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Earth Day is a great time to add a little green into your pocket and back into the Earth. However, a lot of people never really know what to do to make their Earth Day celebration count. For many, new ideas may seem expensive or too complicated to try which causes them to push aside the holiday and move on to the next. Earth Day doesn’t have to be anything but fun though. Instead of worrying about price consider green ideas that may actually bring money back into the house. If you’re still at a loss, here’s ten fun ideas that can turn Earth Day into one of the most frugal holidays of the year.

1. Don’t Drive Solo
One of the biggest contributions to environmental problems is how many cars are on the road. Our carbon footprints are getting bigger and bigger every day because we burn so many natural resources when we don’t have to. This Earth Day you may want to organize a carpool within your workplace or your child’s school. If you can, don’t even drive at all. Try to plan your route using public transportation. A transit pass is easy to get and may even save you quite a bit of money. Of course, you don’t have to simply stick with motorized transportation as a whole. If a location isn’t too far away you can always try cycling or walking to the destination in order to be even more green. With all of these changes you won’t spend as much on gas, you’ll get into better shape and you may even feel better about the part you play in making the environment cleaner for future generations.

2. Garden
One of the more obvious choices for Earth Day is to plant something. Trees are usually the more common item to plant, but many end up costing a lot of money. However, if you do have extra money to purchase a tree then it makes a great investment for both you and the environment. Trees can help shade the home when they’re large enough which is great for cooling costs in the summer and makes spending time outdoors a lot more bearable in the summer heat. If you choose a tree that produces fruit or nuts then you’ll be able to use these items in the household which also brings down living costs. If a tree isn’t your cup of tea then starting a little garden could makes things a lot of fun. Fruits and vegetables grown in the home can be healthier and they help cut down on the costs of produce you have to buy in the store. They also allow you to teach kids how to grow their own food, which could be beneficial when they grow up. If taking care of plants isn’t on your list of things to do then perhaps plant some flowers in the yard. Even low maintenance flowers help with the environment and will make your home look more valuable.

3. Recycle
Implementing recycling in your home is a great step towards progress when it comes to the environment. Most homes will have assigned recycling bins for as assortment of items to be disposed of. This is great for all of your school or work papers, milk jugs and other plastic, cardboard or paper items that your household uses on a daily basis. Of course, most locations will also allow you to bring in some plastics, glass and metals with a refund value. This is a great way to get back the extra CRV money that some locations charge on items like these, which can go back into the household. Of course, recycling doesn’t just mean dealing with the basics. A lot of the electronics we throw in the trash can also be recycled. Look around for places that accept printer cartridges, batteries, computer, discs and anything else you think may be recyclable.

4. Skip Water Bottles
Many of us believe that water bottles can be recycled so we use them every day and put them in the bin expecting them to be turned into something else. The fact of the matter is, a lot of the time, most of the bottle isn’t even recycled. So, lots of these bottles end up in a landfill adding even more pollution to the planet. The worst thing is, they take forever to break down, so the landfills keep piling up. So, instead of picking up that convenient package of water bottles at the grocery store, you may want to look for a more environmentally friendly way to keep your family supplied with fresh water. One simple way is to add a filter to all of your home’s faucets. These don’t cost much and will give everyone drinkable water whenever they turn on the tap. Another way is to use gallon jugs to purchase water from water stores. As soon as you begin using one of these methods you’ll quickly realize how much money you’re saving as well as how little you’re wasting each month.

5. Don’t Toss Out Food
We tend to waste so much in our households. From leftovers at dinner to purchasing items we just don’t like. A lot of food ends up in our garbage which isn’t great for the environment or our budgets. A lot goes into producing food so every time it goes to waste it is like slapping Mother Earth in the face. Instead of simply packing up leftovers and expecting the family to enjoy them again you may want to try turning them into something new and exciting. Create on the go frittatas with vegetables leftover from dinner. There’s lot of recipes online so have fun discovering new things. If you’re a fan of juicing then use the pulp to help you out in the kitchen. For instance, vegetable pulp can be used as a broth for most soups and fruit pulp is great for giving baked goods a sweeter kick. If the items have gone bad in the fridge or aren’t something your family will eat or that you can give to someone needy then start up a compost to help with your garden or a community garden.

6. Go Paperless
It seems like every day people get lots of mail that could easily be handled online. From bank statements to bills, there’s an option for most of this paperwork to be emailed to you each month. In most cases you can call and ask for this option, but many businesses will also have the option on their website. A lot of stores have also began to email receipts to their returning customers, which helps cut down on the paper wasted from each transaction you make. Although it may not save you a whole lot of money to use this option, it will save on the amount of paper shredding and recycling you must do as well as how much damage you do to the plant. Of course, not all of our paper mail and receipts are our choice. Credit card companies are always sending out new offers which waste an extraordinary amount of paper each year. One way to help cut down on this is to get on the website and take your name off of their mailing list. It may take a month or two to kick in, but once it does, checking your mail may not be quite as frustrating. In the household you should think about using less paper products as well, such as paper plates and paper towels, which shouldn’t be too difficult of a change.

7. No Meat Monday
Recently, a Meatless Monday movement was created to help cut down on the carbon footprint people are currently leaving behind. The movement calls for families to give up eating meat one day out of the week. It doesn’t have to be Monday, nor does it have to be just one day out of the week. It does, however have to be at least once a week. By getting every household to do this we will be removing the same amount of pollution from the planet as we would by removing millions of cars, which is a little extraordinary. Of course, cutting out meat from just one meal can also help you save some money as the meat component of a meal is usually more expensive. After seeing the savings and possible health benefits you may want to cut down meat from one day to two. There’s a lot of meatless recipes online to try out too and whole websites dedicated to making the transition easy for anyone willing to try!

8. Energy Efficient Upgrades
If you have some spare cash to part with then it may be time to upgrade some of your home’s appliances to energy efficient. If you’re not sure where to start then consider the items in your home that get used the most. For instance, the refrigerator is constantly running so it may be a great place to start. Other household items you can buy that are energy efficient are washers and dryers. Electronics are also a great place to start when it comes to the upgrades, especially televisions and laptops that may be used more often. These items are a great way to treat yourself during Earth Day because they cut down on electricity substantially, which means lower bills for you and a smaller carbon footprint too.

9. Keep It Local
When you decide to shop, try to keep local as much as you possibly can. Farmer’s Markets are great places to go for food shopping and will allow you to enjoy some amazing fruits and vegetables that aren’t filled with pesticides nor are they overpriced. Purchasing locally helps remove all of the transportation fees that are always tacked on to food so you get a better deal each time you go shopping. Shopping locally isn’t just about your budget though, even though that’s a pretty awesome incentive. It also helps keep your local economy going strong which benefits your community. With a strong local economy comes even more savings for you.

10. Thrift Stores
One of the easiest things you can do to cut down on spending and save the environment is to actually do some shopping! Thrift store shopping is a great way to cut down on unnecessary manufacturing while also keeping your clothing budget down. You can also find some of the necessities at thrift stores like items for the kitchen. Toys, books, movies and some electronics are also available here which can really change the way you enjoy your free time without costing you a fortune. The best things is, the money you give to thrift stores goes for a good cause so all of your shopping does a world of good. Of course, the thrift store works both ways. Where you can purchase items, you can also donate items which goes to help those around you. Donating items isn’t just a great way to give to a charity but it can also offer you tax deductions at the end of the year. Of course, giving up some of the clutter in your home to someone who can use it is also a great incentive. This helps cut down on the amount in landfills too as throwing away old clothes and other item adds to the waste that is causing immense damage to the planet.

Earth Day can be a great time to teach your family great ways to have fun and save the environment. With a few cheap adjustments to your life, even your green living can help make your budget flourish all the more. So, this Earth Day, make an extraordinary plan to help your family understand the importance of the holiday while saving money.

Chances are, you probably have quite a bit of stuff laying around that doesn’t exactly serve a purpose. May it be the item was broken quite some time ago or you just don’t like the way it looks anymore; these items tend to pile up in our storage areas. Often, we even replace them when we find something new and shinier even if we don’t get all of the value out of our older item. This doesn’t have to be the case! In fact, you can take all of those items and give them a little update to fit the needs of your home now. You’ll find you save a lot of money this way because you won’t feel the urge to go out and shop for new items. Not to mention, many of the refurbishing crafts will cost you little to nothing!

1. Furniture
Furniture tends to last in the home a lot longer than most things, which is why it’s easy to get attached to some items. Just because an item is broken doesn’t mean you have to toss it out though, so if you do particularly love a piece upscale it when you have a chance! For instance, chairs are one of the best examples since you can do so much with them! One great idea is to take a chair that has a broken leg and transform it into a swing. This is very kid friendly and you can place it just about anywhere. A broken chair can also be used to create a bench, especially if you have multiple chairs looking for a special upgrade. You may also wanted to pull the backs off of a slatted chair to use it as a hanger. These are perfect for scarves and belts. Tables are also easy to upscale. For instance, you can easily cut down the legs of a beat up table for children to use as a play table. You may also want to cut a long table in half to create smaller corner desks. Of course, you could always sand down damage and refinish it as a new dining table or use it has a ping pong table! Finally, you can remove the springs from a broken mattress and use the core as a display for jewelry, art or notes. Also, old suitcases can be used as tables, filing bins and even a medicine cabinet!

2. Clothes
Sometimes, we just can’t bear to part with the band shirts or jeans that we wore in freshman year. Although they may be ratty, old and long out of fashion they hold our hearts and seeing them in the trash or headed for donation is pretty heartbreaking. There’s an easy solution though. Try taking those old t-shirts (or any fabric) and turning them into a blanket or pillow. Some of the tasks require some skills on the sewing machine, but there’s many DIY blankets that require no sewing at all! The rest of the shirt can be used as a rag or a cute bracelet or headband! You can also take old jeans and cut them up for shorts or to use as razor sharpeners. A few swipes up and down after each use can make your blades last longer, thus bringing you even more savings.

3. Kitchen Supplies
A lot of your old kitchen supplies such as, broken plates, tea cups and silverware to begin with, can be transformed into works of art or something amazing for the garden. For instance, broken plates or bowls can be used as identifiers in the garden which will help you keep your crops straight. Bowls and glasses can also be used as indoor or outdoor planters which will definitely come in handy. Tea cups, saucers and bowls can be strung up and used as quaint bird feeders or a cute art piece. Items that are too broken to use can be salvaged into mosaic art projects which will look great in or out of the home. Finally, you can use silverware to make beautiful wind chimes that will add a soothing touch to your porch. These items can also be transformed into jewelry with the proper tools and tutorials!

4. Jewelry
Although we like to think we’ll always want to wear something when we buy it, it isn’t realistic. If you keep up with fashion trends then you probably have a box filled with items that aren’t exactly the style anymore. Sure, you can give these pieces to donation or try to sell them all, but there’s a lot of other cooler things you can do too! You can easily turn them into other pieces of jewelry. Simply take them apart and place them together for a more fashionable look you can be proud to call your own. You can also use them as hair accessories by gluing pieces to bobby pins, barrettes and headbands. Each of the jewelry pieces can also be used as a work of art that makes the home look amazing. For example, you can create a beaded chandelier or mobile that will instantly gain attention in your home! These items can also be glued to a magnet for your message board or refrigerator. If you don’t want to keep the items personally then they make great gifts!

5. Art Supplies
With kids in the home it’s hard not to have broken crayons all over the place. Art supplies tend to break quickly, so we end up buying more which just adds to the collection. Rather than going out and adding to the vicious cycle, grab your crayons and melt them into one. You can do this based on color or you can even work with layers. You can even store the new crayons in old lipstick or glue stick containers for an easy way to make arts and crafts even more fun, frugal and recycled. To add some fun to the new crayons, melt them into cookie cutters for fun shapes! You may also want to look for old dried out markers. Simply place them in some water and you’ll instantly get some fun water colors for your children to play with. Better yet, this is a whole lot easier to clean off tables and even carpet!

6. Shoes
Worn out shoes are another major thing that seems to take up space in our closets. It’s pretty easy to come up with an excuse to buy new shoes, but there are some ways to upcycle some of your more worn out pieces. For instance, if you have an old pair of slip-ons then it’s easy enough to remove some of the worn out fabric and create a cozy pair of sandals that may offer more support than any pair you may buy! Flip flops are easy to upcycle too! Simply remove the broken area from the sole of the shoe and replace it with an old braided t-shirt or other item. This is easier than it sounds and it’ll be a lot more comfortable than a lot of flip flop brands.

7. Decor Items
A lot of our decor items can be used for other purposes too! Picture frames are a great example of this as they can be used for so many different things! For instance, you can easily remove the glass and string wire on the frame to hold your favorite pieces of jewelry, post cards or photographs. This is perfect for dorm rooms especially as the frame won’t take up as much room as other storage devices. You can also use the picture frame as a nice service tray. Simply find something strong to use as a back and you’re good to go! If you happen to come across a broken guitar then this could easily be altered and turned into a shelf for some of your lighter decorative pieces. Finally, an old globe can be used for a variety of things. Try cutting it in half to use as a fun light in a child’s bedroom or in a study. You can also flip it over to use as a bowl or planter.

8. Exterior Goods
There’s a lot you can do with the items from outside that may just be sitting around rusting. A rake, for instance, can be hung on the home and used to hold some of your gardening supplies. Of course, you’ll probably want to stick with a metal rake for this task as plastic grows brittle over time and may not hold up your items anyway. Broken flowerpots can also be used as identifiers for your garden using a marker or paint. An old ladder, metal or wooden, looks great as a bookshelf. You can alter these many ways so if you’re low on creative ideas then browse online to see all of the incredible ideas. If you have recently replaced your bike tire or you have an old bike you no longer use then there’s a whole lot you can do with a wheel. For starters, you can use it to hang pots and pans from the ceiling! You can also make a cute custom mobile for the nursery. Finally, if you love spending some time crafting, you can make a large dreamcatcher that everyone will love to marvel at. Another great item to use is an old tennis racket which can be turned into a mirror or picture frame. Old tools can also be bent and used as hooks for hanging up coats and umbrellas.

9. Entertainment
A lot of homes are still filled with vinyl records, CDs and DVDs! Although these items are great to have, sometimes they are too scratched to enjoy or we just don’t use them anymore. Instead of tossing them out you may want to see if you can make something out of them. For instance, vinyl records look amazing on a game/bar room wall. Discs also make great additions to the walls or ceiling of a teenager’s room, especially if the shiny side isn’t too damaged. Finally, if you still have disc holders then change them into a cord holder. You’ll get a lot less tangles this way and they become much easier to store!

10. Recyclables
Even the items in your recycle bin can be upcycled. For starters, items like milk jugs, lotion bottles and other large or round containers can be used as storage or as a planter! Simply cut the plastic tops off and you’re ready to organize the entire home or enjoy some homegrown herbs! Toilet rolls are also a must save item! You can turn them into holders for your ear buds, charger cables and any other wires on your desk. Simply place to the toilet rolls in a box and you’re ready to keep your supplies tangle free! Drink holders are also a must keep! These items can easily be used to hold your household’s condiments (it especially makes getting them to the dinner table easier), crafting supplies and other dolls. Water bottles are perfect for holding dry goods, especially the larger bottles which you can mark for easy measuring! Old credit cards can be transformed into colorful guitar picks with just a few snips of your scissors. Finally, bottle caps can be turned into coasters, containers and even jewelry.

Finding old items around the house that aren’t being used are pretty common. However, what you do with the items doesn’t have to be. With these tips you should be able to turn your home into an upcycled work of art without putting a whole lot of money into the process. With all of these savings, plus the savings from shopping less, you’ll have a bigger budget to work with in no time!

You don’t have to be a mechanic to ensure your car is running smoothly! In fact, a lot of people skip out on some of the basic things you can do for your car because they believe they’re too hard to accomplish! There’s actually a lot you can do with your car to make sure it stays on track though, which helps you rake in the savings every year that your car doesn’t have to pay a visit to the shop. Although some things are out of our control, you’ll be delighted to know that preventive care goes a very long way and doesn’t cost you a lot of money to do! So, stop stressing over mechanic bills and try out these ten tips to make your car even better!

1. Change Your Oil
This is one of the top things on the list and should be done every 3 months at the least! It’s actually not hard to do, so don’t work yourself up before trying it out. The first thing you should do is learn how to check your oil. This is one of the easiest things to do and there’s lots of tutorials online. If you’re ready for an oil change then stop by a department or auto shop, that offers great prices, and pick up what you need. If you’re not sure then your manual will let you know, but you can also ask someone in the store for a little assistance. Once you have your oil then look online for a tutorial on how to do it. It may be better to watch a tutorial and print one out so you have step by step procedures to get the job done. However, if you’re still feeling uncomfortable then look for a good deal in your penny saver or online and let them do the job with the oil you’ve already purchased. Make sure not to fall into any sales traps here though as many oil changing businesses will try to offer you special services you probably won’t need. Keeping your oil changed will save you thousands, so make sure to set reminders when you can!

2. Watch Your Lighting
When it comes to your car’s lights, they’re actually one of the best safety elements of the car. So, it’s important to maintain them as much as you possibly can. Try to check to make sure your brake lights, headlights and blinkers are working once a month. You may need a little help doing this, but it’ll be worth the effort knowing you can signal and alert other drivers of your presence. As soon as you notice your light is fading make sure to replace the bulbs. It’s always nice to have replacements in the car, but if you don’t they’re very cheap to buy. Changing the bulbs don’t take up a lot of your time anyway so you can easily do it after work or before a trip on the weekend. Simply by keeping your lighting up to date you’ll keep your car safer and you’ll avoid some very pricey tickets.

3. Clean Inside
You may not believe it, but keeping your car clean can actually help you save a bit of money! No one wants to sit in a dirty car in the first place, but sometimes it’s hard to make time to clean up. However, it may motivate you to know that keeping a clean car actually helps keep the value of your vehicle up. For instance, if you have pets or children in your car then you may find surprises every time you clean. This is especially true if kids bring snacks into the car as some sticky foods are impossible to fully clean up. Smokers may also end up with ash trapped in the carpets of the car. Keeping trash up is a great start for your car, but you’ll also want to wipe down the interior too. If you have leather seating then leather wipes are a must as they won’t just help keep things clean and fresh but they’ll also help with preventing the leather from cracking. Finally, adding floor mats to the front and back seats can cut down on damage substantially!

4. Know About Recalls
Dealing with a recall won’t just save you money but it could save your life. Cars get recalled every month, so don’t stress about it too much. Generally, when you register a vehicle, you will automatically receive notices when there has been a recall, so you don’t have to scour the internet every single day looking for something on your car. However, if you do feel the need to this, or you hear a rumor about your car then there’s a few sites that will give you trustworthy information. When you get the recall slip in the mail make sure to schedule an appointment with the designated dealer as soon as you can. Recalls don’t cost you a thing so you won’t need to do anything but show up at your scheduled appointment. Getting the recall taken care of as soon as possible will ensure no other damage can be done to the car, which will save you a whole lot of money in the long run.

5. Keep Records
This is probably one of the easiest things you can do when it comes to working on your car. All you have to do is put away receipts any time your car has work done on it. For instance, if you get a new set of tires then file away the receipt just in case one of the tires gets a flat before the warranty or guarantee is over. It’ll also help you know when you last bought tires so you can easily know when it’s time to shop again. Another great time to keep your receipts is when you’ve had mechanical work done on the car. This will help you ensure your mechanic did the job right, as you can return with the receipt for more work or a refund if they didn’t do what they were supposed to. Holding on to smog and registration receipts can also come in handy, especially when you’re looking for tax deductions.

6. Store It Properly
Believe it or not, but a lot of damage to your car can be done when it’s not even in motion. This is why storing your car properly can make a huge difference to the worth of it as well as the amount of times it’s going to end up in the shop. One of the best places to store your car is in the garage. Here, you won’t have to worry about weather damaging your vehicle in the slightest, nor will you have to worry about other out of your control damage. Of course, not everyone has access to a garage, so it you can try to find an area with a bit of covering like an awning. This will help stop hail from doing damage but will also add a little more protection from the sun. If you don’t have a good place to park and won’t be driving your car for a while then try to invest in a cover. This will help prevent outside damage, like fading from the sun or scratches from stray rocks on the road. If none of this is possible then stick with a simple UV protector for the front window shield. It’ll prevent the sun from damaging the inside of the car while also keeping your interior cooler.

7. Protect from Rain
Rain can be very dangerous especially when it is pouring outside. If you find yourself commuting in the rain often then you might want to invest in a product like Rain-X. This will help the rain slip off your windshield, windows and mirrors a lot faster so you won’t have to deal with blind spots or losing track of the way traffic is moving. Generally, the spray doesn’t cost a whole lot so you won’t go broke purchasing it. It will also stay on your glass surfaces for quite some time so you won’t need to keep applying to get the same benefits. With this little bit of help you should be able to prevent many accidents on the road while also feeling a bit more secure when driving in bad weather.

8. Keep Track of Parts
Much of your car can be worked on and replaced by you without professional help which should save you a whole lot of money. However, the only problem is many people don’t keep track of their car’s parts. If it helps, buy a small notebook for your car. You can write down everything you put in the car to ensure you’ll know exactly when you need to replace something. You can also add this into a memo on your phone and set reminders to keep you up to speed. One of the easier items to keep track of is spark plugs. These items need to be checked around every 30,000 miles, which isn’t very often. The plugs should be checked to ensure they’re not loose, but most will last you between 30k-60k miles! You should also make sure your windshield wipers are functioning well, but they should be replaced every 6 months or so depending on your climate. Brakes are another item that are easy to watch out for. They tend to last a longer period of time, but if you hear squeaking then it’s time for a new set. The air filter is also simple to change and can be done with your oil. Finally, keep track of the air and tread on your tires to ensure they last longer and to know when you’re in need of new ones.

9. Clean the Exterior
Washing your car offers a whole lot of benefits you may not have even thought about. For starters, it will give you a sense of pride for your vehicle, no matter how old it is. With a shiny car to get around in you’ll want to show it off, but you also may be more inclined to drive a bit safer. Also, keeping your car clean can help remove rocks that may do paint damage and it can keep the value of your car much higher. Adding a nice polish to the mix can keep your car looking good for much longer, but it can also help block out sun damage which will harm your car’s paint job. Try to be as frugal as possible with your wash by using buckets rather than leaving the hose running.

