top tips for charity shop success
Undeterred by the critics, Liv regularly shares her bargain-hunting tips on social media. She visits her local charity shops two or three times a week, as stock is refreshed daily.
Her key recommendations include:
- Focus on timeless items: "You just can't go wrong with a teddy because you can just put it in the washing machine and it's literally brand new."
- Snap up children's books: These can cost around 50p in charity shops, compared to £5 in mainstream retailers.
- Search thoroughly: Have a good "root" around in boxes and on shelves, as the best deals are often hidden.
Some of her best finds include a Peppa Pig Princess Castle for 80p and a pair of Marks and Spencer wellies, still bearing the original £17 tag, which she bought for just £2.
A supportive community emerges online
While she expected negativity, Liv says the reaction to her money-saving mission has been largely positive. Many people online have expressed shared concerns about overconsumption and rising toy prices.
"It has made me feel very happy knowing that there are people out there watching my videos and going searching in charity shops for presents for their kids," she said. Liv's story highlights a growing trend of parents seeking sustainable and financially sensible alternatives during the costly Christmas period.
