Martin Lewis co-star Angelica Bell on how not to get into debt this Christmas
A familiar face on our TVs since the early noughties, Angellica Bell knows her stuff when it comes to saving money. And if there’s one thing the 47-year-old, who co-hosts Shop Smart Save Money on Channel 5, is sure about, it’s that Christmas should be all about “making memories, not debt”.
The mum of two is a huge fan of the festive season but believes that experiences and love should overshadow endless spending in the run-up to the big day.
She tells us: “We’re in a cost of living crisis in the UK. Families could consider not buying gifts and just being together and sharing a meal. You really need to live for the moment and enjoy yourself.”
From as far back as 2001 Angellica has felt passionately about educating others on taking a sensible approach to money. She hosted Short Change on CBBC alongside The Gadget Show’s Ortis Deley – a show that empowered young people on saving, spending and getting value – and most recently joined forces with money expert Martin Lewis on his show, prompting the nation into paying their credit card balances off in full each month.
Angellica has offered her money advice (Leo Holden/Snooty Fox Images)Angellica’s advice to anyone considering taking on debt at this time of year is, “In a nutshell, don’t. What we don’t want is for families to feel that pressure to get into unnecessary debt just to create this magical day. Then New Year creeps in – and so do the bills.
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“We can get a little excited at Christmas but tracking what you spend is vital. Choose time over money every time and say no to gifts. Just be together.” But what if not giving presents isn’t an option? “Be realistic. Just say, ‘We’re all going to spend this amount of money on everybody.’ That way, everyone has a gift but no one’s under pressure.”
Making Christmas memories, the tradition and nostalgic touches are the best bits about the festive period anyway, Angellica believes.
“Doing a jigsaw together, Christmas music playing in the background, just the memories and laughter sitting around the TV. Marking the Radio Times to make sure you catch your telly faves – those are valuable experiences that money can’t buy. Conversations over clutter, I say.”
In the run-up to Christmas, some might be tempted to push the boat out for their families no matter the cost and make some worrying financial decisions. Interest-free credit cards, short-term loans and store cards are dangled like carrots in front of us, and it can be easy to go for a quick fix.
Angellica recommends setting a budget for Christmas presents (Leo Holden/Snooty Fox Images)“I’m not a fan of credit cards,” says Angelica. “It’s a difficult one and people can get themselves into a lot of trouble. You have to know how disciplined you are and make sure you work in those parameters – and not many people can.
“I would never recommend a credit card but it’s about being realistic with who you are and your goals. I’d much rather advise budgeting in the first place and planning before the big day.”
Angelica also recommends “tracking income and expenditure” as much as possible. “Maybe use January to take stock of all sorts of payments and cut them – have a financial clear out. Subscriptions you don’t use and other things that can be cancelled.”
Looking further ahead into 2024, the presenter has plans for more relaxation, with some very homely pursuits on the cards.
“I’ve always wanted to crochet. My gran taught me when I was little and I haven’t done it since, then about two Christmases ago I got a crochet book and needle. I haven’t picked it up yet, but I will. Next year is about ticking off the things I really want to do.”
But with plans to study for a master’s degree “in history, politics or media,” it doesn’t sound like Angellicawillbe putting her feet up any time soon, and in reality, it seems she’ll be busier than ever.
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“I love meeting people and my job allows me to do this – I’m very grateful – but I want to expand on my personal growth too. Going out and clubbing, just fun things. I want to meet more friends for lunch and enjoy renovating my house – which for now is crazy!”
Angellica has just moved into a new home with husband and fellow TV presenter Michael Underwood and their two children, who she prefers to keep out of the limelight. The house was built in 1860 and, she tells us, needs “floor to ceiling” modernisation.
“They even found asbestos under the floorboards but it’s my dream home. I watch all those interior shows and it never seems so bad, until you’re living in it. But I’m determined to because I saved every penny for this and I don’t want to pay for a second home to live in.
“I’m not wasting those savings,” she tells us with a smile. You’re an inspiration, Angelica!
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