10. Ask For Help
If there’s something wrong with your car and you don’t know what it is then ask for help instead of ignoring the issue. If there actually is a problem it can get worse really fast which will cost you even more money. A lot of the time you can call up a shop and let them know what’s happening and they’d be happy to give you a guess. This can be very useful in deciding if you need to have a professional work on it or not. You can also look online to see if there’s something on the problem. For instance, by typing in basic symptoms of the problem your search engine may bring up a forum to help you out. Online tutorials may come in handy too. However, if you’re still lost, make sure to bring it to a shop so they can sort it out before it’s too late.

Having a car is a lot of responsibility so don’t let the problems pile up. With a little bit of DIY and some preventative measures, you should be able to get your car taken care of before you have to spend a whole lot more on it!

If you’ve ever wanted to pick up the guitar and roll out your favorite song, or can’t go a day without feeling the strings on your fingers, then April is the month for you. International Guitar Month is an exciting time for guitarist often opens up a world of savings to those looking for their first guitar or a special upgrade. There’s lot of ways you can save big on a guitar throughout the year though, so prepare for the frustrating calluses and brush up on your favorite songs because this International Guitar Month is not only going to open you up to savings, but will help you fall in love with your guitar even more!

1. Shop Around
One of the golden rules for guitar shopping is to make sure you check out a large variety of online and local stores. Many guitar stores don’t offer a standard price on many guitars as a lot of their stock is used. Of course, they usually have a couple new pieces in stock but sometimes even these instruments will range in price substantially. The best thing you can do is check out a few different locations to see which store offers the most value for your money. Although a store may seem to have a smaller price at first, you should ask what comes with the guitar purchase. Some stores will actually throw in accessories that can help get your started while others will offer the guitar alone. A lot of stores will simply state their item is on sale when the price is only matching that of other’s stores. So, be careful here as you can end up paying much more than the guitar’s worth if you’re not careful.

2. Buy Used
A lot of people have issues with buying used items, but a guitar is one of the best items to buy used. This is especially true if you’re just starting out on the guitar. Used guitars are already a bit broken in, you won’t feel like they’re the most fragile thing on the planet and they’re a whole lot cheaper. This is especially good if you’re not sure you, or the recipient of the guitar, is going to stick with the new hobby. Of course, if you’re a collector then you probably already know that a lot of guitars that are worth collecting are used. From brand names and models to celebrity status and autographs, many used guitars have a value much greater than money. This, in itself, should tell you that used guitars are totally worth the money and may even make you feel like more like a rockstar than you would with a shiny new one.

3. Try It Out
It may feel weird, but before you purchase a guitar you should hook it up to an amp and take it for a ride. Some stores may act weird when you ask to do this, but you wouldn’t leave a car lot without a test drive, right? The same can be said for guitars. Some stores will ask you to do this before you make the purchase anyway, but if you get attitude from a salesperson when you ask to hear a guitar’s sound then it’s probably a bad sign. It doesn’t matter if you’re buying something new or used as the sound of a guitar can be totally off even if it appears to be find in the store. Not to mention, you want to get the feeling of a guitar before you buy it. Like clothes shopping, some guitars are a much better fit than others, so buying on style alone can leave you coming back in for a return. Trying out the item is especially important if you’re purchasing an “as is” item, so definitely don’t take no for an answer here!

4. Negotiate
If you’re not going to a big chain store, then your negotiation skills may be one way to help you save some big time money on your new purchase. Again, like purchasing a car, some of the local mom and pop stores may actually welcome some negotiation skills. Of course, this doesn’t mean you should go into any shop without prior knowledge of a guitar. Do some research before you decide to make a purchase so you know what the guitar should be worth in various types of conditions. It may also help if you bring your smartphone along for the shopping trip so you can readily look up information and show it to the clerk to help aid your case. With any luck, you’ll be able to knock a few dollars off the price of a used guitar or you’ll end up getting a few accessories added on to the purchase at no extra cost. Remember to keep polite about the transaction though and it may help your case to return as a regular customer whenever you need guitar supplies.

5. Bundle
One of the best ways to begin the hobby is to actually look for a bundle set. These sets can be found both online and locally so you shouldn’t have to look too hard to find one. The average bundle set comes with a guitar and an amp which is pretty much everything you need to get started. However, there are also bundle sets that come with the basics as well as picks, a guitar case and strap, tuner and some basic sheet music. The more you look around, the better the deal you’ll probably find so don’t leave any stones unturned. You can buy bundles for new or used equipment too, which will change the price tag of the set substantially. Generally speaking, a new set shouldn’t cost you over $150, so factor this in when you’re looking at a used set to ensure you’re getting your money’s worth. You should also consider if each of the items in the set are used, as it may be more beneficial to buy a new amp with a used guitar.

6. Strings
Your guitar strings can make or break the way your guitar sounds, not to mention how your fingers feel. Although they’re usually not terribly priced, when you’re starting out you’re probably going to go through a lot more strings. There’s a few tricks that can help you save in this department though. For starters, look around and see if you can find bulk strings to help prevent you from having to shop more and to ensure you’ll always have a backup when a string breaks. When you’re just starting out then you may want to keep to purchasing cheaper strings. They’re going to break more often and may even snap while you’re learning to restring your guitar. So, quality isn’t always a priority. However, when you start to get the hang of things you may want to start finding a higher quality brand that you enjoy. When shopping for strings make sure they come in an air tight wrapper. Strings that are in a simple container actually begin to age on the shelf, thus you won’t get as much life out of them. Air tight strings maintain their newness so when you pull them out of the container it will seem as if they were just made. You may also want to consider boiling your strings to help them last even longer.

7. Online Lessons
Part of having a guitar is taking lessons to learn how to play, right? A lot of people will spend a small fortune when they finally locate a guitar teacher that has open slots for lessons. This can be a pretty time consuming activity and a lot of guitar teachers are in high demand so they can raise their prices to suit their needs. Rather than even bothering with this aspect of learning, you can easily turn to your computer or tablet for lessons that are absolutely free. Sure, you won’t get the feedback of the teacher, but you’ll learn the basics and will eventually be able to alter your technique to ensure you sound like a skilled player. If you’re still craving feedback from a teacher then you may want to browse online to see if anyone is offering online lessons. Some music sites will allow freelance teachers to offer lessons for a low price. You will probably end up conducting your lesson online via webcam, but it will be more affordable than some music teachers in your area.

8. Coupons
Believe it or not, but there’s a whole lot of coupons for guitars just waiting to be used. Major chain music stores put out a lot of coupons each year for their selection of guitars, but you may have to look online to find these coupons. Even local stores offer coupons, so check your local ads or call the store to see if there’s any available for you. These coupons usually take off a fair amount on some purchases, including that of the guitar and amp. They will also help you afford sheet music and accessories for your guitar. Of course, coupons for purchasing the guitar aren’t the only ones out there. If you search on social media pages you may be able to find some for guitar lessons. This is especially great if you know a group looking to learn how to play or you have more than one or two people in the family wanting to learn. You should also look for coupons for repairs as these are common too and can come in handy if you’re clumsy or don’t know how to re-string your guitar yet.

9. DIY Repairs
Taking your guitar in to get repaired can be an out of this world cost, especially if you’re not sure what’s wrong with it. Although, finding a great repair person is always a bit of weight off your chest, some issues can easily be corrected in your home. Before you decide to spend money on repairs for your guitar you may want to look online to see if there’s any tutorials to help your specific problem. Usually, someone on the World Wide Web has not only come up with an easy solution but has also posted it online for free. Thus, you can easily fix up your guitar with a few minutes and a little bit of streaming. If you’re not exactly sure what’s wrong with you guitar then you still shouldn’t stress out. Search engines are great because they can pretty much find information that is custom to your needs if you know how to search correctly. With a few keywords you may find out your guitar’s problem and the solution for it at no cost to you. If not, you can always join some guitar forums to see if anyone lurking on the page can help you out. Usually people are more than willing to lend a helping hand.

10. Research
One of the key components to saving money on your new guitar is actually doing a bit of research. You shouldn’t walk into a store willing to buy anything that meets your eye. Rather, try to learn more about brands and models before you take the leap. This won’t just help you gauge the price tag that should be associated with your guitar, but will also ensure you know general problems it may have as well as how to maintain it. A little research may also help you discover if you really want to play the acoustic guitar or the electric, which could lead to some major savings!

Purchasing a guitar isn’t light shopping so it’s important to know a few tricks to help you save some money. These ten topics should help you know more about guitars and ensure you find the savings you deserve. After all, what better way to celebrate International Guitar Month than to save lots of money on a new one!

April is a month that sees a lot more spending than most. Between entertaining the family during spring break and Easter holidays to spring cleaning and stocking up on the last of winter’s produce. It’s no doubt that saving in April does take a bit more work than the other spring months. However, there are some items you may want to spend some money on during this month! Each month a select few items make their way to the sales, so you can save big on items you actually do need around the home. So, if you can, you may want to stop by your local stores to check out some of these items before the prices sky rocket again!

1. Sneakers
Although a lot of people have already started working on the getting fit New Year’s resolution, April is the month to invest in the sneakers that can help further your physical fitness. With the birds chirping and weather heating up to a beautiful mild level, a lot of people will take to the outdoors to get their workouts. This means, they’re going to need a good pair of shoes to do so! Luckily, you should see your favorite sneaker brands taking a cut in price during this time, which should allow you to stock up on a pair or two to get you through the long months of summer and autumn runs. Of course, workout sneakers aren’t the only items on sale. You may want to take this time to stock up on your kid’s sneakers too. They’ll need them for the rest of the school year and for running and playing in the summer. Children’s athletic shoes should be on sale too, just in time for soccer and baseball season!

2. Cruises
While most people are planning their beach inspired spring break vacation, you should take advantage of the discounts cruise lines are offering. Generally, cruise lines want you to book well in advance, so it makes sense that they’d go on sale in the spring time in order to lure in summer time customers. There’s a wide variety of cruise lines available to you so make sure to shop around so you get exactly what you want for the price you can afford. One of the key things to look for here is package deals as many cruise lines offer these to give customers even more savings. Many include food and entertainment packages which will come in handy if you don’t want to worry about paying extra money while you’re on your vacation. Lots of websites will have deals on cruise lines too, so talk to your travel agent or do some shopping around to make sure you find a perfect match because you won’t see prices like this again until next spring!

3. Kitchenware
If your kitchen is looking a bit bare or could use a few upgrades then April is the time to do it. Most small kitchen accessories as well as pots, pans and bakeware go on sale during the month of April. This is a great time to finally get the smoothie blender you’ve been hoping would get you through the summer as well as any supplies you may be missing for your favorite recipes. Spring is generally when the majority of weddings happen, not to mention graduations which makes these kitchen sales an extra bonus for anyone looking for gifts. Typically high school graduates as well as newlyweds need these types of items to make their home a bit more comfortable as they start out fresh. Better yet, you can easily find many items like baking sheets and cooking utensils at a price that won’t even make you blink. Thus, allowing you an amazing gift for a price that won’t make a dent in your budget.

4. Summer Clothes
I know, we haven’t really embraced spring time yet as, until recently, it’s still been quite chilly in many areas. However, you may want to look ahead of the spring clothing aisle and head straight for the summer display. Summer clothes hit a low in the month of April, which is a great way for you to stock up on clothing for the whole family so you can be ready for the heatwave. Although most clothes that will be on sale are classed as summer clothes they can actually be worn from spring until the autumn, so don’t fret that you’re wasting money or spending too much on the deals. The bright colors seem to flow through the seasons so you won’t have to worry about having to buy all new stuff for spring and autumn. If you’re really looking to get ahead and you’ve found some great deals, then you might want to get a jump start on school shopping too. Choose items a size or two larger to provide for growing room and then put them away until school picks back up again! It’ll save you money when you’re already having to spend a lot on school supplies. Not to mention, you’ll probably find some better deals, especially after Easter.

5. Vacuum Cleaners
Spring cleaning meets allergy season which also means you’re going to need a heavy duty vacuum cleaner to get the job done! You’re in luck because April is known to be the month that vacuum cleaners take a dive in price. This happens for a number of reasons, but largely it’s companies wanting to appeal to spring cleaning! Although most vacuum cleaners will be on sale during this time you may want to plan on splurging. This way you can get the vacuum you want at the price of one that might not be as efficient. Choosing a high quality vacuum cleaner will also save you money in the long run, especially if it’s bagless. By spending the extra money, you may not have to shop for vacuum cleaners next April when they go one sale again. In fact, a good vacuum cleaner should last you up to 10 years which will definitely ensure you get your money’s worth out of it!

6. Jewelry
Valentine’s Day is well behind us but engagement season is here to stay! Thus, jewelry prices aren’t going to be quite as high as they usually are. This can be great if you’re looking to find a few new pieces to add to your collection, but make sure to shop around to ensure your deal is actually a deal and not a company claiming the price is a mark down. Graduates will soon be walking across the stage to get their diploma so you may want to consider purchasing something special for your graduate. Of course, one of the biggest holidays for jewelry is right around the corner. Mother’s Day comes in May and if you tend to procrastination then this year may be your time to shine. Get mom something nice during April that will make her feel special on her big day. We also must consider bride’s in this equation. From April until mid-autumn, weddings are going to be going on all of the time! So, if you’re planning on walking down the aisle any time soon then now is the time to get your accessories!

7. Grills
It may seem like summer is years away, but it’s really not. Try to think a bit ahead of the game and check out some grills this April! They usually make a price drop during this month so stores can get rid of old stock or simply show off their new stock. Buying a grill during April tends to be a pretty wise decision though. For instance, spring time weather is a little unpredictable, right? So, one day it may be snowing and the next may be entirely sunny. Well, what better way to keep your house cooler than to cook outside on the sunny days? Not to mention, grilling can be pretty cheap especially if you plan to have friends and family over. Try to find a grill that suits your needs when you go shopping. With the reduced prices you should be able to get something a bit fancier for the price you’d normally pay for something that’s pretty basic. Of course, make sure you’re getting something you’re going to use as overspending isn’t going to do you any financial favors.

8. Graduation Gifts
It’s probably pretty hard to grasp that soon a new batch of kids will be receiving their diplomas and heading off to college. This is especially true if it’s actually one of your children. So, you probably want to go all out and buy something special for their graduation gift. Don’t wait until their actual graduation to do this. You’re better off shopping for any and all graduation gifts in the month of April. For instance, mini-fridges, cooking supplies, lounging chairs and even school supplies will be on sale during this month. Thus, you can actually get the graduate in your life something that may actually get used from time to time!

9. Home Improvement Supplies
Well, if you’ve already made the rounds for your household, you’ve probably found several things that need repaired or upgraded. This isn’t even to mention all of the home improvement ideas you had while the weather was too bad to go out and do anything. Luckily, April is a great month for picking up anything and everything home improvement related. From lumber to tools you should be able to find some incredible deals at your local hardware or department store. You should also find plenty of kits, such as backyard playgrounds or treehouses, on sale too, which may ease the burden of some of your home improvement skills. This doesn’t mean you have to think entirely outside of the home. There’s plenty of items for indoor repair and improvement on sale too. For instance, it may be a great time to tackle your plumbing problem or to throw on a new coat of paint in the kids’ rooms! Finally, you should also shop the gardening center to get an early start on the supplies your flower bed and other landscaping projects may need.

10. Electronics
A lot of people are getting tax returns back and the deadline for tax season is rapidly approaching. That being said, it’s time for electronics to make their way onto the sales list for April. This is a great time to upgrade your television or add a new one to the home. If you have kids that play videogames this may be a priority before the long summer days approach. Other great items to buy during this season is laptops, tablets and phones. This is especially convenient as recent graduates will need a good laptop and/or tablet to help them work their way through homework, research and essays. You may also want to consider adding a new laptop to the home to help you with work. There’s also been quite a few new phones on the market lately, so if you’re looking to try something new, or your contract is up, then seeking out a new phone is a must in April. You don’t have to think about traditional electronics here either. For instance, remote control cars and helicopters are perfect finds to keep kids busy for a reduced price. Also, radios and other electronic emergency equipment may be a good buy if you’re living somewhere that often has extreme weather.

April may be filled with expenditures, but it’s also a great time to save on some of the items the household needs the most. With these ten tips you should be able to stock up on all of the items your home needs to run happily and efficiently which will help you save even more money as you take on the challenges of the upcoming months.

Laundry seems to be a never ending cycle that keeps you on your feet each and every day. Although it’s pretty easy to come to terms that you’re always going to have laundry to do, it might not be as easy to deal with the constant money it forces you to spend. However, if you’re looking to cut down on house expenses, this is one of the best elements to be frugal with. There’s a lot of tips and tricks that can make your laundry experience cost you next to nothing which will give back to the household without forcing you to sacrifice too much extra time!

1. DIY Detergent
When it comes to laundry it’s never good to feel that empty container of laundry detergent. Supplies to keep your clothes fresh and clean aren’t always on the cheap side, especially if you’re on a budget. Often, even generic brands can cost too much or they leave your clothes covered with detergent residue days after washing them. Keeping up with detergent and softener can be too much to ask at times, so your clothes suffer and end up feeling uncomfortable or less than perfect when you wear them out. This could lead to you wanting or needing to purchase new clothes, which means throwing even more money down the tube. One of the best things you can do is create your own laundry detergent. There’s a lot of copycat recipes online as well as those you may enjoy better than the store bought stuff. You can even create your own special scents using different oils, which may even have people asking for your laundry secret. Another great option is to use vinegar rather than softener. If you only use a small amount it won’t leave a lingering scent, plus it’ll get your clothes cleaner and will make them feel soft to the touch!

2. Use Cold Water
It’s a common idea that hot water is the best way to get things clean. In some senses this is true, but when it comes to your laundry you’re usually safe running your clothing on the cold cycle. The cold cycle will actually help you out in a lot of different ways. For instance, this cycle uses less power as it doesn’t have to process hot or warm water, thus enabling it to get the job done with water that’s readily available. The cold cycle also won’t cause your clothing to shrink like the hot cycle will which means your favorite items can be worn again and again. Finally, washing colored items in cold helps preserve the color so they’ll look newer much longer. Also, soaking stained clothing in cold water can help remove the stain before it sticks to the fabric. This trick alone will save you lots of money on clothes, special treatments and the number of times you have to run an article of clothing before it looks clean!

3. Larger Loads
Many people don’t like to put a lot of clothing into the washer or dryer so they spend all day working on half loads of laundry. This if often because people believe their clothing may not get clean if they’re putting too many items in the washer at once. Most of the time, this isn’t the case. Of course, there are limits and usually your washer will let you know when a load is simply too large to process but a lot of the time you’re good to go. Larger loads of laundry can help you save money in a variety of different ways. For instance, the less loads of laundry you end up doing, the less power you’re going to save so your bill won’t be quite as high. You may not believe it, but you’ll also save on laundry detergent when you choose to use larger loads. Sure, you will need to use more soap, but this extra amount won’t add up to the amount you’ll end up putting in each separate load. When the clothes are washed they may also take a little extra time in the dryer, but once again not as much as a separate load. In the long run, you’ll also save so much time using this technique that you won’t want to go back to your small loads of laundry ever again.

4. Home Remedies
A lot of people lose some of their favorite clothes because their expensive store bought stain remover isn’t doing the trick. This can mean wasting more money on clothes, which is great in theory but when you get your credit card statement in the mail you may not be singing the same tune. Rather than spend a fortune on getting rid of stains or replacing things ruined by them, do a little research and find some home remedies that will make your life amazing. If you’re having trouble getting blood out of something then soak it in cold water and hand soap. Is your child’s soccer uniform covered in grass stains that just won’t give in? Then use a simple combination of dish soap and hydrogen peroxide. If grease is a major problem in your household then try using chalk or baby powder to get rid of the problem. There’s an abundance of ways to get rid of the all too common yellow stain so you may want to look around to find one that suits ingredients you already have in the home. Another simple home remedy to cut out bleach is to wash with baking soda instead. Finally, cut down on static and your use of dryer sheets by using a tin foil ball. You can reuse it as many times as you want too!

5. Spot Treatments
Spending money at the dry cleaners is one way many people lose out a lot of money on their laundry. Some clothes just can’t be washed at home though and if they’re pricey you probably don’t want to run the risk in the first place. You don’t have to run your clothes to the dry cleaner every time you wear them though. Rather, use a simple spot treatment to get out any stains that may have happened during the day. Usually simple water will help keep the clothes clean, but you can also look up the type of material to see if anything else is recommended. If you have a heavy coat or denim clothing then you may want to skip washing them as frequently. These items are meant to be worn more than once, so take a spot treatment to stains between washing. If the clothes seem to have an odor then use a spray to help freshen them up until the next time you wash them!

6. Laundry Bags
The sock monster seems to work 365 days a year, which can be a problem if you’re always having to buy socks. Socks aren’t the only items that end up going missing in your machines though, so take precautions using laundry bags. These can be bought just about anywhere or you can think out of the box and use your common household items as a laundry bag. Simply stick your smaller items in the bag and enjoy receiving them when the laundry is finished. This is a pretty helpful way to end the painstaking labor of sorting socks too, as if you put all similar socks together, it’ll be like folding straight from a grab bag! Another great thing about laundry bags is they’ll help prevent delicate clothing, like lingerie, from getting ripped in the washer or dryer which will also save you a pretty penny!

7. Shorter Cycles
Unless you’re washing some heavy duty items that haven’t been cleaned in years, you probably don’t need to wash your clothing on the heavy duty cycles. Aim to use the shortest cycle on the machine, especially if you’re only washing your clothing. This will cut down on the amount of energy and water you use each time you run a load which translates into more savings for you. Shorter loads don’t just apply to the washing machine though. Rather, you should definitely always use shorter cycles for your dryer too. This won’t just save you money, but it may prevent your clothes from shrinking. It may also keep some of your graphic t-shirts from getting messed up in the process of drying. If you’re worried about your clothes not getting dry enough then toss in a dry but fluffy towel into the mix. This will help soak up the extra moisture, thus allowing your clothes to get dry faster. Also, if you plan on doing some ironing then don’t dry the clothes all of the way. The leftover moisture will help make your job ironing faster.

8. Hang Clothes Out
Washing your clothes by hand may be a little much, especially if you have more than laundry to do during the day. However, letting Mother Nature dry your clothes for free won’t take more than a couple of minutes of your time. If you have a backyard then hang up a clothes lines and enjoy your energy saving dryer. It may take several hours for the clothes to dry, but you won’t have to lift a finger during that time nor will you have to pay for all of the energy a machine would use. If you don’t have a yard then string up clothes on the balcony or create a clothesline over your bathtub. If you leave the fan in the bathroom on it will also help get your clothes dry faster. Although this is a great option, you may want to keep an eye on the weather forecast as high winds or rain may force you to rewash your clothing.

9. Energy Efficient Machines
Of course, if convenience is more your cup of tea then energy efficient machines are right up your alley. Although these machines were once expensive, they are rapidly becoming very affordable which is good news for consumers looking to save money on every day bills. These machine efficiently clean your clothing using less energy, water and laundry detergents which means you save all across the board. Before you know it, the savings alone will have paid for these machines. The best thing is, a lot of the time you may even be able to find a tax deduction if you’ve purchased an energy efficient washer or dryer during the tax year!

10. Keep Machines Clean
Believe it or not, but keeping a machine clean is your ticket to more savings. One of the most common things to clean is the lent trap. This alone will cut down on the energy you use every time you dry your clothing. Of course, there’s more than just the lent trap that needs to be cleaned. Throughout the year you should check the hook ups to both the washer and the dryer to make sure they are clean. This is especially important for the dryer as it could cause a fire if too much lent builds up. It’s very easy to do, but if you’re not sure where to start then you can easily look up a tutorial online. You should also clean inside of the washer. Sometimes clothing or other items that end up in the wash can get lodged inside which may cause damage. Some machines may even grow mildew which isn’t safe for your family. Clean machines are well running machines, so they should last longer if you take good care of them.

Laundry is a part of everyone’s life. There’s no getting around dirty clothes so you might as well learn the best way to save some money on cleaning them. With these simple tips you’ll find laundry isn’t as expensive or time consuming as you once thought it to be!

In just a few short weeks the Easter Bunny will be hopping down that bunny trail with treats for all the good boys and girls. This doesn’t mean it’s time to go into panic mode though! There’s still time to get your baskets together and looking great for the big day. Although Easter baskets can be a fun way to celebrate the holiday, they can also really add up in price which doesn’t do your budget any favors. With a few tricks you should be able to provide your children with a fun Easter Basket that doesn’t leave you in a bind when it comes to the rest of the holiday. So, get ready to capture some happy smiles, because these tricks will make your baskets the most frugal and fun yet!

1. Recycle Baskets
A lot of families will go out and buy a new Easter basket for their children each year. This can be one of the priciest things you can do, especially when you consider most children will want to hunt eggs until they’re 11 or 12. That’s up to 12 baskets you’ll have spent money on which really adds up in the long run. Rather than shopping for a new one each year try to hold onto one that each child can use year after year. You can spend a little extra on a sturdier basket, or you may even want to go all out and buy a customized one. Of course, you don’t even have to spend a lot of money on one if you don’t want to. For instance, a simple pail or basket from the dollar store can work wonders or you can weave your own. Either way, make the basket suit your child’s personality so it will become part of their holiday memories. They may even want to pass their basket down to their own children in the future!

2. Homemade Treats
When the Easter basket rush begins you may be tempted to buy expensive candy bars and chocolate bunnies to put in your child’s basket. Although this is pretty convenient, it may not be the most frugal way to celebrate the holiday. Rather than spending a lot on candy your children probably get treated with all year, try your hand at making your own holiday treats. For instance, basic sugar cookies can easily be shaped into bunnies and eggs and then decorated with colored icing. You can also make Rice Krispy treats shaped like eggs. These are great because you can fill them with candies and decorate them with colorful icing. If you really love the idea of chocolate bunnies in your child’s basket then simply use a bunny cookie cutter to create your own. All you have to do is whip up your favorite chocolate recipe then pour the mixture into the cookie cutter and let it cool in the refrigerator. When it’s finished you can decorate it to make it personal or simply place it in the basket. There’s a large variety of other treats you can make, but if you’re not feeling creative check online for ideas!

3. Buy Stuff They Need
It’s fairly common to stuff Easter baskets with items kids want, which is fine as long as you set a limit for yourself. However, there is another great option to help cut down on this type of spending. That is, fill the baskets with items the kids are actually going to need! School supplies are always a great buy, so look around and find colorful pencils, pens, notebooks, erasers and other items that seem to be on your must buy list anyway. A lot of stores will offer Easter themed items for school supplies which may add the perfect look for your basket. You may also want to consider personal hygiene items such as a new toothbrush, dental floss, toothpaste and soap. It may be a lot of fun to get creative with the soap by making your own. You can use Easter colors and use a cookie cutter or Easter mold to make it fit the theme. Finally, a pair of cute Easter socks or a new holiday T-shirt will also add a fun touch to your basket.

4. Shop Dollar Stores
When it comes to shopping for Easter you really can’t beat dollar store finds. There’s a lot of options to choose for in these stores and you usually won’t pay over a dollar for each item. One of the best things to buy here is bulk bags of candies. You can find little chocolate eggs and other Easter candies that can be split between your children’s baskets and your Easter eggs, which will cut down on spending. Plastic eggs are another great item to buy here so you’ll have enough eggs to fit in your child’s basket as well as extras for the Easter egg hunt later in the day. Small stuffed animals and other little filler toys and accessories are also great buys here as you can usually find plenty of toys that suit both boys and girls’ interests.

5. Homemade Coupons
One of the most frugal gift ideas is homemade coupons for the children. This will make things even more personal for your kids as you can create them to tailor to your child’s age and interests. For instance, for older children you may add in coupons allowing them 20 minutes extra of videogame or television time. Younger children may enjoy a coupon that ensures they’ll get to go to the park or stay at the park a bit longer than usual. Adding in a coupon that adds a sibling free date with mom and/or dad is another great option, especially if there has been a lot of sibling rivalry in the home lately. Another great choice for all ages is a coupon that promises the child their favorite meal. If you want to make the coupons even more fun than print them out and add an Easter Bunny official seal or use special handwriting to make it look as if the Easter Bunny has written them out just for your child.

6. Forget Easter Grass
Easter treats aren’t the only thing that empties your pockets. One of the worst things to spend your money on during this holiday is Easter Grass. Although it may not seem too expensive at first, once you buy enough to fill up 2 or 3 baskets your budget is going to take a slight hit. The bad thing about Easter grass it is almost impossible to save for the upcoming years. Once the kids make it outside to do their Easter egg hunt the grass slowly begins to disappear. Not to mention, if you have small children or pets then some of the grass may end up in their mouths which could do a lot of harm to the intestinal tract. Even if you don’t have pets, the grass that gets lost outdoors could be consumed by birds or stray animals which leads to even more problems. One solution for the grass is to take colored paper and shred it. This is easier to recycle and won’t end up making anyone sick if it doesn’t stay in your child’s Easter basket the entire day. Of course, if you’re planning a basket for a child that enjoys cheerleading then placing a pompom in the basket adds to the gift and will keep eggs from breaking.

7. Homemade Gifts
Easter basket gifts don’t have to cost you an arm and a leg. In fact, making gifts can actually be one of the best ways to fill your child’s basket. There’s a lot of exciting treats you can make for Easter. One that is great for all ages is homemade play dough. You can even add some color to make it more festive for the holiday. This requires basic ingredients you probably have sitting around the home. To suit the holiday, you can present the play dough into Easter eggs or find a cute Easter canister at your local dollar or thrift store. You may also want to look up recipes for homemade silly putty, bubbles and sidewalk chalk. Other homemade gifts are entertainment sets. For instance, you can buy some items in bulk and put them together to make a cute personalized set for each child. For instance, gardening sets are great for the holidays as are coloring or painting sets. These are all inexpensive to make too, especially if you have a printer than can print coloring sheets out! You may also want to get each child to work on a craft for their sibling. For instance, pet rocks (especially bunnies) are a great option, as are coloring pages with a special message. You can ask the Easter Bunny to pick up the items a week before Easter, so they can be placed in each child’s Easter basket!

8. Thrift Store Finds
You’ll be surprised as to how many amazing toys you can find at your local thrift stores. One of the best items to look for here is children’s books which add a nice touch to your child’s basket. Sometimes you may get lucky enough to find Easter books, but you’ll also be able to locate classic children’s stories. Toys are another great item to find here. Typically, most thrift stores have a bin of old kid’s meal toys that are perfect for fillers for the basket. Some stores may let you pick and choose while others will have the toys in a grab bag. If you’re on the hunt for a cheap Easter basket then this may also be the place to look!

9. Coupons
When it comes to saving for Easter, a coupon is the way to get some of your money back! Usually coupons for Easter will come out a few weeks early so make sure to keep an eye out in your local sales papers as well as online. You may also look for manufacturer’s coupons online if you have specific items you know you’ll need for the holiday. While you’re shopping, keep your eyes open as most stores will place coupons in the aisles or on the Easter treats themselves. These can save you up to a dollar on each item, so don’t miss out! You may also consider using coupons that aren’t Easter related in order to make Easter treats. For instance, a coupon for a plain white cake mix could be the start of a festive recipe at a fraction of the cost of the Easter themed item!

10. Shop Late
In order to make sure you spend less money next year, hit the stores as soon as Easter is over! Everything is going to go into the clearance bin so you can easily stock up. Some of the best items to get during this time are new baskets (if needed) as well as plastic eggs. These items are easy to store and are pretty much needed each and every year. You may also want to look for little toys as they may cost less than a dollar and will make great fillers for the upcoming years. Generally, you should be able to find little Easter bunnies, chicks and eggs in many forms and fashions. Stickers, stamps and other child friendly craft items should be a must have on the list too! Finally, items like cookie cutters and other molds are great to use for Easter projects that may help you fill up your child’s basket.

Creating the perfect Easter basket for your child doesn’t mean you have to go crazy with spending. There’s a lot of ways to enjoy making up your baskets that don’t involve spending too much. With these simple tips you should be well on your way to a basket that will make your child feel spectacular.

Passover is only a couple of weeks away, which means you may already be behind on shopping for the 8 day celebration. Don’t start stressing out though as there’s still plenty of time to get the savings you deserve for your holiday! Although many holiday items tend to skyrocket in price around this time of the year, there’s still a few ways you can ensure your meal won’t cost you a pretty penny. With a little shopping know how and discipline your Passover table will be filled with delicious items that will make the whole family enjoy the holiday even more! Better yet, each item on the table won’t force your family to go on a low cost diet for the rest of the month!

1. Shop Around
We all have our favorite market places, but when it comes to the holiday season you may want to break away from your routine and branch out to find the best prices. If you can, try to visit a few different stores and price items before you sit down and make a list of what you plan on preparing for your holiday. Of course, not everyone has time to do this and going from location to location may actually end up costing you too much in gas. So, if you have friends that also plan on celebrating then you can easily break the shopping up into sections. Each of you can take on a few stores in your area to see what store has the best prices. You can even break up the shopping to ensure that everyone gets what they need at the best possible prices. Of course, you can also take to apps to help find the same information. There are even apps that cater to kosher markets, so you can get everything done in mere minutes!

2. Bulk Shopping
When it comes to grocery shopping it’s no surprise that shopping in bulk can save you a whole lot of money. This is especially true when it comes to buying items like meat and flower. There’s no doubt that some of the items you’re going to need for your Passover meals will be better off bought in bulk, so take to your favorite wholesale store to get the best deal possible. If you’re not sure about spending extra on bulk prices then see if a few friends want to go in on the purchases too. You can split the cost between the group so that each of you actually save some money on the items you need to cook. These savings can go pretty far, especially when it comes to saving on the more expensive items on your list. With any luck, some of the items will actually carry over past the holidays so you’ll have less groceries to worry about when things go back to your normal routine.

3. Coupons
Shopping is always better when paired with coupons. Nothing says fun at the grocery store quite like saving a whole lot of money on items your household needs. Before you go shopping try to look in sales ads from your local stores as well as ads you may find on your favorite stores’ social media pages or websites. This should arm you with quite a few coupons to work with, especially when it comes to basic baking supplies and meat. Of course, if you’re looking for a lot of traditional Jewish and kosher foods then you may have to put a bit more work into it. Some manufacturers do offer coupons for their products but they’re not readily available to the general public. Simply look online to see if there’s any contact information you can find that will allow you to ask if there are any coupons available to you. Most companies will be happy to ship some coupons your way and, just for your efforts, you may begin receiving coupons from them regularly which means more savings for you!

4. From Scratch
It’s really tempting just to toss pre-made items into the basket in the grocery store. This is especially true when you know you’re going to be cooking for the holiday for the next eight or so days! Although the convenience of the pre-made or boxed foods sounds nice, you’ll save quite a bit of money by stepping away from these items entirely! Generally, when you add up the costs of ingredients you actually do save a lot of money when you make things from scratch. This is especially true when it comes to items you need to make in big batches. Although it may mean you’re going to spend more time working in the kitchen the savings will make you feel a whole lot better about the holiday. Not to mention, most of these pre-made foods are actually filled with additives that aren’t good for your family. These unnecessary ingredients don’t taste as good as naturally made food does either. So, you’ll be doing everyone a huge favor by skipping out on convenience and doing all of your cooking the old fashioned way!

5. Choose Menu Wisely
Just because it’s a holiday, doesn’t mean you have to go all out and purchase incredibly extravagant items. This can be very pricey and may leave you in a bind when the holiday is over. Luckily, with a little bit of editing to the menu you should be able to cut down some of the higher priced items and replace them with items that won’t cost you much at all. For instance, one of the easiest things to give up on is some of the higher priced salad dressings that are commonly used during the meals. You can quickly make up some of your own using basic ingredients. If you’re still looking for something similar to your pricier dressings then look online for copycat recipes as there will definitely be something online that can save you money. Cereals and meat dishes are another item to reconsider as the price tag per person will add up really fast. Instead, try using cheaper items such as eggs. You can do a lot of different things with them so they’ll suit your family for breakfast, lunch and dinner. You should also stick to produce that is in season. This will still provide you with delicious and fresh meals at a price that won’t make you cringe.

6. Learn Frugal Recipes
Planning a menu isn’t the only way to save money on your Passover meals. Knowing recipes that are delicious and frugal are a big part of the savings process. Although many Passover meals may seem expensive, you can easily find copycat recipes online that will help you cut out the high priced aspects of the meal. This may mean changing the flavor up a little bit but it’ll be worth it when your grocery bill doesn’t give you the cold sweats at night. There are also some recipes you can find online that are already incredibly frugal. These usually only take a few basic ingredients and if you spend some time practicing them they could be on their way to becoming a family favorite! Some of these recipes may even take you back to the roots of the holiday which will make your meal seem even more incredible!

7. Forget Your Usual Shopping List
Passover is going to span for eight full days, which means there’s no reason for you to shop for basic groceries during this period. This will actually save you a whole lot of money so you can enjoy the holiday without having to worry about having food money when the event is over. For instance, your family will be eating classic Passover dishes during this time, so there’s no reason to break out the Peanut butter and Jelly or to keep taco night enforced. Thus, foods you spend money on often won’t have to make it into your cart at all. The family will have to eat Passover meals and leftovers, thus ensuring no food has to go to waste. Another item to leave off of your shopping list is soda and luxury drinks. Your family can easily take a break from the sugary drinks during the holiday which will save you more money than you think!

8. Potluck
Remember, you don’t have to bear all of the work when it comes to Passover. In fact, one of the best ways to save money on your holiday is to host a potluck for your close friends and family. This will allow everyone to get together and enjoy the holiday even more as no one will have to spend a lot of money to enjoy their favorite Passover foods. You may want to ask guests to sign up for different foods so you don’t end up hosting a party with an abundance of one or two different dishes. Now, Passover is 8 days long so you may have to host a couple of events or you may want to go to another person’s Potluck event. This will still save you quite a bit of money though as you’ll always have leftovers to rely on during the days no one brings food or those in which you don’t visit another’s home! You may also be able to pick up a few secrets from an elder who has been cooking a certain dish for decades, which will make your future Passover celebrations amazing.

9. Avoid the Passover Section
Stores are great at marketing things for the holiday. They place food at eye level and mark up the prices so we feel like we don’t have any other option but to buy these certain foods. The trick is to avoid the holiday sections altogether though, especially during Passover as many stores don’t typically cater to these types of foods. Instead of shopping in this area try to look around for the foods in areas they’d typically be displayed. Usually, you’ll find the generic brands or cheaper items here which will help cut down on the price of your groceries. If you do have to go down the Passover section then keep your eyes low or high. Stores will put the cheaper items here as most people tend to go for items at their eye level. You should be able to get the same foods on these less popular shelves at a lower price.

10. Budget
One of the most important things you can do before shopping during a holiday is to set out a budget. Before you go shopping sit down and make a list of all the items you know you’re going to need for the meal. Then work with your finances to see how much you can actually spare for the meal. If you have a lot to spare then you may still want to cut your budget a bit short to see if you can save even more money. Before you step foot in the store make sure you have the budgeted money in the form of cash. This will help you stick to the budget, especially if you leave your plastic money at home. With only cash to check out with you’ll be really careful as to not get caught going over your budget in the checkout line. You’ll also be more aware of what you’re buying, its worth and whether or not you need it when you have less money on you!

Passover doesn’t have to be all about the money, especially if you’re planning a few big meals to celebrate. With these frugal tips you should be able to get the best possible deals on your food while ensuring your budget stays healthy. Before you know it, you’ll be enjoying an amazing feast with friends and family!

It’s official, Spring is here! With all the flowers bursting to life, amazing smells on the cool breeze and rainy mornings you’re probably walking on cloud nine, right? Well, okay, I guess I did leave out the part about the sneezing, itchy eyes and other misfortunes that the season brings along with it. If you spend your mornings waiting for the news to announce pollen counts in your area then you’re probably also wasting quite a bit of money to maintain your allergy dilemma. There are a few ways you can stop the sneezing in its tracks right away though and, luckily enough, it won’t cost you an arm and a leg. So put your wallet away and enjoy the season of life without carrying around extra tissues!

1. Consider Bedding
Believe it or not, but your bedding can contain a lot more allergens than you think, even if you do wash it all of the time. Dead cells as well as dust mites don’t just get into your sheets, pillows and blankets, but they also find a home in your mattress. This means you can still have an allergen attack after you put on fresh linens. One of the best ways to remedy this problem is to vacuum your bed often during the allergen season. This will help your mattress last longer to begin with, but will also ensure you get most of the problem taken care of before you put your sheets back on. You should still wash your bedding often during this season, especially your sheets, as this can cut down on allergens substantially. You may want to consider finding a milder soap though as some soaps can be more irritating to the nasal passage when you’re already fighting off allergens in the air. Another way to help out the problem is to buy a mattress and pillow covers. If you can find antimicrobial covers at a great price then you’ll be one step ahead of your allergies throughout the year!

2. Mold Inspection
Although dust and pollen are some of the more common allergens during spring time, mold is a pretty big culprit that can cause more damage than you think. If you can, hire someone to come look at the interior and exterior of your home to see if mold is becoming an issue. There are some companies that offer these services for free or a low cost so look online and see where you can find these services. You may also want to contact your insurance company to see if they can offer you a deal or at least cover the majority of the cost. If you can’t afford to do this then buy a home kit. It will give you a basic idea of what needs to be done and the actions you’ll need to take to get rid of the mold for good. You can buy products in stores to get rid of mold, but there’s also a lot of home remedies that are better for the environment and your budget. For instance, you can use vinegar, vodka or hydrogen peroxide to take care of most molds you’d find in the home.

3. Carpeting
You should pretty much consider your carpets to be a club house for allergens. Carpeting is nice and all, especially when it comes to regulating home temperature, but during the spring it’s an allergy attack waiting to happen. One of the best things you can do is vacuum it daily, but sometimes this won’t even help reduce the allergies in your home. If you have carpeting that is really old or in front of doorways then this could be a huge problem for your sneezing attacks. You may want to consider removing this carpet for good or at least replacing it. Old carpet has years of allergens just waiting to mess up your day while carpets in front of doorways easily latch on to the allergens when people walk in or outside. If you love your carpeting then consider keeping a hardwood or tile entrance way to reduce the problem. You may also want to consider deep cleaning your carpets once a month to bi-weekly. This can help out substantially and won’t cost you too much if you have your own machine.

4. Dehumidify
Humidity is one of the main reasons allergies act up. Let’s face it, there’s typically a ton of moisture in the air during the spring time so you’re not going to escape the torture any time soon. You can, however, fight back. One of the best things to do is install dehumidifying fans in your bathrooms. These are surprisingly cheap to find and will cut down on moisture in the rooms that have it the most. You may also want to put some of these fans in your garage as this can help reduce some of the moisture in the home. Finally, if you’re still having issues then you can easily find a dehumidifier for the bedroom or other living spaces. These can be found in most department stores and won’t cost a lot either. Simply fire it up when you’re sleeping and you may begin to feel better in no time at all.

5. Change Air Filters
It’s really easy to forget about your air filters, but keeping up with them can save you a whole lot of money and allergy relief in the long run. Typically, you should change them out every season, but a lot of people end up putting it off until a later day. This can be really bad when the pollen count begins to rise, as it means your home is going to be filled with allergens that will make the whole family miserable. Changing the air filter only takes a few seconds and won’t cost a lot either. You can usually buy bulk packs for a small price which will keep you stocked up for the full year. You should also consider changing the filters in your heating and cooling systems to as you may need to use one or the other and you don’t want their allergens spreading through the home!

6. Dust Often
Winter is typically one of the worst seasons for dust, but you may find your allergies react to it more during the spring time. This is why it’s important to dust often during this period, especially during early spring when winter’s dust may still be hanging out on picture frames and the like. You should try to dust two to three times a week if possible, but if you can’t make the time then once a week should be a firm rule. You can spend a fortune on dusting supplies, but there’s really no need to. In fact, a damp wash cloth can do most of the work for you. Just adding a little water to a cloth will help you grab more dust while preventing it from flying in the air and irritating your allergies even more. If you’re worried about the dust causing a problem then you may want to invest in an anti-dust spray that could help keep it off of your surfaces for a little longer.

7. Invest In Neti Pots
For generations, many cultures have used Neti Pots to help heal illnesses as well as ease allergy problems. Recently, they started to become popular in Western cultures again, which has helped many people get rid of allergies and other nasal problems for good. You can buy Neti Pots in a lot of different locations, so make sure you shop around to find a price that suits your budget. Some people even make their own Neti Pots with clay or by recycling similar items. The Neti Pot requires you to use warm water. Simply tilt your head and place the spout in one of your nostrils. The water will flow through the nostril and out the other, getting rid of toxins and allergens trapped in your nasal cavity. Make sure you follow the instructions for this remedy though! With a little luck, this natural process will soothe the sinuses so you can skip out on expensive remedies.

8. Change Your Diet
You’d be amazed at what changing your diet can do for your body’s immune system. With a few simple changes during the season you can actually enjoy more allergy relief than you would by popping a pill. Honey is one of the more common items people tell you to eat when you’re suffering from allergies; however, this is actually an old wives tale. Honey does do you a lot of good for your immune system, but it’s not your best option for allergy relief. Turmeric is actually one of the best ways to combat allergies and it offers you a wide range of food options to cook with it. Enjoying a variety of soups can also help with the problem. Generally, eating hot soups helps clear the nasal passage so you can breathe easier while getting plenty of nutrients. Eating enough fruits and vegetables will play a big part in keeping you healthy no matter what you’re facing, so do your immune system a favor and keep to the food pyramid where these items are concerned. You may also want to eat more chicken than beef as this has been proven to cut down on allergies throughout the year. There’s a lot of other food options to choose from, so do a little research to help find what works best for your diet!

9. Allergy Shots
A lot of people don’t want to get a shot for something as small as allergies, but they actually help. Unfortunately, they’re not as common as other shots, like the flu, so you may not be able to go just anywhere to get it. Try to have a conversation with your doctor about getting an allergy shot. A lot of the time, if your allergies are severe enough, they may actually suggest the option. Some doctors may send you to a specialist though, which could cost quite a bit of money. If this is the case, try to mention the shot to your doctor or ask to get a second opinion. With one shot you can eliminate your symptoms, which will cut back on the items you need to buy to keep your allergies at bay.

10. Bulk Medication
Natural remedies don’t always help us get the relief we need, which is why many people actually turn to medication to help out. There’s a lot of great brands out there that can help relieve most, if not all, of your allergy symptoms. If you can, get an appointment with your doctor to see which medications may help you out the most. You may also want to ask for a generic brand. However, if you know an over the counter medication is all you need then head to your local wholesale store to see what deals they have to offer. Most allergy medications, even generic brands, can be bought in bulk to save money. Even department stores offer these items in bulk, so don’t lose out on money by buying a single container. This is probably the best way to purchase the medication, especially if you need it for the whole family!

Allergy season doesn’t have to leave you in a fog, nor does it have to hog all of your rainy day funds. With a few simple tips you’ll find that taking care of your allergy problem is a lot easier than you think. With a little diet experimentation and a little elbow grease around the home, you may find your allergies will soon become a thing of the past!

Spring has finally arrived and even if it may not seem like it, it’s time to start thinking about your garden. It doesn’t matter if the birds are already chirping away or if there’s still a foot of snow in your yard, there’s something you can do to get your garden ready for the blossoming season. Prepping for a garden could mean throwing a lot of money into the hobby; however, there’s a lot of short cuts and money saving tips you can use to ensure your garden doesn’t cost you a small fortune. Better yet, with a little hard work, your garden may even put money back into the household!

1. Soil
Many gardeners will spend a lot of money on soil when there’s plenty in your own background. Typically your soil should be able to grow a pretty good variety of produce and flowers so don’t spend money on soil until you’re sure nothing will grow in your yard. One way to help keep your soil good is to rotate your crops as this helps lock in nutrients. One of the best plants to begin with is lettuce. Generally if you start the season off with this simple-to-grow produce then you’ll be ready to grow some incredible fruits and vegetables as the season progresses. You should also consider the space you have to plant in. A lot of people don’t think they can grow items in small areas which isn’t the case at all. In fact, you may be surprised as to how much you can actually plant in one area. However, you should make sure you know just how much space to use between each type of plant!

2. Composting
There’s a whole lot to love about composting! For starters, it can cost next to nothing to start your own personal compost at home. Browse around online to see if there’s materials you can use around the house to get you started on your new task. Once you’re ready to go start using some of your trash items, like banana peels and coffee grounds to get the compost going. There’s so many items you can use that you’ll notice a huge decrease in the amount of trash you’re producing each week. This in itself can be a major money saver, not to mention you’ll be doing the environment a lot of good by wasting less. Your new compost will also help prevent you from having to buy fertilizer. Rather, when you’re ready to start out your garden all you have to do is use what you’ve already created. There’s a lot of video tutorials online about composting, so don’t hesitate to start!

3. Plant Beds
If you’re looking to create a garden you can present to the world you may want to consider using flower beds. This doesn’t mean you have to go out and spend a lot of money on supplies. Instead, check out what you have around the house. Old wood, as well as thicker tree branches, worn down doors and shutters and even pallets can help make your flower bed idea a reality. With a coat of paint and a little elbow grease you’ll instantly fall in love with the flower beds you’ve created. Not to mention you can brag about how much work you put into them. Flower beds aren’t just for aesthetics though. If you have lower back pain then they can help you out with your gardening immensely. They may also help keep some small animals out of your plants. These amazing items can also help keep plants apart so you won’t have to worry about your eggplant overpowering another item!

4. Mulch
Living in a dry climate can be terrible on your plants and your water bill. Mulch is one solution worth looking into though. There’s many great reasons to use mulch, but if you’re looking to save money it can cut down on your water bill substantially. Every time you water your plants the mulch will soak up some of the water. Thus, when the heat kicks it up a notch the moisture in the mulch can actually help keep your plants thriving. The best thing about mulch is it’s not too hard to find for free or a low price. Try looking around the neighborhood to see if anyone is shredding broken tree branches. If they are they may be willing to hand over some of the chips for next to nothing. Make sure to haggle though as this could help you walk away with a better deal. You may also want to check your local listings like Craigslist, as some people simply want someone to haul away the chips. If you have no luck finding mulch this way and you can’t make it yourself then consider buying in bulk. Even if you don’t use all the chips this season they’ll be ready to go for the next!

5. Plant Wisely
When it comes to planting, you do have to be a bit on the strategic side. Don’t worry, usually all this means is you have to read the back of your seed packets. Make sure your climate meets all of the requirements before you plant as this will help increase the chances of your plants growing. Even if you don’t meet the requirements in early spring it doesn’t mean you should give up as planting in the summer or autumn could be a possibility. You should also consider what your family is going to eat when you choose what to plant. If you’re going to have a bunch of items springing up that no one is going to eat then chances are they’ll go to waste unless you can find someone to give/sell them to. You should also pick items that can be frozen or canned when they’re in abundance. This in itself will cut down on the grocery bill quite a bit. If you plan on feeding your family freshly grown produce often then learn how to succession plant so you’ll be guaranteed new items each week!

6. Recyclables
Some of the best gardening accessories can actually be found in your recycling bin. As spring begins it may not stay at the right temperature at night, thus causing an unwanted freeze to pass over your young plants. Rather than letting nature take its course, take to your recycling bin and pull out an old oatmeal container or 3 liter bottles. Simply cut the top off of the bottles and place them or any oatmeal containers you have on plants that are already growing. This is especially good for plants like tomatoes. You can also go ahead and pull out any plastic straws you may have used lately. These make perfect support for vine plants. If you want to start your plants off as seedlings then consider using an egg crate, yogurt containers, smaller plastic bottles or oatmeal containers. You can cut off the tops of bottles as you did with the plant covers for a cheap and easy container. Just add soil to each of these items and plant whichever seeds you hope to get a fresh start on. If you plan to keep a plant in the container for a bit longer then consider using the larger oatmeal container. Finally, you can use newspaper to help fight weeds or to act as a form of mulch!

7. Collect Rain Water
A lot of states implement water bans during the summer, especially if you’re experiencing a drought. Not to mention, during the seasons when you’ll water more you’ll probably end up spending a whole lot more on your water bill. Luckily, there’s one simple solution that doesn’t cost you a whole lot of money at all. That is, collect some rain water. If you have some old buckets laying around the home then all you have to do is set them out whenever the forecast calls for rain. Once the buckets are full, find somewhere to store them and use them to water your garden whenever possible. If you love this idea then you may want to make an investment in some rain barrels. These are typically larger containers that are designed to capture and hold rain for longer periods of time. With this quick trick to help out your garden you’ll cut down on a lot of watering, which is also a huge benefit for the environment.

8. Second Hand Supplies
You’re probably going to need some basic tools to help you get your garden in order, but this doesn’t mean you need to hurry down to your local department or hardware store and go on a shopping spree. Rather, you may want to check around and see if there’s any second hand items you can get that will help save you a lot of money. One of the best things you can do is try your local thrift store as many people will donate some of their old tools when they upgrade to new ones. Here, you should be able to find some, if not all, of the beginner items you need to get the job done. If not, then look at your local listing to see if anyone is giving away or selling gardening supplies. You may also consider creating your own ad to see if anyone is willing to help out. Finally, you may want to ask friends, family and neighbors if they have supplies they’re willing to part with.

9. Pesticides
A lot of people choose to use pesticides in their garden to help keep harmful bugs out of their fresh produce. Although this is a good way to improve the way your plants grow, it can be harmful to you, helpful bugs, the ecosystem and your budget. This doesn’t mean you can’t use your own homemade pesticides to help remedy your pest problem. In fact, you can use a wide variety of items including vinegar or vegetables to help keep just about anything off your plants. You can even use beer to keep snails out of your garden! There’s a lot of different pesticide items to choose from so do a little research before you mix up a concoction. You should be able to find a lot of free information online which will help you find the perfect pesticide for your needs. In most cases, you can even find all the ingredients needed already in the home, which tacks on even more savings!

10. Join a Club
Gardening can be a lot more fun if you find a group of likeminded individuals to help make it a social occasion too! There’s lots of gardening clubs online and in just about every community so try to find one that suits your needs. When it comes to a gardening club you can actually save a whole lot of money and you may even make a little too! For instance, gardening clubs will help you stay interested in your garden so you won’t have to worry about it being overrun by weeds or insects when you don’t feel like tending to it. You will also be able to borrow or trade tools which means no more shopping for the items you don’t have. One of the best things about gardening clubs is many people will also trade seeds so you won’t have to order large packets of seeds you may not ever use. Finally, some clubs will even allow you to sell or trade your produce, which means you’ll have a better variety for your household meals!

Gardening is a great way to enjoy some fresh air and get some exercise. With these simple tips you’ll not only feel great about your garden but you’ll put less money into it. With a little love and a lot of work, you may even be able to earn a little money off of your delicious and healthy produce!

Spring is filled with beauty and fun, but a lot of people may feel like they need to throw money into the season to make it exciting. There’s a lot of great ways to transform this season into savings though, and no, that doesn’t mean you have to stay inside until summer! With a few simple tips and a little looking around you should be able to find some amazing things to do that make the entire family happy. These ten ideas should get you started on the right path, but the sky is the limit when it comes to this season so follow your instincts and enjoy the fresh air as much as possible!

1. Geocaching
More and more people are jumping on the geocaching bandwagon and there’s really no surprise as to why! This hobby is part hiking and part adventure and it doesn’t cost a cent! All you have to do is log on to a geocaching website and follow the coordinates. You may have to a lot of leg work for some locations and others may require quite a bit of looking around, but when you find what you’re looking for it’ll be a definite sense of accomplishment. The best thing is, you can plan on doing geocaching based on the amount of time you have. A small task can be done while you wait on another activity, or you can plan the day around your geocaching hobby. You never know, you may even end up finding a treasure on one of your hunts!

2. Kites
Kites have been a popular spring activity for decades, which is a big reason why you should keep the tradition going with your children. You can buy a cheap kite at most dollar stores or department stores, so you don’t have to worry about spending a lot of money on this hobby. You could also gather the kids together to work on building your own kites which will also make the activity a memory they’ll want to share with their own children someday. There’s a lot of free tutorials for this online and buying supplies shouldn’t cost you a lot of money. The best thing is, when you get your kite together you can fly it just about anywhere for next to nothing. Kites make great additions to a trip to the beach and are a good way to keep kids busy during a picnic!

3. Sports
Nice weather means it’s time to get reacquainted with sports again. Luckily, there’s a lot of variety that starts up in the spring so you can play just about anything you want! From soccer to golf, you may feel overwhelmed when choosing which outdoor sport you want to play each time you have free time. You may also feel overwhelmed by the price tag of some of the sports. Fortunately, a lot of schools will allow you to sign up your children for many sports at no price to you. If your school isn’t hosting sports teams then see if you can get a waiver to sign up your child for free at the local community center. Of course, there are also amateur teams for adults which will help keep you fit and entertained throughout the season. If you can’t manage to find a cheap way to join a team then make sure you enjoy the activities with your kids and plan playdates that allow them to get out and enjoy sports with their peers.

4. Scouts
One way to embrace the season is to sign your kids up for scouts. Again, there’s a lot of options here but they’re usually based on gender and age group. Generally, signing up for a scout does require a bit of money, but in most areas it tends to be affordable. You may also ask if there is a waiver to see if you can enroll your child for free. Some scouts will allow this, but some may still charge you for some items, such as uniforms. Many may ask if your child would like to participate in a fundraiser to help pay for their membership, uniform and badges, which is a great way to teach your child responsibility while also saving money on the activity. A lot of troops will allow your child to enter scouts for a reduced price if you volunteer to help out. This could mean leading meetings, accompanying the group on field trips or providing your child’s troop with snacks. Although it may seem overwhelming at first, these tasks will help you get out more too and may even become a great bonding experience for you and your children!

5. Pick/Build Bouquets
With all the April showers, there will be plenty of flowers which means you and your kids can enjoy decorating the home with their beautiful scent. If you’re growing flowers in your own yard then have the kids go out and pick their favorites. This activity is especially great for small children as they will generally want to pick the flowers anyway. Once the children have picked out their favorites find a vase and get to work. You may even consider asking the kids to make their own vase which won’t cost much if you make it out of clay! If you’re not sure how to start off your bouquet then look online. There’s an abundance of tutorials that can help you find the perfect steps to take in order to make your flowers look even more incredible. When you’ve created your masterpiece then use it to bring joy to your own home. You may even consider selling the bouquets or passing them out to friends and family as a gift. If you really want to make the children feel great, then prepare many bouquets and pass them out at a nursing home or hospital!

6. Volunteer Outside
As the spring weather begins to roll in, you may find the urge to spend as much time as possible outside with your family. However, you may also find that you run out of ways to entertain everyone. On the plus side, you’ll probably get a lot of outdoor chores accomplished but this work will probably run thin too! So, you may want to consider taking to the great outdoors to get some volunteer work in. There’s a lot of activities to choose from here. You can offer your services for building homes for the poor. You can pick up trash in a local park or at a school. You may even ask the community if you can plant some trees to help out the environment. If you have younger children then feed birds at your local pond or park with stale bread or crackers. You and your older children can also offer your services by asking to help elderly or disabled neighbors with their yards. Pulling weeds, gardening and mowing can help a lot of people keep their homes looking great when they’re having trouble getting outdoors without assistance.

7. Visit a Farm
One of the best seasons to see a farm is in the spring time! There’s a lot of new produce being planted and grown as well as the abundance of baby animals that are fun to watch. Try to see if any local farms are hosting tours for an affordable price. If you already know someone who owns a farm then this could be a great outing that won’t cost anything. Farms are great for children of all ages too. Younger children can help feed the animals and admire all of the newborns that are just starting to walk around. Older children can learn how food is grown and brought to the table, which is a valuable lesson that everyone should experience. You may also be able to secure horseback riding lessons or experience how farmers sheer sheep for their wool. The possibilities are endless on the farm which is why everyone should see how things are done!

8. Birds
Spring is filled with lots of birds chirping the day away. If you’re in luck you may even be able to catch some birds that don’t normally appear in your area while they’re migrating back home for the summer. One simple way to enjoy the birds is take out some binoculars and watch them. You may even want to photograph or draw some of them. To make things fun for the kids you can print out a list of birds, with pictures and have the children mark off which birds they’ve seen. Whoever has the most birds can get a special treat! You can also spend time spreading birdseed in your yard to ensure they all get plenty of food while they’re settling back in and tending to their eggs. Another fun task for kids is to build a birdhouse. There’s lot of tutorials online for a cheap houses or you can easily spend a little more money for a birdhouse that only requires a little work. You can also create a feeder for humming birds using sweetened water and a plastic bottle.

9. Go Camping
If you like to sleep under the stars then camping may be just what you’re looking for, especially if you have a bit of time off work. With the sunshine poking through you should be able to enjoy hiking and fishing without getting overheated or freezing. This can entertain your family for hours at a time, but if you feel they’re beginning to get bored try adding a scavenger hunt to the mix. You could also enjoy roasting food over a fire or singing traditional camp fire songs. These activities will cost you next to nothing which will help keep the family budget thriving. Before you go camping make sure you brush up on some of the rules involving extreme weather as often late nights could become risky, depending on the area you’re in. With a little know how though, your family can take a break from your fast paced lifestyle and get to know one another better by slowing down and getting some fresh air!

10. Browse Deals
Of course, spring does have a lot to offer that may cost you a pretty penny. Don’t let this discourage you too much though as there’s a lot of ways to work around a heavy price tag. For instance, logging into your favorite social media coupon page could lead you on several adventures that won’t just keep you entertained, but will also save you a bit of money on your spring time entertainment. For instance, if you’re looking for a fun date idea then sites like Groupon may help you book a group date at a vineyard hosting a wine tasting event. Family outings can be made even better too! For instance, spring time usually hosts hot air balloon rides, which is a fun activity that most kids would love to try out. Of course, you could also secure this coupon for a romantic getaway! There’s also a lot of education activities such as enjoying a honey making class or physical activities such as yoga and martial arts. No matter what you’re looking to do during the season, you should be able to get a lot of great ideas simply by browsing these special coupon sites!

Spring is a great time to get out there and try new things. With the weather on the fair side, for the most part, and all of the fresh and relaxing air, you may find yourself feeling happier than ever. The best thing is, with these great deals you won’t end up spending your rainy day funds!

Life costs money but it doesn’t have to cost as much money as you think it does. In fact, a lot of your everyday expenditures can be significantly reduced to help make your day to day living more lucrative. For many, it may seem difficult to cut corners in many areas of life, but when it comes to these 10 things, you may not even notice a change in routine. With a little bit of an adjustment you may find your savings account is growing even more day by day, which can help fund major purchases or leave you with a little extra money to send kids to college or enjoy a grander family vacation.

1. Coffee
It’s pretty easy to get into the routine of buying a fresh and delicious cup of coffee each morning. For some, it’s the caffeine boost and sugar rush that ensures work before noon is actually a possibility. Unfortunately, your sugary morning treat can cost you up to $6 a day per cup and isn’t doing you any favors in the calorie department. Instead of going out for coffee every morning you should try to make coffee at home. You can easily brew a delicious cup by grinding your own beans or using different brewing methods to see what you like. If you’re a fan of the frothed milk then all you need is a mason jar and microwave to achieve this delicious morning must-have. You can also buy special flavorings at a decent price that will make it feel like you did go out for your morning cup. By skipping out on the coffee you’ll not only save money, but you’ll cut down on mileage and gas as well as empty calories and an abundance of sugar. If you do have a problem with staying home every day then try to slowly cut down on the coffee runs. If you can limit it to once a week then you’ll be doing amazing. Of course, if you can’t give up on your coffee fix then save your cup. A lot of companies will give cheap refills. You may also be able to buy a special cup to receive the same benefit. You should also consider purchasing with a gift card as each time you load up the card you may get a discount or free treat. Finally, try hanging around the café at night or early in the morning to see if you can score free or discounted baked goods or coffee.

2. Basic Repairs
Stuff gets broken, it’s inevitable. That doesn’t mean you have to jump onto the yellow pages to find a repair person every time it happens. Before you freak out and spend lots of money on a basic repair you should consult the internet. A lot of the time someone will have posted a video or written tutorial that can allow you to get the job done for free or next to nothing. From big items like your computer or television to the small stuff like a computer mouse or changing a fuse, there’s no reason to spend hundreds on something you can do yourself. Most people check out Youtube first, but there’s a lot of other pages online that can help you out if you have no luck here. You may also want to check out the manufacturer’s page to see if they’ve posted something too!

3. Entertainment
When it comes to spending money, entertainment is where we’re usually willing to splurge the most. However, this can be one area where you can save a whole lot with a little know how. For instance, when it comes to cable you can end up spending a whole lot of money, but if you call in to cancel the service they’re likely to offer you a deal to keep you on board. Also, if you have a roommate then purchase cable using the newcomer’s special. When your special runs out, cancel and let your roommate do the same. You may also want to consider sharing wi-fi with a trusted neighbor as splitting the bill will save you a whole lot of money. If you have a smart phone and wi-fi then don’t use your minutes or spend more on a landline. Instead, use wi-fi calling whenever possible. If you love the movies then try to go early to receive matinee or twilight pricing. Finally, if you want to buy tickets for an event, but won’t be too bummed out if you miss it, then hold out. As the event draws closer the tickets will decline in price if they don’t sell out.

4. Gym
A lot of people don’t want to be frugal when it comes to a good gym; however, you can get a good workout without paying a cent in most cases. Most gyms, especially the big chains, will offer free passes that last anywhere between a day and a month. Simply sign up for a pass and you can enjoy a free workout throughout the time period. When your pass runs out then locate the next gym and do the same. This will allow you to try out different gyms which could lead to a better purchase later on. You could also skip out on the gym altogether and find free workout videos online to help you get the workout class without the price tag.

5. Haircuts
The hair salon or barber shop can really be a drain on your funds, especially if you have more than one person needing a haircut. Rather than spending a fortune, try to check out a student salon for a free or heavily discounted haircut. Most of the time you’ll get a top notch haircut that you’ll love showing off. Of course, you could also invest in hair scissors and clippers to get the job done yourself. This is actually easier than you may think and there’s an abundance of tutorials online that will help guide you through the process. Once you’re comfortable with doing your own hair you’ll wonder how you could bear to spend so much on a hair stylist before!

6. Price Matching
When it comes to shopping, nothing will make your savings account thrive quite like price matching. If you’ve never price matched before you’ll get the hang of it in no time at all. First, all you need to do is research which stores in your area do price matching. Then, shop around for the item you’ve been looking to buy. If the store that has the lowest sales price is out of stock or isn’t in your general area then take the ad to the store that price matches and ask for the discount. Some stores can do this right at the register, but a few may ask you to go to customer service. Once you know where you’re meant to go when it comes to price matching your job as a shopper will go a lot faster, not to mention you’ll save a whole lot on items you’d otherwise end up paying more for. The only key to this is you have to have the ad available, so always make sure to bring the sales papers with you or locate the price on your phone in advance.

7. DIY Cleaning Products
Do a lot of cleaning? Of course you do, which means you probably run out of cleaning supplies like they’re going out of style. This doesn’t mean you have to keep forking over the cash to get more though, especially when it comes to those expensive brand name products. Instead, check online to see if there’s a DIY soap you can use to get your home fully stocked on cleaning supplies. From dishwasher detergent to toilet cleaner you can find a little bit of everyone online. The best thing is, a lot of the ingredients you’ll find already in the home or they’re incredibly cheap to buy in store. A lot of the household soaps can be used from the same items too which means less spending on a huge variety of products. Each DIY soap is eco-friendly too, so you can feel proud you’re doing your part!

8. Quit A Bad Habit
Believe it or not, but your bad habit is costing you a whole lot of money. From smoking to shoe shopping, there’s always something in your life that can be altered to help you save money. Luckily, everyone is in the same predicament as you so there’s actually a lot of advice out there to help you transform a bad habit into a way to feel more empowered and save lots of money. Many people suggest slowly weaning yourself off of the habit, while many others proclaim you should kick it by going cold turkey. It is up to you to decide what works best for your physical and mental health. Science has proven that doing something every day for 30 days is a great way to build up a habit, so if you can replace your bad habit with something good you may find yourself feeling amazing in no time at all.

9. Food
Purchasing food is probably where a good portion of the pay check goes to, but this doesn’t always have to be the case. In fact, if you choose to eat at home most of the time then you’ll actually be saving a whole lot more money than you’d expect. For instance, skipping out on going to lunch with colleagues everyday can save you anywhere from $5 to $15 a day! That really adds up fast, especially when you have a variety of food at home to choose from. If you don’t want to miss out on spending social time with your co-workers then suggest a potluck once a week, or limit your eating out to one time a week or every other week. When it comes to food at home, try shopping open markets for produce and meats. You should also avoid buying a lot of processed foods as these tend to be bad for your health and aren’t entirely filling. You may also want to buy non-perishable items like rice and beans in bulk to help save money in the long run. Of course, growing your own produce or spending the weekends fishing may help save more than you think too!

10. Credit Cards
A lot of people get in a whole lot of trouble when it comes to credit cards. Rather than finding yourself buried in debt due to this piece of plastic try leaving it at home in a safe. Instead, take cash that you can afford to spend with you and utilize rewards card wherever possible. By not spending money you don’t have you’ll be much better off in the long run. Of course, it’s okay to use the card every once awhile, especially since it helps you build credit, but limit yourself to needs or items you know you won’t have a problem paying off. If your credit card is just too tempting then do yourself a big favor and submerge it in water. Then, stick the water in the freezer and forger about it. If you really want to spend money on the card then you’re going to have to wait for it to thaw out, which may lead you to forget about the impulse buy.

Every day living is a great way to find new ways to save a whole lot of money. Often, we don’t think about the impact of our daily routines on our budgets, but there’s a whole lot we can change that will give us more money than we can even imagine. These ten areas are only a select few, so try to take a step back and analyze your life to see what corners your future savings are hiding in!

Spring is in the air, which means it’s time to get to work on some Spring Cleaning. Although cleaning might not be on everyone’s to do list it’s a great way to start the season out fresh while also helping your household save a bit of money. For many though, spring cleaning means spending money on cleaning supplies, filters and maybe even tools to get some of the harder tasks finished up. You don’t have to turn this seasonal activity into something costly though. There’s lot of ways your spring cleaning can even end up putting money back in your pocket, rather than taking away from it. So, put on those rubber gloves and get to scrubbing because this season is going to be filled with squeaky clean savings.

1. Dusting
Dusting is probably one of the most disliked cleaning activities. It causes you to sneeze, can get pretty boring and the dust seems to always make a comeback no matter how hard you clean. You can make dusting go by a lot faster though which means you can move on to a more important task. To begin with, grab your favorite fuzzy socks and put them on. The fuzzier the sock the better! Now, as you walk around cleaning the rest of the house your socks will actually pick up the dust off your hard surfaces without you having to do anything extra. Fun, right? All you have to do is toss the socks in the wash and you’re ready to go. You can also use the socks to clean up high places you can’t really see, like the top of your doors or cabinets. If you have dusty lamp shades or other items that are made of fabric, then pull out the lint roller. This will take on the challenge in less than a minute! There’s more to dust than meets the eye though. Try to move around your big appliances to check out how much dust they’ve managed to collect. You can easily clear this out with a vacuum cleaner, so you won’t have to spend hours dusting away. This task alone will save the household a lot of money, especially when it comes to the refrigerator.

2. Reconsider Gadgets
Every home has the collection of gadgets that once seemed to be the coolest thing in the culinary field. From the snow cone maker to the electric wok, your kitchen may be pretty bogged down by items you stopped using after the first week of buying them. Instead of letting these gadgets sit around and collect dust while taking up your valuable kitchen space, you may want to reconsider if they belong in your kitchen. If you bought the juicer thinking you were going to go organic and make juice every morning, but haven’t touched it since week 3 then it may be time it leaves the kitchen. Gather up all of the devices you don’t use and try to sell them off. Ebay is a great option for this, but you can also try hosting a yard sale. If you’re not interested in selling them items then try donating them to charity for a tax dedication later on. The same can be said with electronics. There’s no need to have five different generations of a cell phone lying around the house. However, when it comes to items like phones and tablets you can easily trade them in to buy something newer.

3. Toys
Your kids’ toys can really begin to clutter up the house as the months go by. This is especially true if you pack up old toys and leave them in the basement, attic or other storage areas. Before you start your cleaning spree go through these areas to see if there’s toy you don’t want in the home anymore. If so, try donating them or putting them in a yard sale. You should also have the kids go through their toys to see if there’s anything in their rooms that are just taking up space (or preventing them from getting new toys). With all of the extras out of the picture you should be able to clean more thoroughly. Most kids’ toys are covered in germs so a good scrubbing is always a great idea. If you have toddler toys or action figures then put them in the dishwasher. Many other toys can be thrown in the washer or wiped down with antibacterial cloths. Before you put the toys back in the rooms make sure to sanitize the storage bins to help further the cleaning process.

4. Upcycle Organization
A lot of people spend a small fortune on organizational items when they’re cleaning up their home. However, many people don’t often consider the items that are just hanging out in their recycling bin. Rather than discard the items you may want to transform them into fun ways to keep your home in order. For instance, oatmeal containers and jars can be used for a variety of storage needs. Place paper clips, rubberbands, thumbtacks and other small office items into a jar and place the lid on it. This will help prevent spills and you can decorate each jar to suit your tastes. You can also use the jars for paintbrushes, pens and pencils. Oatmeal containers are also great for these items, but can be used for large items like yarn and crocheting tools too. If you have glass bottles lying around then use a glass cutting method to transform them into utensil holders, candles or a cute way to keep your bracelets organized. Even cereal boxes can be used to help keep papers organized, which could save you a lot of time!

5. Eliminate Grime
One of the main reasons homes look dirty is because of hard to clean grime. No one wants to spend hours scrubbing away at items that seem to not want to be clean. There’s some quick tricks to get just about anything clean though. For instance, if you have a lot of soap scum in your shower, or your toilet takes hours to clean then use vinegar and/or baking soda to get the job done. Leaving these natural items to do the work for you allows you to simply wipe the grime away and then admire your fresh bathroom. Placing vinegar in a Ziploc bag and placing it on your shower head with a rubber band will help clear out any hard water build up while giving it a sparkling clean look. This cleaning trick alone can save you a bundle on water too! If your stove burners never look presentable then place them in a Ziploc with ammonia overnight and then rinse them off. Finally, if you can’t get some of your pots, pans or casserole dishes clean then soak them in hot water over night with a biodegradable dryer sheet!

6. Forgotten Items
There’s a lot of items around the house we often overlook when it comes to cleaning. Unfortunately, not cleaning them could end up in a product that doesn’t work as it should or doesn’t last the average shelf life. One such item is the coffee maker. If you’re not careful these items can actually grow mold inside of them which could make you sick. Luckily, cleaning them is as easy as brewing one part water and one part vinegar. The vacuum is another item that must occasionally be cleaned. Try to remove hair from the coils and clean out dust particles from inside of the machine. You should also make sure to check that there is no dust or other grime on your appliances, such as the washer and dryer. These items should also be cleaned of hair and lent to avoid future mechanical issues. You may also want to run a special cleaner in your dishwasher to help keep things sanitized. You should also check filters in the home. This is a great time to swap out air filters as allergy season is right on track. Water filters in the refrigerator and other water dispensers should be checked and changed too!

7. Prevent Allergies
Speaking of allergy season! Spring cleaning is a great time to help your family avoid the trauma that is allergy season. One of the best ways to start on this process is to take any rugs in the home outside to beat them. Getting the dust off of your rugs the old fashioned way will help keep the dust count in your home down, big time. While your rugs are outside take the time to deep clean your carpets. Then, when you bring them back in vacuum or deep clean the rugs. The home will automatically smell better and you may notice a change in your family’s breathing. Another good idea is to take all of the linens off of the bed and give them a good wash. With everything off of the bed give it a good vacuum. This won’t just cut down on dust mites, but will also help keep your mattress fresh for much longer. Apart from linens, make sure to wash your pillows and larger blankets too as this should be done once a season anyway!

8. Clothing
Clothes can clutter up a closet which means you may end up paying more for heating and cooling costs, not to mention you won’t have room for anything new. Try to go through all of your clothes before you get too in-depth into the cleaning process. If the items don’t fit or you don’t like them then pass them down to someone, sell them or simply donate them. Clothes that are ruined or ripped can be turned into shorts or cleaning rags. If you have a lot of denim that isn’t appropriate to wear any longer then use it to sharpen your razors after shaving! You should also properly clean all of your winter gear and store it air bag or containers that won’t allow moths or other harmful bugs in.

9. Clean Electronics
There’s more germs than you think on your keyboard and phones, so don’t let them turn into a nasty cold. Cleaning electronics is pretty important and can not only help keep you healthier but may improve their life span. For instance, many desktop computers will collect dust which could make the system over heat a lot faster than it would normally. Also, allowing food and grime to sit on a keyboard could prevent the keys from working. There’s a lot of easy and cheap ways to clean your electronics so make sure to browse around before you spend a lot of money on expensive cleaning products.

10. Make Your Own Soaps
If you’re tired of spending a fortune for cleaning supplies at your local department store then spring cleaning is a great way to start making your own soaps. You can find a recipe for just about anything online which will help you save on everything from personal hygiene soaps to cleaning products. The best thing is, you can find most of the ingredients already in your home. If not, many of the products use similar ingredients so you shouldn’t have to buy a lot of extra items to create different batches of soap! With your newly found skill you should cut down on spending for these items to next to nothing and your home will look absolutely incredible!

Spring cleaning is a great time to make your home feel refreshing for the new season. With the cold weather moving out and the warm weather quickly taking its place you’ll be glad you took the time to try out these cleaning tricks. You may even find that some of them have helped cut down on spending, so you can put more towards that family vacation!

Can you believe St. Patrick’s Day is only a couple of weeks away? With the holiday rapidly approaching it may be time to start planning what you’re going to do to celebrate the Irish holiday. If you have kids then this may be a bit more problematic than other holidays. Most St. Patrick’s Day celebrations are based around adults and alcohol which makes finding a child friendly holiday event on a budget a bit of a needle in a haystack. Have no fear though as there is actually quite a bit you can do with your children to help them enjoy the holiday just as much as the adults. With these ten ideas you can put away your credit card and enjoy good quality family time this St. Paddy’s Day!

1. Check Out the Parade
Just as with all great holidays, the St. Patrick’s Day parade is an amazing experience for young and old. A lot of cities will host their own parade so this is something to look out for in your area. If you don’t live in a city hosting a parade see if one of your neighboring areas is doing so. It may be worth it to take a morning drive to see what the parade has in store for visitors. You may also consider looking around to see if there is any activity you can join that may put you and/or the kids in the parade. This will add extra magic to the experience and will give you something to do that makes the holiday stand out. A lot of scouts or other children’s programs may already have a spot in the parade, so make sure to keep up to date to see if this is something your children may qualify for. If there’s no parade in your area then try to find a parade on TV or stream one on the internet. It shouldn’t take a lot of browsing to run across one if not more parades that will keep the family entertained for an hour or two.

2. Make Green Clothes
You can’t go without green clothes on St. Patrick’s Day unless you want to spend the day running away from pinchers. Rather than going out and buying new clothes you can easily have some fun crafting your own green clothes. For starters, tie dye kits are a great way to have some fun with the kids and they’re incredibly inexpensive. However, if you don’t want to spend money on a kit then you can easily make up the dye on your own. Simply take some old shirts and have a blast making different designs! If you’re not sure how to go about tie dye designs there’s a lot of tutorials online that may be able to instruct you on how to make four leaf cloves designs. Another option is to use fabric paint to make your green clothes. This paint allows you to work on a variety of colored or white clothing so you have more options. Kids can paint on cloves, leprechauns, a pot of gold and cold coins amongst other design options. You can also use a series of household items as stamps for the clothing. For instance, if you slice a bell pepper in the middle it’ll create a fun clover design or you can use a slice of apple to create clover pedals.

3. Plant Clovers
Clovers are all over the place when you see St. Paddy’s Day décor, so why not plant some of your own? This is a great little project for most school aged kids and is pretty green too, so you’ll be able to have fun while doing the environment a favor. You’ll need to start out with a container to plant the clovers in. Jelly jars are always a great idea as are other glass or plastic items you may have in your recycling bin. If you don’t have any of these then simply cut a plastic water or soda bottle in half and use that. This is incredibly eco-friendly so you can give yourself a pat on the back for keeping Mother Nature healthy. If you want to make it more festive then head to your dollar store and buy mini flower pots, or see if they have holiday inspired pots. If you pick up the clay flower pots then these can be painted with festive designs which will make the project go even further. When you have your container ready fill it with soil from outside, or from a bag. Then, carefully root some clovers from outside and place them in the pot, or use clover seeds. Make sure to water regularly and place the clovers in the sun!

4. Green Foods
Usually kids aren’t too keen on green foods, but given it’s a holiday they may be on board! This is especially true when you transform some of their favorite snacks into green foods. For instance, turn your Rice Krispy Treats into a festive snack by adding a couple dabs of food coloring to the marshmallow mix. You may also consider adding the marshmallows from Lucky Charms to the mix to make it even more festive. You can do the same thing with sugar cookies. Once they’ve baked add green icing or holiday designs to the top. For beverages, try transforming apple cider into a delicious green treat. You can even make the cider at home to ensure it has less sugar. Green Jell-o is also a hit amongst kids and won’t take long to make! Of course, if you’re looking for healthier options then try green apples, celery, cucumber and broccoli with a dipping sauce. For a lunch time treat try whipping up a green pizza dough. Cover the pizza in cheese and then add basil leaves in the shape of clovers or bell pepper slices.

5. Pot of Gold Scavenger Hunt
Nothing keeps kids entertained quite like a scavenger hunt! While the kids are sleeping make them a list of clues that will lead them to a pot of gold. You can fill up the pot with a variety of candies, treats or even a couple of holiday inspired toys. Make sure to add chocolate gold coins to the pot too to make it feel more authentic. You may even consider using green foot prints to guide the children to the next clue, or let them know when they’re getting close. The kids will love looking for items and if you plan accordingly it could keep them busy for a couple of hours. If you have children of various age groups then you could create different hunts, or have the older children help out the younger children. This is a great activity for St. Patrick’s Day parties too, and will ensure kids have as much fun as the adults.

6. Share Celtic Fairy Tales
Although St. Patrick’s Day is about the saint who brought Christianity to Ireland, the holiday as become a giant celebration of everything Irish/Celtic. So, why not take this time to share some of the most memorable Celtic Fairy Tales with your children? You can choose the stories based on age group as some may seem frightening for younger children. However, there are stories that have been edited to suit any age group. If you don’t own any books on Celtic fairy tales then head over to your local library. They should have one if not more books on the topic. If you’re lucky they may even have a whole St. Patrick’s Day section which will make picking out a book a lot easier and more fun. If you don’t want to go to the library or can’t find what you’re looking for, there are many stories published online that you can print out and share with the family. Some of these stories have even been transformed into movies which may also add some fun to your evening.

7. Traditional Games
There’s a lot of games that we play today that derived from Irish games. For instance, baseball, bowling and chess have all been linked back to Ireland during the Middle Ages. So, you can connect with your roots and have the kids enjoy some of these activities. There’s also many other Irish games you can choose from. For instance, you can play a game of Corners which is a lot like Musical Chairs. You may also want to give the children a chance to try Hurling. Of course, you will have to base this game around the child’s age and strength, but it may bring a few hours of joy. If you don’t have a clue where to start, check online to see if there’s any ideas that strike your fancy.

8. Try River Dancing
This traditional Celtic dance is a lot of fun to watch, but is even more fun to try. Look around to see if there’s anyone in your community that offers lessons to get you and your family started. You may even see if you can find a Groupon or other social media deal to help with the price. If spending money on lessons is an issue then simply take to the internet. There’s a lot of great free streaming sources that will guide you through basic lessons. You can also watch videos of popular dances and try your luck with the steps. Although it may not be professional and it may not look great, the kids will have a blast simply trying. To make things even more fun try streaming Celtic music to dance to!

9. Fun Lessons
If you’re short on ideas then try transforming the holiday into a great learning experience for the kids. You can take the time to teach them about Ireland as a nation as well as their history and current affairs. You should also go into the meaning of the holiday so that children will understand why it is a day of celebration. Trivia games and flash cards are perfect methods for teaching the material, but you may also want to use some print outs. For instance, printing out a coloring page of the country could help children understand it better. Also, if you have traced your ancestry back to Ireland then this is a great time to talk about those relatives! This could be especially fun if you have pictures or other memorabilia for a show and tell!

10. Traditional Foods
Although green foods are a lot of fun, you may want to consider trying out a few traditional Irish recipes as a treat for the family. Look around online or in a cook book to see if there’s anything you’d be interested in making. If you choose a meal that offers smaller tasks then it makes a perfect learning experience for older kids. With the whole family working together in the kitchen, the holiday may bring even more meaning especially if you transform it into a family tradition. Once the meal is done have everyone sit down to try out the new dishes. You may find that the kids will be more open to try it if they helped you cook it. Not to mention, seeing parents try new things is a great step to help children follow suit. You may even want to share stories about what each of you learned during the day to help make the meal seem even more incredible.

St. Patrick’s Day doesn’t have to be all about pinching and drinking. If you’re celebrating with kids this year then these budget friendly ideas will ensure you have the best holiday yet. You may even decide that the green holiday is more than just a cultural celebration but a great stress free holiday for you and your kids to learn and try new things as a family!

As we began to ease into March you may want to consider if you’re going to celebration National Puppy Day by getting your own fur baby to love. Although the holiday isn’t until March 23, planning for a puppy and picking one out can take some time and shouldn’t be taken lightly. If you’re on a budget, but plan to add a new member to your family soon there’s a few tips that can help save a bundle of money on your new pet. With the financial burden put to the side, you’ll be able to make a clear decision about your new dog which will certainly be helpful if the children beg you to take home the whole litter!

1. Adopt
There’s a lot of money to be made by breeders during this time of year and it’s often hard to overlook the adorable puppies advertised around the neighborhood/community. However, before you spend a small fortune on a puppy that is pretty much guaranteed a home somewhere, you may want to consider making adoption your first choice. There’s a lot of dogs in shelters and more arrive each day. Some aren’t so lucky and end up in shelter’s who can’t keep them for more than a week or so without having to terminate them. By choosing a dog from a shelter you’re not only saving its life, but you’re also providing aid for that shelter which could help save other pets’ lives too. That being said, adoption also comes with its perks. Your pet will already be spayed or neutered if they’re of age. If not, the shelter will provide you with a voucher to have the surgery completed when the pet is old enough. It will also have all of its shots updated so you won’t have to worry about this expenditure for a year or two, depending on the shots.

2. DIY Grooming
Taking your dog to the groomer may seem like the most convenient thing in the world until you realize how much you pay on this service each year. Rather than hand over a lot of money, try to give your pet the grooming it needs on your own. A lot of dogs are actually quite easy to groom. For instance, many short hair breeds only require a bath and toe nail clipping. Of course, if you do have a high maintenance dog then it may take some time to get down the grooming routine. However, thankfully you can find tutorials, including videos, for just about every breed’s grooming needs which will make your job so much easier. You should try to pick up grooming tools from a feed store as they tend to have them at a cheaper price. Of course, you may also ask around to see if you can borrow these items from friends or family. Finally, try to buy your pet’s soaps in bulk. Look for cheap brands when deciding, but make sure the ingredients won’t harm the pet. You can easily do research on most brands online. You may also consider working in flea and tick control into your grooming routine to save even more money.

3. DIY Tags
Customized dog tags don’t run cheap and if your pet has a tendency to bury collars then you’re going to be paying a lot of money to ensure your dog can be returned if lost. Sure, microchips also help with this problem, but it’s important to also have a tag in case a finder isn’t willing to take your pet to the vet or local animal control. Instead of paying $20 for an engraved tag you can easily make a custom tag using shrink dink paper or a similar product. All you have to do is create the design you want on the paper and then bake it. The design, including your address or phone number, will remain on the tag which will shrink down to the perfect size for your collar. If you like to keep your pet festive then this is a perfect option for you as you can change out the tags as often as you like without having to spend too much.

4. Go Durable
It’s really tempting to buy cheap items when you’re starting out with a new pet. Although the items may be a cheap solution to a problem you’ll probably find that you’ll soon be replacing them. You shouldn’t get into the cycle of buying cheap item after cheap item, especially when it comes to collars, mussels and leashes. You will want these items as study as possible as it is their job to keep your pet from getting away from you. So, instead of quadrupling the price of your expenditures in this area you can simply buy a high quality item the first time. You may not feel like it’s worth it when you walk away from the cash register, but after years of use you’ll be thankful you made the investment. Of course, you can try to combat the high prices by using coupons or shopping during sales! You should also do some research to make sure the item is as high quality as its price tag suggests.

5. Vaccinations
Vaccinations are crucial when it comes to your pets. You can’t get around getting them as your dog will get sick and it could possibly be fatal. Not to mention, in many places dogs must be registered which means showing proof of their vaccinations. Don’t worry though as you can save big time on shots! Your first option is to administer the shots yourself. It may not be a pleasant experience for either of you, but your pet will be safe from common diseases as well as rabies. You can buy shots from veterinary clinics as well as feed stores for a low price. However, some places will not allow you to give your pet a rabies shot, so you may have to go into a clinic for this one. Your other option is a clinic. Usually many animal shelters will offer a clinic beside the shelter which allows family’s to bring in their pets for spaying/neutering as well as vaccinations. They do charge a bit more than you’d pay at a feed store, but they also print out a record and give you a reminder for next time’s shots. You may also want to find locations that do shot packages. These places can sometimes offer a good deal, but make sure you shop around before choosing one of these places.

6. Pet Insurance
You wouldn’t want your family to go without health insurance so don’t let your pet go without either. You can pick out health insurance for a low monthly price, so you won’t have to worry about working your budget around the new fee too much. Insurance really comes in handy for all of your pets needs though. For instance, most plans will cover your annual checkup as well as vaccinations, which could cost you at least 2 to 3 months of your insurance bill alone. Most insurance companies will also cover walk in visits and the majority of charges for medication. The policy also comes in handy when your pet needs a surgery or tests completed. Finally, some insurance policies will even help discount medical foods that your pet may need, which could save you big time in the long run.

7. Bulk Buys
Depending on your breed of dog, you may find yourself shopping for dog food a whole lot. One way to remedy this problem while saving a whole lot of money is to shop in bulk. You should be able to find bulk dog food at your local feed store as well as your favorite wholesale store, like Costco or Sams Club. You may want to try to find a good brand though as some of the bulk foods can be nutritionally lacking or bad for your pet. You can usually decide if a brand is good by looking at the label (if the natural ingredients are first, you’re better off), but you can also do a little browsing online to see which bulk brand is good for you. If you have a specific brand in mind and can’t find it in wholesale stores then contact the manufacturer and see if they can help you out. You may also consider buying bones in bulk, but make sure they are breed appropriate. Many stores as well as butcher shops should be able to help you out with bulk bones if you ask for them.

8. DIY Dog Toys
One of the biggest expenditures when it comes to dogs is their toys. Big dogs especially seem to go through toys like they’re going out of style. Although it’s easy to stop by a store and pick up a new one every time you throw one away, it may also run your budget down very quickly. You can easily remedy this problem by making your own toys. For instance, make a hole in an old tennis ball and string some rope through it. This makes a great chew toy as well as a tug-of-war toy that the two of you can use together. You may also want to invest in some frisbees as these cheap toys can be turned into a variety of items that will help save big time. Finally, if you’re looking for a simple toy for chewing then braid some rope together and you’ll be good to go!

9. Frequent Walks
You may be surprised that one of the best ways to save money on your new pet is to actually take it for a walk. The more walking you do the better off your pet will be, especially when they’re younger and need to burn off some energy. Walking your pet is a great way to keep them and you in shape which will mean you’ll have less medical problems on both ends of the spectrum. Apart from keeping you healthy you won’t have as many behavioral issues as the pet will get most of its energy out while walking, thus you’ll have more control with discipline and training. Walking also keeps pets from chewing, having accidents in the home and other mishaps that may have you pulling your hair out during the initial homecoming period. If you have children old enough to walk the dog in your home then it’s a great way to get them outdoors too. Not to mention, if you all take turns walking the pet your dog will get out even more!

10. Keep It Simple
When it comes to your dog, you may believe that princess dish was made just for her, but in reality it’s an expensive ploy to make you feel good. Your pet doesn’t need the red carpet so keep it simple wherever you can. You can even shop at the dollar store for buckets to feed your pets. This is especially good when it comes to those big breeds. Dollar store food storage containers also make easy feeding and watering bowls for your pets. You should also consider this when it comes to your dog house. You can pay a fortune for a premade home when building one is easy, fun and a lot cheaper. You’ll even be able to take more pride in your dog’s outdoor home. So, before you buy something try to consider other options that may be cheaper and easier decision. It’ll save you a whole lot more than you’d think.

Having a new dog can be a great gift for the whole family, but the costs can be out of this world. With these tips you don’t have to let the price hold you back! Now, you can enjoy having your new family member while also ensuring your rainy day fund stays put.

Although much of the world is still getting bombarded by snow storms, Spring Break is right around the corner. With March only a couple of weeks away you may want to start thinking about how you’re going to escape from your winter wonderland and enjoy the beautiful fresh air and warm sun. However, if you’re stressing over your budget the idea of a Spring Break may seem hopeless. There are ways you can get around some of the main financial aspects of taking a Spring Break vacation though. With a little thinking outside of the box and a whole lot of strategic planning you should be able to schedule your Spring Break getaway without stressing over the huge price tag.

1. Choose the Right Hotel
There’s a lot that can be said about the right hotel! If you choose correctly you can end up saving a whole lot of money throughout your trip. For starters, when you call to make a reservation you should ask if the room has a microwave and mini-fridge, or even if there is access to such items in the customers’ lounge. These two simple items will help you save more money than you can imagine on a trip. With these items in your room you can strategically buy groceries so you don’t have to worry about spending a lot of money on eating out. Groceries for a few days shouldn’t cost you a lot especially if you keep your expenditures on the cheap side. Even buying TV dinners will cut the cost of your meal needs substantially; however, picking up cold cuts and other sandwich supplies may cut your budget down so much more. A great hotel choice will also offer a continental breakfast, or snacks throughout the day. This is also a big budget saver. Finally, check and see if there’s a pool, workout room or other facilities that will keep you happy and busy during your stay. The more time you spend in the hotel the less money you may spend on the vacation.

2. Last Minute Specials
It’s always smart to try to get your Spring Break booked well in advance, but a lot of us don’t have this option. Between juggling finances and securing time off work, it’s a little hard to know if we can hop on a flight months in advance. There is still a way for all of us late planners to save though. Last minute deals can be found just about anywhere online. The first place you should check for these deals is on your airline tickets. Typically, you can be put on a wait list to see if a seat is available to you on some booked flights. This may mean you’ll have to be packed and ready to go at a moment’s notice, but it will be worth the savings. Other airlines may squeeze you in on red eye flights, depending on their policies. You can also look for these savings on hotels. Many businesses will lower the price of a night’s stay if they can’t fill the rooms. Of course, this may mean jumping between hotels, but the savings should be worth it. Finally, you should look for these savings for activities in the area. Sometimes people will cancel which will leave an open, and discounted, slot just for you!

3. Look For Discounts
One of the keys to saving big on your vacation is to actually look for discounts anywhere and everywhere. It may seem a little tasking at first, but after the first day of asking every venue about discounts you’ll be a seasoned pro by the end of the vacation. A lot of businesses will offer more discounts than you imagine, especially during tourist season, so if you have anything that may be considered discount worthy make sure to ask. One of the most popular discounts, especially during Spring Break, is student discounts. Make sure you have your student I. D. with you at all times though as you’ll probably have to flash it a few times. Other popular discounts would include military discounts, senior discounts and some may even be given for insurance companies.

4. Plan for a Cheaper Destination
If you’re planning to catch a flight to one of the top Spring Break locations then you may want to put a halt on those plans while you’re trying to save your budget. Instead of hitting the hot spots try to check out a less popular area during Spring Break. There’s plenty of sunny places to choose from, so do some research to find some place that suits your needs. Usually when you fly to a less popular destination the prices aren’t as expensive because they’re not as in demand. You can also get a room for less than you would in the peak areas. Of course, one of the best things about places that aren’t as traveled to is there will be less people, which means shorter lines, more space on the beach and generally less time waiting to have fun and more time actually having it. Between the reduced price of airline, hotel and transportation prices you should save a whole lot more than you’d expect. Of course, when you add on the savings of food and entertainment, you may start to wonder why you didn’t think to Spring Break like this before.

5. Camp Out
Spring Break is one of the prime times to enjoy a little camp out. It’s not too hot to make the trip unbearable and in most places the air will still be crisp and refreshing. The best thing is, you can camp a lot of places for little to nothing. If you’re not going far then you may base your vacation around your camp out. You’ll be able to spend more time with Mother Nature and won’t be tempted to go shopping and spend lots of money. Of course, even if you’re traveling for Spring Break you might want to skip out on the hotel and pitch a tent on the beach. Many beaches won’t allow you to do this without a permit, so make sure you know the rules before you plan anything out. However, many beaches have designated camping areas, so with any luck you can plan your Spring Break around one of these locations. Although you won’t have the warm bed you may have in a hotel room, you will be able to fall asleep to the beautiful sound of crashing waves every night and that’s a comfort that money doesn’t have to pay for.

6. Skip the Restaurants
Eating out often ends up being a huge part of the vacationing process. There’s a lot of delicious foods out there to try and who doesn’t love having a nice dinner with friends when you’re away from home? Of course, the price of eating out doesn’t always flatter the budget we’re working with, especially if we already stretched things out to afford the price of a hotel and airline. If you don’t have a lot of money to spare on your trip then don’t eat out 3 times a day. Instead, find a local grocery store, preferably outside of the tourist area, and stock up on foods that are easy to eat throughout the day. This will allow you to enjoy more of the vacation without stressing out over your budget. This may even help you feel more energized throughout the day as you’ll have less heavy or unhealthy foods in your system so you can enjoy the time you have out a lot more. There’s even foods you can buy to protect you from the sun! If you do feel the need to eat out, or there’s something special in the area you just have to try then keep it to a minimum. One or two restaurants throughout the duration of the trip may be the best way to save on money while still getting more out of the experience.

7. Staycation
There’s no law saying Spring Break has to be spent elsewhere, which is why a Staycation might be right up your alley. There is a whole lot we miss when we’re caught up with work and trying to stay in tune with our personal life, so it may be rewarding just to get out and see what’s brewing in your own neck of the woods. Try out a new restaurant you’ve been meaning to check out. Enjoy spending some time on a new hiking or biking trail. Or, you may even want to simply go out to the movies. Whatever you choose to do, try to look at it with fresh eyes and absorb the relaxation time so you can feel renewed when the staycation is over. If you want to save even more money then try to look for some free events. There may be live music in the park, a new art exhibit or something entirely unexpected. These freebies will help keep you busy throughout the holiday without forcing you to spend anything, which means you can return to the hustle and bustle without worrying about the amount of money you spent.

8. Public Transit
If you have to travel far to get to tourist attractions during your vacation then taxis or driving yourself may not be the best of options. Taxis will add up your spending very quickly and you may not be able to budget accordingly due to varying taxi fares. Driving yourself also means spending more money on gas, but the biggest expenditures of all will have to be for parking which could cost you more than $20 a day! The best thing you can do is stick with public transit whenever possible. Typically you can get a daily travel pass for a few dollars which will allow you to get around town for next to nothing throughout the day. You may also want to consider renting public bikes to add fun to the traveling aspect of your vacation.

9. Groupon
Social media inspired coupon sites are a great way to save money on entertainment and dining while you’re on vacation. Before you head out try to keep an eye on the latest deals for the area you plan to travel to. This will allow you to plan your trip around cheap entertainment so you’re less tempted to spend money where you shouldn’t. Groupons are perfect for families on vacation, but are also great for friends that plan to travel and stay together throughout the trip. Typically the more people you can get in on the deal the less you’ll have to pay per person, which is great for tight budgets. You may also be able to get into some of the top restaurants in the area using this method!

10. Budget
Before you set foot out of your front door make sure you have a game plan for the trip. Budget out a figure so you know what you have to spend throughout the trip. Try to have the airline and hotel paid for before you leave and then pull out cash for the rest of the spending you plan on doing. While you’re on vacation only pay for things using cash. It will help you stick to the budget and not go overboard with frivolous expenditures. If it helps, keep money for food and other items in separate envelopes so you don’t stray. You may end up coming home with money to spare.

Spring Break is a much needed time for relaxation and sunshine, so don’t skip out on the fun because your finances are too tight. These ten tips will help you have the time of your life, without the price tag so you can feel refreshed until your next vacation.

Looking good costs money, but sometimes our makeup budget doesn’t always coincide with our love for shopping for new supplies. From the wide variety of colors to the must have cover up options, there’s a lot of ways your budget can be destroyed by your cosmetic choices. You don’t have to go overboard with makeup shopping anymore though. With these ten simple tricks you can get more out of each item you purchase while saving a whole lot of money on the shopping process. Now, you can enjoy playing with your look without worrying about how much product you’re using. With a few technique changes and a little know how, your makeup collection may look like it belongs on the set of the movies, which can’t hurt your style, right?

1. Use All of It
One of the biggest ways we lose money on our makeup investments is by throwing the items out before they’re actually finished. Sometimes it may seem impossible to get the last contents out of a container, but there’s ways to stretch your makeup even further if you’re up to the challenge. For starters, when you feel like your make up container may be empty then simply cut it open. There will be enough make up there for a couple of uses if not more if you’re using it conservatively. You may want to store it in a ziplock to prevent messes, but other than that you should be able to stretch your next purchase out a few more days. If you think your mascara is running dry then simply add some warm water and shake the container. Before you know it you’ll have lovely lashes again without having to buy more. You can also do this with tinted lip gloss! Perfume is another expensive item that can easily go to waste if we don’t bother with the last drops in the bottle. Rather than throwing it out, put the drops into unscented body lotion and you’ll be able to enjoy the smell for months longer!

2. Recycle
Recycling is a big deal with many of today’s products. It helps keep beauty products more ecofriendly and allows you to leave less of a carbon footprint for the next generation. With that in mind, many high end companies will actually take your old product cases and exchange them for new items or credit towards new items. You may have to check to see which brands do this and where you can turn in your old containers, but it will be well worth it once you know how and where to recycle this way. Make sure you’ve removed all of the contents from the containers this will make the process more efficient. You can also transform your containers and brushes into other things. For instance, mascara brushes for your high end products can be reused for cheaper product so you can achieve a better over all look. You can also use these to get rid of flyaways and to clean the home. Some containers can also be reused for homemade lotion or makeup, which will help save money and the environment. A lot of companies are also trying to switch their products to plastics that can be recycled, so keep an eye on your products to see how you should properly dispose of them.

3. Refresh Old Supplies
Old supplies don’t always mean they belong in the trash bin. There’s actually a few ways you can make your older supplies feel like you just bought them, which is perfect when you’re looking to save money on makeup. For starters, old mascara can be dry, sticky, clumpy and an absolute nightmare to work with. Rather than giving it the boot try adding a drop of saline to the container and shaking it up. In no time you’ll have easy to work with mascara that will make you feel fantastic. Don’t have saline around? Don’t worry, all you need is a mug of hot water. Place the mascara in the water and let it sit for a moment or two. Powdered products can also be a total nightmare when they break, especially if it’s your favorite shade of eye shadow. This can easily be fixed by placing alcohol in the container and smoothing out the powder. Once dried you’ll be able to use it like new. You can even stick a cotton ball into the container to prevent it from breaking.

4. DIY Supplies
Makeup and accessories doesn’t always have to be made in stores! In fact, you can do a whole lot with supplies from home that cost next to nothing. For instance, instead of buying make up remover you can easily replace it with Johnsons & Johnsons Baby Soap which is gentle on the face and incredibly affordable. You can also craft special wipes using baby wipes, coconut oil and water. If you’re a fan of thick and long lashes then don’t pay extra for special formulas, instead, apply baby powder to the lashes before using your mascara. Easy to apply eyeliner is also a breeze to make at home using only charcoal and coconut oil. It may seem too easy to believe, but you can go crazy with all of the DIY make up tips. One trick that is especially helpful is to heat up broken lipstick using a match or blow dryer. You can blend old lipsticks together this way, or create your own and add it to an old tube. You can also make those lips look even plumper by adding cinnamon oil to your lips. Finally, you can even recreate your favorite mineral makeup which isn’t the cheapest makeup on the planet.

5. Never Shop At Eye Level
Shopping for makeup can be a lot of fun until you make your way to the checkout counter and find out how much you’ve really spent. Rather than letting this be a surprise, cut down on your temptation by avoiding the eye level areas on the shelf at all costs. Stores will place their more expensive items here because they want you to buy them; however you may find items of equal or greater beauty on the top or bottom of the shelf. The best thing is, these items will cost you a whole lot less than those attention grabbers calling your name. If you can’t avoid the section, which it is hard to do, you may want to go ahead and pick out items you like. Then, once you have a good idea of what you’re looking for, match the items with those you find on the lower or higher shelves. You may even find that you enjoy some of the shades you find there even more than the shades you originally picked out!

6. Shop Online
When it comes to makeup, shopping online is probably one of the best choices you can make. Local stores may present you with deal every now and then, but shopping online is the easiest way to ensure you get a good deal every time. You not only get a chance to shop around, but you can shop directly from your favorite brands website in order to save more money. Shopping online may also provide you with a greater selection as many stores won’t carry every product you’re looking for especially if the item isn’t on the popular list. Many sites will also allow you to sign up for their mailing list which will offer you plenty of online coupons that will cut down on the total price of your purchase. Of course, for many people one of the biggest draws to shopping online is the free samples that come with most orders. This is a great way to try out new items and will help stretch out your makeup supply.

7. Look For Generics
The makeup world is filled with top brands that will make you feel like you’re a star. Of course, these brands could also lead you to shell out up to $50 or more for one product item! If you’re on a budget this isn’t exactly the way to cut back on spending. There is a way to enjoy some of the same looks without spending a small fortune. This is easily done by looking for the generic version of your supplies. Although you may feel lost at first, doing this will get much easier as the time passes. In fact, there’s even many blogs dedicated to comparing makeup brands with their generic counterparts. If you follow these guides you should be able to enjoy generics with little research on your end. With all the great hints online, there’s no reason why you’ll need to spend so much for makeup when a generic item will run you less than $5!

8. Flash Sales
Although it may be a bit harder to plan your shopping excursions, flash sales are a great way to get more for your money. Most online stores hosts these from time to time, but even some local stores will offer random temporary savings. The best way to keep in touch with flash sales is to subscribe to your favorite brands mailing list. Whether its online or locally, they tend to give members or subscribers a heads up before the sale begins so they can be ready to shop. Some members may even get a discount on sales items, so make sure to sign up whenever you like a new website. If you’re not sure about shopping this way then try to refrain from buying makeup until a sale pops up. This will allow you to save up so you can see how much money you’ll actually spend when a flash sale arrives. You may be surprised by how little the price tag is.

9. Buy Bulk
If you like a specific type or color of makeup then you may want to look into buying it in bulk. A lot of the time if you get in touch with the manufacture they will cut you a deal on your bulk purchase which will save more money in the long run. You may also be able to find the items in bulk stores like Sams Club or Costco. These items will definitely have a price cut and will help your makeup budget last longer. Often, makeup is released for only a short time so if you’re not interested in the classic looks then you should stock up before your choice disappears. Sometimes, companies will release an item at one price and then we’re they’re about to take it off the market the prices will go up for those looking to stock up. So, rather than buying late in the game try to stock up while you still can. If buying bulk you should leave your products in a cold environment like the refrigerator to keep them fresh.

10. Use What You Have
Using the supplies you have is one of the easiest ways not to spend money. We often end up wanting more supplies before we’ve finished what we have which means more of our product goes to waste. By choosing pieces you know you like you’ll be able to stick with your look for longer which will help you cut down on spending so you can occasionally splurge on something new and exciting. If you do see something you think you must have then promise yourself you’ll get it when you use up another product. This will help instill disciple while shopping.

Makeup is a great aspect of the fashion world, but it can really add to monthly expenditures. With these simple tips you’ll be able to enjoy a fun new look from time to time without having to constantly shop for new supplies. With a few budgeting techniques you’ll feel like the fashion world is even more affordable!

Nothing is quite as stressful as sitting down and planning out your wedding. There’s a lot of options to choose from which could leave you tossing and turning over each tiny detail. Of course, when you start to consider your actual budget for the event you may just want to crawl into the fetal position until you’re pronounced husband or wife. There’s way to avoid the huge price tag of a wedding though. Although most people aim for extravagance you can have a totally adorable wedding for a price that won’t empty your savings account. All it takes is a few simple changes and the ability to think out of the box. These ten tips will guide you through your journey so you can dream up an unforgettable wedding and afford it!

1. Home-Based Ceremony
Venues are one of the top items on your mind when you’re planning out your wedding. If you don’t have a place to get hitched then the rest of it is pretty much obsolete, right? So, instead of springing for an exciting venue or even your local church, you may want to consider getting married at your home. Of course, this can also work for a close relative or friend if they seem to have a better location and more space. Cutting out the price of a venue will save you thousands of dollars. All you need to do is decide if you’re having it indoors or out. From there, simply make room for the event. This may require moving around furniture or even placing a cute gazebo area for the bride and groom to stand under. Seating will probably be your biggest issue but you can always rent seats for a decent price. Of course, if you plan on having a short service then asking people to stand is fine. Just make sure you have seats for anyone that needs them.

2. Free Reception
Location is a big deal when it comes to the reception too. Like the ceremony, you don’t have to go all out for this either. In fact, there’s many ways you can find a free reception location so you can add on to your thousands in savings. One idea is to, again, host it at your home or someone’s home that you’re close to. Ideal locations would be places with pools or large spaces. Accepting neighbors is also a plus as you’ll want somewhere you can play music without having to deal with constant noise complaints. Another great place to host is at a lake or beach. Most places won’t require permits, but you may want to look up any legal information before you send out the invitations and finalize your plans. Some couple’s even plan their receptions in national parks. The beautiful landscape really adds to the vibe and often you can host free of charge when you submit a permit application.

3. Stream Your Music
Another problem people face in the planning phase is whether or not they should hire a DJ or a band. Both have their benefits, but they also have their price tags and they’re usually not very pretty. Rather than spending a whole lot of money on your musical entertainment why not opt to stream your music? This actually gives you full control over what your guests are going to listen to and when they’re going to hear it. This doesn’t just add a personal touch to the night, but it will also help you keep to the schedule you planned out. For instance, if you choose soothing music for toasts you’ll be able to move right into them, then when it’s time to dance the music will call everyone out onto the dance floor for you. The best thing is, a lot of streaming programs are free so you can build up a playlist or even use one of their lists without having to worry about spending hundreds on yet another service. Simply hook up your laptop to some speakers and your receptions will be unforgettable.

4. Thrift Store Charm
Decorations are pretty important if you want to make a statement at your reception, but as you browse through catalogs you may recognize one trend, they’re all expensive. Rather than buying all of your décor new you may want to take your wedding party out for a day of thrift shopping. There’s a lot of items out there that would make amazing center pieces so let your imagination sore. Remember, not everything has to match! One table can have one centerpiece while the other table could have something entirely different. As long as it seems to follow a theme you’re all good. You can even put things together to make center pieces, which will add even more of your personality to it. Another set of items you should look for is plates. You can find a lot of beautiful eatery in thrift stores which will give your reception a fun and vintage vibe. Once again, your plates don’t have to match. The best thing is, if you choose not to keep the items you buy, you can always run them back to the thrift store for a tax deduction receipt.

5. Sew Your Dress
For a lot of women the dress is the star of the show. It’s the look your husband is going to remember for the rest of his life which adds some pressure to the decision. Unfortunately, it may be pretty tempting to go for the more expensive dresses; however, there is one way you can cut down on the price while still getting an amazing dress. The first way is to ask a seamstress you know and trust to do it. If they’re a close friend or family they may even volunteer to do it for free. Thus, your only expense is the fabric and sewing materials needed for the dress. This will also give you more control over the style of your dress and will ensure it provides you with a fit that is perfectly suited for your body. Of course, if you’re a great seamstress you may want to take on the challenge yourself. This will allow you to easily create just what you want and may even make the dress more meaningful to you and your future spouse.

6. Stick with Snacks
Feeding your guests is going to tack on a lot to the final costs of your wedding too. However, there’s no rule saying you need to have a four course meal ready. Rather than go all out on foods many people aren’t that interested in you could keep it simple by providing snacks rather than a full on meal. This will allow guests to not feel confined to a table and will add more fun to the reception. You don’t have to pick really extravagant snacks either. In fact, if you have a theme then you can alter the snacks around it. Popcorn is usually a big hit and you can mix it up by adding different flavored popcorn balls. Foods that can be dipped in a series of sauces is also a winner. This can include vegetables, fruits, chips, cheese or anything else your creativity comes up with. Finger foods are also a must, especially bite sized pizza and sandwiches. If you want to go the extra mile then try making some sliders. Of course, if you want to create a cozy meal for your guests then set up a soup and sandwich bar. This is especially great for cold or rainy day weddings. The best thing is, these items don’t require a caterer and can be made quickly.

7. Homemade Cake
Apart from the dress, the cake is the other star of the show which inspires a lot of people to spend a whole lot of money on it. The thing is, cake is cake and yes this is your wedding cake, but no one is going to complain about it if it tastes good. So, one remedy for the cake situation is to bake your own or ask a friend with a baking skill set to lend a hand. This allows you to choose the kind of cake you plan on making without having to negotiate with a baker. If you want to try out special decorations then try practicing a bit first. You may even find that you have a talent for it or generally just love doing it. If a big cake isn’t even on your radar then bake a whole lot of cupcakes. It’ll make it easier for guests to eat while enjoying the celebration and they’re a lot of fun to decorate. You can bake a small cake for you and your partner to cut into for the traditional aspect of the celebration.

8. Craft Everything
Weddings are a great way to get your crafting time in! There’s no reason you should have to spend a fortune on décor, invitations or any other item that can be made. In fact, you can even take your crafting skills up a notch by making your own bouquet out of paper flowers. It’ll look amazing when you walk down the aisle and you’ll also be able to save it and share the story with your kids. You can also use the paper flowers as centerpieces or a way to direct guests to their tables. Old curtains can be transformed into table cloths or table runners which will add charm to your wedding for even less. You may also want to craft your own invitations. If you plan on having a travel theme you may consider sending out postcards as your invitations! If you’re unsure where to start look online for cute ideas and then transform them to suit your needs!

9. Entertainment
Keeping your guests busy is actually easier than it looks. One of the easiest steps is to set up a dance floor and get the music going. Choosing games is also an easy way to appease guests and will keep the youngest of guests to the oldest busy. You can choose games like horse shoes, limbo and even hot potato to keep everyone smiling. There’s a lot of wedding reception games online, so make sure to look around a bit before choosing. You can also set up a fun trivia game, raffle prizes or even karaoke or video game competitions. If you’re catering to a younger crown then beer pong has been a recent trend. Make sure you utilize your venue too. If you’re near water then add swimming, races or diving scavenger hunts to the mix!

10. Disposable Cameras
Wedding photographers don’t normally run cheap and unless you can find a family member or friend to help you out you may end up without a photographer. Rather than forking over lots of cash, try placing disposable cameras on each of your guests’ seats. Throughout the ceremony and reception, guests can take pictures of their favorite moments. When everyone leaves set out a bin for the cameras and then develop each one. You don’t have to do them all at once if you’re short on money. However, you’ll get an assortment of amazing photos from many different points of views that you can use to fill your wedding albums. If you have to have professional photos then try to do a simple wedding set with a photographer sometime before or after you get married. This won’t take long and thus will save money.

Weddings are one of the biggest moments in life and they can be one of the most expensive. Don’t let your wedding run your savings account down though. With these simple tips you should be able to enjoy the wedding you’ve been dreaming of without spending thousands of dollars on items you don’t really need. With these tips you may even get more out of your honeymoon!

If you’re looking for a great time to get your budget up to speed then there’s no time to save quite like the month of February. Sure, this month is the shortest of the year, which usually means less days of work and due dates creep back up even faster. However, there are some amazing things in the month of February that may actually get you ahead of the game. Not only will you be able to prep your family’s budget for spring, but you’ll also put your household on the right track for the rest of the year. With these ten money saving opportunities and techniques you may even find that the shortest month brings you the largest profit of all!

1. Shop Presidents’ Day Sales
You gotta love the presidents. They helped start a solid foundation for the country and keep it running, no matter what political criticism they receive. Once a year their special day also earns you a day off work as well as a little shopping spree. Presidents’ Day sales pop up everywhere before the holiday begins, which means you get to save more for a lot longer. These sales tend to range from cars to basic household needs, which allows you to get out there and get what you need to get your home running smoothly. Before you go out shopping try to make a bit of a game plan though. Do some research to find out where you can get the best price or who is willing to negotiate the most. You may also try to shop a bit early to beat the crowds. Usually, these sales last a bit longer than the holiday, especially if you’re looking to buy the big ticket items like cars or furniture, so make sure to take your time when purchasing. Just because you’re shopping during the sales period doesn’t mean you’re going to get the best deal out of the store though. Make sure to look up retail value to ensure you’re not just being “sold” a sales price, when it isn’t really a deal at all.

2. Stock Up On Meat
Meat is probably one of the priciest items on your grocery shopping list and often when you’re on a budget you may end up buying the cheapest items possible. However, thanks to Valentine’s Day, you’re probably going to get some amazing deals on your favorite meats. Typically stores will stock up on an assortment of meats, especially high quality steaks and sea food, for all the lovebirds planning to cook a special meal on the holiday. After Valentine’s Day has come and gone the meat gets heavily discounted in order to get it off the shelf before its sell by date expires. The day after Valentine’s Day make sure to get to your local grocery store as soon as possible so you can find the best cuts for the discounted price. You may also want to consider bringing a cooler bag with you so you can get to a few different stores. Of course, waiting even longer will ensure you get an even lower price, but if you live in a heavily populated area acting fast is usually the safest bet. One thing you should keep in mind when shopping for meats in bulk is how long you can store them in the freezer. You don’t want to waste a lot of money on meat you’re not going to be able to eat, so shop accordingly.

3. Get To The Dentist
Not too many people actually enjoy getting to the dentist, but choosing February as your month to go is a very wise choice. For starters, getting to the dentist can save you a fortune in preventive care. Getting a filling or two here and there won’t run you near as much money as going to in for root canals, bridges and having teeth pulled. You’ll be thankful you had the cleaning before any damage was done. February is also National Child’s Dental Month which means you might get a few discounts if you make an appointment for your kids during this month. The more you take your children to the dentist, the less likely they will be afraid to go and the greater the chance they will actually continue on the practice as an adult. Of course, also choosing an appointment in February will set your next routine checkup in August, which gets the job done right before school begins, thus taking less time away from school and work.

4. Check Out Exercise Equipment
New Year’s Resolution still not taking off? This may be your chance to get your body moving without spending a small fortune. During the month of February a lot of treadmills and ellipticals go on sale. Whether you’re shopping online or in your local stores you should be able to save a few hundred dollars on these items. This will allow you to buy the machine you’ve actually been wanting rather than a cheaper model that’s going to have you back on the couch in a couple of weeks. Shopping for these items during February will also give you a chance to cancel your free trial or monthly subscription to your gym. This can put hundreds to thousands back in your pocket each year which adds on to the savings of the February sales. Not to mention, allowing yourself to get healthier will cut down on medical expenses and may even help you kick expensive bad habits like smoking or eating out.

5. Enjoy Produce
February is an outstanding month for anyone that loves shopping in the produce section. In January, winter produce was about all you could get at a decent price, which is okay since there’s some pretty delicious and healthy items that are in season during the winter. Don’t worry, these items aren’t going anywhere nor are their prices, for now anyway. Before the items are gone you should start stocking up on them while they’re still affordable. This may mean canning or freezing them, but it will still help you save money when that piece of fruit you’ve been craving is three times the price during the summer. February is also when some of the early spring items begin to roll in. These items may not be as big as the items you’ll get in March and April, but they’ll be a fantastic price that you shouldn’t miss out on. Again, simply can or freeze these items and your family will be set for a while when it comes to fruit and veggies that haven’t been altered with preservatives.

6. Book Your Spring Break
Have you been dreaming about your spring time escape? Well, now is the perfect time to book it. Spring Break isn’t far away, which means if you haven’t mapped out your plans you should probably get on it, like yesterday. Many people begin planning out their Spring Break before Christmas even rolls around, so February may be your last chance to get caught up. During this time you should be booking your adventure. You may want to start on your flight as this is generally the priciest item on the list. Booking early doesn’t just save you money but helps ensure you won’t get bumped. Hotels are also important to book as rooms fill up quickly, especially when you’re planning to go somewhere popular or warm. Finally, book the events you want to partake in. For instance, if you want to take some scuba diving lessons or want a relaxed afternoon of horseback riding, you should secure the slots as soon as you know you’re going to be there. These activities fill up fast and it would be unfortunate to get to your destination and find out the activities are already booked up or are three times the advertised price.

7. Savor Chocolate
If you love the taste of chocolate then February is one of the top months to enjoy it. Although you may have to wait for half of the month to pass, as soon as Valentine’s Day is over you’ll be ready to get your fill for a fraction of the price. Most stores will toss their Valentine’s Day items straight into clearance as soon as the holiday is over. This means you can get some pretty tasty candy for up to 75% off in some cases. If you like simple chocolates then this could cost you only a few scents of box. Of course, if you have developed a refined taste in chocolate then you may also be able to get some of the top brands for a few dollars. You don’t have to worry about eating it all at once either. Simply stick it in your freezer and you’ll be able to get a delicious flavor for months longer!

8. Budget For Charities
Although you may not feel like it’s saving you money, pulling out a few dollars for charities may save you in the long run. Typically during this period an assortment of children will be knocking on your door asking for money. From Girl and Boy Scouts to school children working on fundraiser money, their puppy dog eyes may guilt you into spending too much on their cookies, candy, popcorn and other snacks. Instead of making several impulse buys, pull out the money you intend to spend on these items and have it ready to go when you hear the doorbell. This will allow you to put in smaller order forms so you won’t spend as much. Not to mention, having cash ready to go makes everyone’s lives a little easier.

9. File Taxes
Even though you don’t technically have to have your taxes in until April it doesn’t hurt to get them in as soon as you can. In fact, getting your taxes in early will ensure you can take care of any filing problems you may have faster. It also means you’ll get your refund sooner, if you’re due one. Getting taxes done earlier also means you can get in with your accountant easier or you can make more time for you to do them yourself. With less stress on the accountant’s end you should be charged less or if you choose to give it a go on your own your fee with be absolutely nothing, which allows you to spend the whole refund where it will benefit your family the most.

10. Turn the Heater Off
It may not be right now, but at some point in February the weather is going to warm up a little bit. This is a great opportunity to turn off the heater and enjoy a smaller gas or electric bill. Although you may not be able to avoid running it at night, keeping it off or set at a more reasonable temperature during the daylight will cut your price down substantially. If you’re having trouble with the change then make sure to layer clothes while you’re inside during the day. Baking is also a great way to warm up the home and will feel your house with delicious smells. Doing this will also help cut down on baking in the summer as you can freeze loaves of breads and other treats you decide to make. Before you know it, those layers will become fewer and you’ll be able to enjoy all the money you saved by simply turning your heat down.

Although February may seem to pass like a blur, the savings you can get during this month will certainly help you out throughout the rest of the year. There’s lots of ways to get your home ready for spring thanks to these savings which will help you feel more refreshed and ready to tackle any budgeting problems that may come your way.

The Chinese New Year is right around the corner which means it’s time to start planning for Spring as well as a 2 week celebration for the New Year! You don’t have to let the long celebration scare you away though. There’s a lot of ways to ring in the Chinese New Year or Lunar New Year, without going overboard on your spending. This holiday is designed to make way for the new, so don’t worry about pouring a lot of money into the occasion and causing new financial problems. Instead, check out these ten tips to keep your holiday celebration on track. Without the stress of putting cash into the holiday you may be able to sit back, enjoy the festivities and start the New Year off on the right foot.

1. Natural Cleaning
The Chinese New Year falls right around the spring equinox which may explain why cleaning is one of the traditions of this holiday. Generally, people will clean their homes from top to bottom throughout the 15 day celebration, which may mean you’re going to need to a lot more cleaning supplies. However, this doesn’t mean you have to head to the store and purchase a lot of chemicals to get the job done. Instead, consider items you already have in the home. You may be surprised as to what can actually do the cleaning and how fast it’ll work. If you have a six pack (or more) of soda then put the beverage to work. Magically, this popular drink can clean toilets as well as get stains out of pots and pans. Another great household product to use is white vinegar or apple cider vinegar. Both do a lot around the house so make sure to look and see what you can accomplish with each of them. You can also you use baking soda to accomplish a lot of tough jobs around the home. Other than these supplies you should try to use clothes that may not be usable anymore as rags to save on paper towel and sponges. When you’ve finished the cleaning try donating your unwanted items to a good cause.

2. Re-Use Supplies
Although the Chinese New Year is all about celebrating the new and bringing harmony to your life with new items, you may want to reconsider this when it comes to your party supplies. Since you only get to celebrate the Chinese New Year once a year, there’s no reason to toss out perfectly good ornaments. Instead, when the celebration is over carefully pack them away and bring them out for the holiday next year. If you feel like you must have something new each year then limit it to one item to help save on money and space. This will allow you to budget your money towards items that actually do need replaced.

3. DIY Decor
Nothing will bring the family together quite like craft time for the holiday. There’s a lot of amazing crafting projects your family can take on to help create ample decor for your holiday celebration. The best thing is, creating your own decor costs next to nothing so you won’t have to spend your holiday budget on items you shouldn’t have to. One great example of a craft befitting the holiday is paper lanterns. These are easier to make than you think and look incredible in dining areas. You can even keep these out all year if you like the way they turn out. Paper fans are a great project for younger kids and they look amazing hanging on the wall or ceiling. You can also make a dragon puppet with basic supplies. This is usually a great way to entertain kids even when craft time is over. Finally, you can have the kids color print outs of their New Year animal. These animals can easily be found online. However, this year is the year of the goat so you can stick to this animal if you want everyone working on the same project.

4. Bulk Foods
Food is one of the easiest things to spend too much money on throughout the holiday. There’s a lot of amazing traditional dishes to whip up, but sometimes the ingredients may be a bit of a stretch, especially if you’re planning on feeding a household or party of people. Instead of sticking to the more expensive dishes you’ve never tried to make you should stick to dishes that you can make in bulk. Buying for bulk ingredients is a world easier and will help save you a whole lot of money too. One quick recipe to follow is pot stickers. These are usually a favorite for young and old and can be made in huge batches with very cheap ingredients. If you don’t want to spend the entire holiday cooking then try to make huge batches of the dish that can be easily heated up when meal times occur. Another simple meal idea is rice. You can use it in many different ways or serve plain. This is probably one of the cheapest things to make and if you have a rice maker you can have a fresh batch going in no time at all. There’s a lot of recipes online to choose from, so try to pick items you know you can afford in bulk and that sound like they’ll be filling as well as tasty!

5. Explore Celebrations
Throwing your own celebration can be a lot of fun, but it’s also a lot of cleanup and money. Instead of planning out your own party you should explore some of the community celebrations in your area. Some areas will have huge celebrations that involve parades, firework displays as well as traditional dances. Typically, these celebrations can be attended for free or they cost a small fee. Either way, you won’t have to worry about planning and spending money on your celebration when you attend. During these festivities you should be able to see fine cultural elements that you wouldn’t get at home. You may also get to try some new dishes that won’t cost you an arm and a leg to create in your own kitchen. Of course, one of the highlights, especially for children, is seeing the large dragon puppets as well as the spectacular firework displays.

6. Give to Children
During the Chinese New Year, it’s a common tradition to pass out red envelopes to those you love. Inside the envelopes is an undisclosed amount of money. As you can imagine, this could get pretty pricey if you’re planning on giving money to everyone in your family. Instead, try to keep it simple by only giving to the children in your life. Young children obviously would only get a small amount, but as the child grows you can increase to suit their age. With only children receiving funds for the holiday your budget won’t go under and you’ll still be able to participate in some of the traditions that have been carried on from generation to generation. This will add to the magic of the holiday for children who are just learning the customs and will also give them a bit of money to spend on items relating to the holiday like small fireworks or toys.

7. Consider Gift Cards
If you do plan to give out money during the holiday celebration then you may want to try out gift cards. Technically, this is still following the traditions and some people may actually like the surprise a bit more. Although it may not seem like it, gift cards can actually save you money in the long run. For instance, there’s a lot of gift card pages online that sell these items at a lower price. You can also get used gift cards that have more money on them than what you pay for them. This will actually help you get more bang for your buck which can’t hurt, right? Also, if you have a membership to a bulk store then you can easily get a great deal on a set of gift cards. Sometimes you may even get a gift card free or at least a small amount off the price you would have paid regularly. You can also make the gift cards more personal by choosing stores kids like to shop in or restaurants people enjoy.

8. Clearance Fireworks
Fireworks play a pretty big role when it comes to Chinese New Year. Everyone loves to see the beautiful fireworks lighting up the night sky as the New Year is welcomed in. Unfortunately, fireworks can be pretty pricey and during this time of year they may be pretty hard to find. There’s one easy and cheap way to get the fireworks you want at a price that won’t hurt your budget though. That is, shop clearance. After major holidays like New Year’s and the 4th of July, you should be able to hit the stands one more time before they pack up until the next holiday. Usually, during this time stands will mark down their items which makes them more convenient for you to buy. Simply store them away properly and you’ll be ready to go throughout the Chinese New Year celebration.

9. Buy in Bulk
There’s a lot of items you can save a whole lot of money on if you simply buy them in bulk. Throughout the holiday you’ll want to make sure you have plenty of paper lanterns to light up your meal times and encourage guests to feel comfortable as you share stories, legends and goals. These lanterns can be bought in bulk in most stores, especially during this time of year. Of course, you can also buy the supplies to light the lamps or make the lanterns yourself. Another great item to consider buying is red envelopes. You’re going to want these in bulk, especially if you have a large family. Of course, buying in bulk will also mean you’ll have plenty to spare over the next couple of years. If you plan on serving your guests food on paper plates or using paper napkins then it may be a great idea to go ahead and buy these items in bulk too in order to help combat the extra cost.

10. Set A Budget
It’s easy to want to join in on the celebration without thinking about money. There’s lots of memorabilia as well as amazing food to buy throughout the celebration. You may also want to spoil your family with tidings of money. Although it may seem like a lot of fun at first, when you realize how much you spent you may be feeling pretty frantic. Before the celebration begins you should sit down and create a budget to ensure you don’t go overboard. You may want to put away your checkbooks and debit/credit cards during the celebration to help you stay on budget even more. When you write out your budget you should consider food, souvenirs, ticket costs as well as other holiday treats the family may want to do. Then, work out how much you will be able to give to the members of your family. With the numbers already set in stone you won’t have to go back and reevaluate your budget, thus you’ll be able to keep right on tack without even thinking about it!

The Chinese New Year can be an amazing time to spend with your family and friends. Not only are you getting a chance to bring in the new season of life, but you’ll also help your family start off the season right. This will help balance out the way your home moves throughout the rest of the year. The best things is, you can have a great time and with these budgeting tips you won’t have to think twice about the money!

With Valentine’s Day on its way, you may be thinking of ideas to help you treat someone special to an amazing date without spending a small fortune. Dating, as you know, can be pretty pricey. It doesn’t matter if you’re just playing the field or if you’ve been with someone for decades, planning a date can be stressful due to the money that has to be spent. There is, however, a lot of date ideas that you can plan that will cost you next to nothing. Whether you’re shooting for a Valentine’s Day romance or just want to take your spouse out for a night without the kids, these dating tips will make your romance spark. The best thing is, most of them can be used throughout the year so you can enjoy the savings whenever money’s tight.

1. Leave Early
A lot of people tend to plan dates for the evening, which is convenient for work schedules and helps you enjoy the night life in your area. However, if you can, you should plan a date that begins in the afternoon. For starters, early dates can take advantage of the early bird special at a lot of restaurants. These specials usually take place during the restaurants downtime and will cost you a few dollars less per plate, which adds up in the long run. Early dates also work out perfectly for the movies. During the afternoon you can enjoy the price of a matinee ticket which is usually a couple of dollars cheaper. You may also want to check to see if your movie theater has twilight hours, which usually take place around 3 in the afternoon and cost even less than a matinee ticket. During the afternoon there’s also a whole lot of activities you can enjoy that won’t be as crowded. Thus, you’ll get more for what you’re paying for. You may even get an afternoon discount at some places!

2. Share
There’s nothing more romantic than sharing, so when you go out keep this mind. It’ll come in handy if you choose to get a snack or add on a dessert to your meal. Typically, most restaurants will add a larger size of an order to the menu for only a few scents extra. This is a great time to upsize your snack and share with your date. You’ll both get plenty of food, as generally the larger size almost doubles the smallest, and you’ll come out of the restaurant spending less than you’d imagine. The same can be said when it comes to ordering dessert. Typically, if you’ve had a large meal, dessert is a treat to help change the taste of some foods. Thus, you don’t need a lot of it. You should also implement this rule when it comes to ordering wine. You both don’t need to order two different types, instead order a bottle and share. It’ll come out costing a little less and you’ll probably get more wine out of the deal.

3. Great Outdoors
There’s one date location that is pretty much always free, that is, the great outdoors. In this day and age we tend to forget about the wonderful fresh air and warming sunlight, but if you’re in the mood for a budgeted date it may be time to get reacquainted. Your options are endless when it comes to outdoor dates. For starters, you can take a simple walk in a park and share a picnic. You may also want to elevate the fitness level by taking a hike or going cycling. If the two of you like a specific sport then try to find an area where you can play it together. You may be surprised as to how working out together can bring the relationship closer. You can also plan a date according to the weather. If there’s snow then find a great place to go sledding, build a snowman or have a simple snowball fight. Warmer weather may inspire you to get out and enjoy some time at the beach or lake. Windy weather is perfect for flying a kite. Of course, camping is a fun way to enjoy one another’s company throughout the year. Especially if you enjoy cuddling up beneath the stars!

4. Look for Freebies
Sometimes waiting on dates can be one of the best ways to save money. If you live near a city or you have cultural establishments in your area then you might want to check in and see if you can secure a free day to plan your date. A lot art and history museums as well as aquariums, zoos and government landmarks will offer viewers a free day every once in a while. This can be a great conversation starter for your date and will allow you to get to know some of their interests outside of the movie theater or a busy restaurant scene. Free days will also allow you to get to know a place to see if it’s somewhere you’d like to take your date again. For instance, there’s always new exhibitions that could inspire more romance between the two of you. When you choose to go on a free day you’ll also have more money to splurge on a nice dinner or even a souvenir to help your date remember the special day.

5. Skip the Alcohol
Dating can often mean ordering drinks at a restaurant or bar, which is fine especially when you’re just starting out. However, if you’re looking to save money on the dating experience you may want to skip the booze altogether. Sure, it may not seem like you’re spoiling your date if you opt to do this, but you will find that it will cut your dining bill in half. This will allow you to go out and enjoy more activities together rather than just keeping your date to a mere meal. Skipping out on the alcohol also means you won’t have to worry about paying a taxi to take you to and from your dating locations as you’ll remain sober throughout the date. You may even find you feel more comfortable with one another as the date moves on and you’ll remember more of the romantic moments you shared when the date ends.

6. Keep It Local
Believe it or not, there’s a lot of things you can do on a date that allows you to support your local economy. If you like to date on the weekend then try out a date at the Farmer’s Market. This will give you time to browse some local crafts while also picking up a light breakfast, ingredients to share at a picnic or for a tasty home cooked meal later in the day. If the night life is more your thing then consider checking out a local gig at a pub, coffee house or other venue. This will help you bond over music and beverages while opening you up to new things in your own community. Of course, carnivals and fairs are always a great date activity and there’s probably a few of these events in your area throughout the year. Tickets are generally low priced and you can easily work with your budget to decide how many games you can play and what foods you can buy. If you have farms in your area you may also want to consider taking part in apple picking events, or other produce, as well as mazes and hay rides.

7. Groupon
Planning your dates around groupon or other social media inspired coupon sites might be one of the wisest choices when it comes to saving money. This won’t just allow you to save money, but it will provide you with a lot of amazing date ideas you may never have considered due to the price tag. Typically, Groupon offers a lot of coupons for items like spa trips, wine tasting, amusement parks, lesson plans (like surfing, crafting, making honey and so on), or even just a trip to a restaurant you may not normally try. With the huge savings you’ll have a world of opportunities offered to you which may just make your date unbelievable. These special coupons are also great for a couple planning to double date or date with a large group of people as they generally save you more money by the amount of people you invite.

8. Volunteer
Nothing brings two people together quite like offering to donate your time together. Sure, volunteering might not be a glamorous date, but it will help the two of you bond as you do something good for your community. This doesn’t mean you both have to spend your afternoon in neon vests picking up garbage on the side of the road. Rather, choose something that is going to suit both of your interests while still allowing the two of you to spend time together as you help out. Some of the more popular choices for these types of dates are working to build homes in your community or visiting with elders in a nursing home. Of course, there’s a lot of volunteer options available so don’t be afraid to do some research and find something amazing. The best thing is, you’ll both see one another in a good light which may even start the relationship out on the right foot.

9. Go Shopping
Spending a day shopping with your special someone will give you a few hints as to their tastes while also giving you the opportunity to spend an entire day talking away. This doesn’t mean head straight for the mall and go in all of the brand named stores you can think of. Instead, try looking around your neighborhood for yard sales to check out. Buying items from here will help out your community and may even lead you to find some treasures you never thought you’d run into. You should also check out thrift stores. Money from these sales go straight to a charity which helps out big time and the prices are incredibly low. If you plan the date early enough you may even be able to work around some of the items you purchased. For instance, if you found sporting equipment you can try it out or you could make a craft out of some of the artistic items you found throughout the store.

10. Stay In
Although it may seem a little bland, some of the best date nights can actually be held in the home. Better yet, home inspired dates can also save you a whole lot of money! There’s a lot of things you can do during a date too. For instance, try cooking together so you both get to enjoy the experience as well as the flavor of the food. There’s lots of romantic recipes to choose from, which aren’t difficult to make. You can also rent a movie or watch one you own. With a little homemade popcorn you can have the movie theater experience for next to nothing. Home spas also make for a relaxing date. Simply light some candles and use oils to provide relaxing back and feet massages. You may also want to read to one another in front of the fireplace, or spend the evening dancing to old records. If you want to mix things up a bit then invite over other couples for a game night that will surely bring laughs.

Dating doesn’t have to be the end of your budget. In fact, some of the best dates you can plan can be achieved for little to no cost all. With these dating tips you should be able to woo your date this Valentine’s Day or any other date night without having to worry about the financial repercussions!

With Groundhog Day just a few days away you may want to do a little thinking about how you’re going to prepare for the upcoming Spring months. Whether the little guy sees his shadow and goes back to bed or decides it’s time to come out and play, a little preparation can take you a long way when it comes to saving money throughout the upcoming season. Don’t stress out though as there’s a few things you can do to cut down on spending that will cost you little to nothing. So, whether you’re dealing with the unexpected late season snow or you’re enjoying a book on the beach, these tips will help you get ready for the upcoming change without forcing you to go overboard on spending when the weather decides to turn up the thermostat.

1. Try on Old Clothes
It’s almost time to pack away your winter clothes and enjoy a nice shopping spree for the upcoming seasons! However, before you decide to drop some money on new styles you may want to do a little inventory of what you already have in your collection. Before you do this you may want to go through your winter clothes. Try on items before packing them away so you’ll know if they’re going to be something you’d like to wear next season. Make sure they fit comfortably, look nice and don’t have a lot of damage. When you’re satisfied with your clothes pack them away and put the rejects in a bag. Then, pull out the clothes you packed away from last Spring and Summer. This requires the same process and will offer a pretty good refresher as to what you already own. When you’ve picked the cream of the crop hang them up and toss the rejects in the bag. You can either donate these to charity for a tax deduction, sell them in a yard sale or pass them on to friends and family. If you do decide to sell them it will give you an extra boost for the new items you’ll need to make your wardrobe complete.

2. Interior Cleaning
You’ve probably already made plans to do some Spring Cleaning but there’s a few things you may want to do in order to make the cleaning process flow smoother. For starters, flip your mattress. This should be done every few months but it often gets forgotten. Flipping it can help save on wear and tear which will allow your mattress to last longer. When you’ve finished here store away the extra linens that you won’t need when the weather heats up. This will eliminate household clutter so you can make a quick sweep of the home when you do get to cleaning. You should also go through your pantry and refrigerator. Pull out items that have been in there too long so you can take inventory and cleaning won’t require as much sorting and organizing. Finally, deep clean your carpets. It’ll get out the excess dust from winter which will cut down on allergies in the home.

3. Outdoor Maintenance
The outside of your home needs a little TLC too, but make sure to plan these projects around the weather. The first thing you should check is the gutters to make sure they’re ready to handle the rain that will be heading in your direction soon. You should also give the roof a once over to make sure you won’t have to deal with a leak during a season when it’s hard to get a contractor in to fix it. Another good idea is to check out the foundation of your home to make sure there were no cracks during the winter. You should also do the same for your walkway to prevent injuries. All of these items will let you know the state your home is in so you can catch a problem before it costs you a fortune. When you’ve done your once over then take to the yard. Debris like branches and leftover leaves should be cleared away to make Spring planting easier and to promote safety. You should also do some quick pruning and trim tree branches, particularly if they broke during a winter storm. Finally, change the light bulbs in your security and porch lights to keep the home safer.

4. Inspect Insulation
Chances are, if your insulation isn’t up to par you probably noticed it during the winter time. However, if you don’t run the heater often or you live in a mild climate then you may be in the dark over your insulation. The good news is it doesn’t take a whole lot to figure out if you’re dealing with a problem or not. Usually, if you walk around the doors and windows and feel a bit of a draft then you may need to do something about the problem. If you’re still not certain what’s up then you can ask a professional to come out. Typically you can find someone to help you with this for fairly cheap. Sometimes power companies will even send one out for absolutely nothing in order to help prevent a future power usage problem. If you are having problems with your insulation then catching it early is a good sign, of course, there are also fairly cheap ways to help fix the insulation temporarily so your power bill doesn’t sky rocket during air conditioning season.

5. Plant Seedlings
Spring can be pretty unpredictable at times, so if you like to plant in the garden you may want to start with seedlings in order to save some money. You can buy an inexpensive kit at most places that sell gardening supplies and if you’re not sure about the whole concept you can easily start out with the smallest on the market. Some websites also offer tips to build your own kits which may save even more money if you already have the supplies on hand. The seedling kit will allow you to keep a wide assortment of plants and flowers indoors so you won’t waste money if the weather decides to take a turn for the worse. The best thing is, if you choose to grow food you won’t have to wait long in order to get your plants blooming with delicious treats. You can even plant seedlings to ensure you have an abundance of food to choose from every week which will make your grocery bill drop.

6. Organize paperwork
Paperwork tends to pile up throughout the year which can be a huge frustration when it comes to Spring Cleaning as well as filing taxes. Of course, if you’re trapped indoors due to the weather then you may want grab your pile of papers and start sorting. Typically we end up with a lot of junk mail that mixes in with the important stuff, which can be a big problem when it comes to sensitive items. If you can, come up with a cheap filing system to help you get organized so you won’t lose out on paperwork you may need in the future. Try to shred documents you don’t need any more to avoid your sensitive information going out into the world. With your paperwork filed and ready to go for tax day you’ll be able to easily work through your home’s mess sooner without having to worry about throwing away something important.

7. Food Prep
If you’re a huge fan of winter foods then stock up now before they disappear for a few seasons. You don’t have to eat all of the food now, of course, so don’t worry that the money will be wasted. Rather, use the food to can or create pre-made meals. You may also want to stock up on food before Spring begins. Separate the food into different meals plans so you can enjoy the convenience of cooking in a hurry. This is especially great for Spring when kids tend to be into sports and other activities that keep the family away from the home more often. You should also make sure you have meals prepared to cook in the crock pot. This won’t just save time but will help you avoid turning on the oven when the weather is too warm. With your meals prepped and ready to go you can spend less on groceries while saving a whole lot of time and space.

8. Renew
Before the weather makes turns around you should go through the home and swap out items that may need a replacement. One of the best places to begin is with your filters. During the winter your home’s air filters are probably going to gather a lot of dust, thus replacing them will help cut down on allergies as well as how much you pay for other air filtration in the home. You should also change your water filters to ensure the family has plenty of clean water to keep them hydrated as the weather changes. Another item that needs swapped out is lightbulbs. You may want to swap out brighter bulbs for a lower watt due to the days being longer and you should always pick bulbs that are energy efficient. When you’re finished with items around the house you may want to look in the bathroom for items that need refreshing. For instance, a toothbrush is only meant to last a few months and if your family faced the cold or flu then there may be germs lingering. You should also get rid of old makeup and sun screen and buy all new materials!

9. Update Emergency Supplies
With Spring comes bad weather in many areas so make sure your family is prepared. One way to do this is to update your emergency food supply. You can easily fill this with excess canned goods or you can shop in bulk for dry foods that will last for years. When you’re satisfied with your food and water supply make sure you have an adequate first aid kit. You should think out of the box when it comes to this and add supplies that can help in case you can’t get to a medical facility. You should also stock allergy medications and fever reducers. Finally, add a battery operated radio and flashlight with a set of extra batteries. Blankets and excess clothes could also be beneficial.

10. Plan your Spring Break
Before Spring sets in take a few minutes to plan out your Spring Break before other people beat you to it! While the weather is still cold you should decide where you’re going to vacation and check out hotels and flights. By shopping early you’ll be able to save quite a bit of money on each of the items you need to buy and you’ll be able to pick the cream of the crop when it comes to hotels. You’ll also be able to book items like scuba diving without having to worry about price hikes or the company being sold out. This will also allow you more time to let your office know you’ll need the time off so you can be absolutely carefree when your vacation finally arrives. Of course, if you don’t plan on leaving for your Spring Break then this period can be spent planning activities to do with friends and family so you won’t have to worry about last minute planning when the time comes.

Groundhog Day may not seem like a huge holiday, but it does offer you a chance to get your home and future plans ready for the upcoming seasons of fun. With a few tips to help you cut down on costs you’ll have your family prepared for Spring time without feeling bogged down by clutter or home repairs!

Valentine’s Day is a great holiday to let your special someone know how much you care. Whether you’re going out on your first date or you’ve already passed your golden anniversary, there’s a lot of amazing gifts to choose from that will make your date feel spoiled. However, if you’re on a pretty tight budget you may find that this holiday can leave you stressed to the max. With expensive gifts surrounding you, it may feel as if you have no choice but to comply with the corporate prices. There’s a few ways you can shop for your sweetheart without worrying about the negative effect on your bank account though. With a few shopping alterations and a little creativity you’ll give your Valentine a gift that won’t be forgotten any time soon.

1. Local Flowers
Flowers, especially roses, are a go-to gift for couples young and old. They’re also a simple gift for anyone who may have forgotten that Valentine’s Day was on its way. From street vendors to bulk stores, you won’t have a problem finding flowers in your area; however, you may have a problem with how much the flowers cost. Before you do any shopping you should check out your local farmer’s market. Many farmers will have flowers in abundance for the special day and you may end up walking away with an extraordinary deal. Shopping this way will also help your local farmers have a little extra cash to buy their Valentine something special too! If you can’t find a deal at your Farmer’s Market then try a warehouse store. These stores will typically offer bulk deals which will allow you to get more for your money. If you don’t want to buy a lot of roses then you may consider splitting the costs with friends so you each get a small bouquet for your dates. While you’re shopping look for flowers with tight buds as this means they’ll last much longer than the holiday. You should also ask for plant food to help keep the flowers vibrant for longer.

2. DIY Gift
If you’re really hurting for money then there’s a wide assortment of gifts you can make that may even be appreciated more than one you buy. For instance, if you can’t afford flowers then take it to the next level by creating origami flowers. They’re free to make if you already have paper and you can get a free tutorial online. Another easy option is to create your own card. You can easily do this with supplies from home and if you want to step it up a notch add your own personal poem inside. If you feel your creative energy flowing then draw, paint or sculpt something special for the one you love. This will make for a great piece to display in the home throughout the year and will remind your special someone how much you care. Another great idea is to have your favorite photo of the two of you professionally printed. You can then make a special frame that’s filled with love. A coupon book is always a good gift option and you can fill it with anything you know your special someone will adore. Finally, you can create special love notes on Post Its and place them around the house for your partner to find throughout the day.

3. Homemade Meal
There’s nothing quite like home cooking and if your significant other tends to do the majority of the cooking and cleaning in the home then this could be the biggest treat of all. Try to master your partner’s favorite meal or cook something you know you can pull off without triggering the fire detector. Your special someone will be excited with your effort even if it isn’t a gourmet meal. To make things more romantic you can easily light a few candles, dim the lights and play some smooth music that both of you will enjoy. You could also pack finger foods for a romantic picnic under the stars. No matter how you choose to present this meal you’ll save a whole lot of money and hassle opposed to spending a fortune on a restaurant that is totally booked.

4. Romantic Desserts
A box of chocolates is another go-to treat that will leave your special someone satisfied. However, these boxes can be exceptionally pricey and may even leave you too broke to do anything else on the holiday. A great alternative to the classic gift is to make your own romantic dessert. There’s a lot of sweet treats to choose from so you can work around your partner’s needs in order to make the day special. One classic and very easy choice is chocolate covered strawberries. You can find rapid hardening chocolate in most stores or you can make up your own dipping sauce or simply use a fondue pot. Another easy alternative is pairing the strawberries with whipped cream which will cut down on the price all the more. Red velvet cake is another great alternative which can be whipped up from scratch, made from a box or purchased from most grocery stores or bakeries. If you’re still looking for ideas to make the perfect dessert, there’s lots of recipes online to guide you!

5. Be Cheesy
A lot of people go for the simple stuffed toy when it comes to Valentine’s Day surprises. This can be incredibly expensive though and often ends up going to charity or taking up space in your attic or storage unit. Rather than going for this option try to get a little cheesy with your gift. For instance, if the two of you ended up bonding over a movie when you began dating then pick up this movie. You could also plan a special date by ordering the same food you had during your first date. Another special option is a knick-knack that has something to do with your relationship. For instance, if you share the love of a video game then purchase a figure that represents a romantic element from the game. The same can be said from any hobby ranging from sports to the orchestra. These types of gifts won’t just cut down on the cost of your gift but will mean more to your date than a 10 foot bear ever could.

6. Gift Cards
If you’re one of the many people who have no idea what to get your special someone then a gift card is probably the way to go. Gift cards are especially great if you want to give your partner clothing or items that you know they would rather pick out. The best thing is, you can buy gift cards online at discount websites so you can get even more for your money. If you want to go out to eat somewhere special then it’s a great idea to go this route too. It will allow you to pay less for each gift card you buy so you can enjoy the savings at a nice restaurant you and your Valentine’s date have always wanted to try. Another great thing about gift cards is, if you forget the holiday is coming up you can pick them up last minute and print them out before your partner even realizes you left the room!

7. Spa
Nothing says you appreciate your special someone quite like a trip to the spa. Try to look around online and find a package deal for you and your partner to enjoy a couple’s day together. You could also just look for an exciting deal that your loved one would like to try alone. Of course, if you’re low on money then you can cheaply create your own spa at home. It’s a lot easier than you think so don’t disregard the concept if you think you don’t have the time or money. Although it may not be spa oriented, run a hot bubble bath for your Valentine and top off the mood with some soothing scents and candle light. You can also offer back and feet rubs to help relieve tension. There’s a lot of home spa kits available online or in your local department store too, so if you want to go all out with the project then the pre-made kits are a great place to start and won’t cost you a fortune.

8. Shop Early
Valentine’s Day is the season of diamonds and luxurious gifts. If you want to go down that route this holiday and still want to save some money then you will definitely need to start shopping early. There will be a ton of sales for you to choose from during this time, but not all of them will actually be worth your time. Shopping ahead will allow you to look at the prices prior to the sales discounts so you’ll know exactly how much you’re saving. It will also give you time to surf the sales so you can scower local dealers as well as those online to see who can give you the best price. Typically, you may actually get a better deal online so you’ll want to be an early bird to ensure your gift will make it to you on time. The earlier you shop the more time you’ll be able to think over the purchase as well. You may be on the fence about the style or you may even need to do some research on the product itself. With time comes a more satisfying buy you’ll be proud to present to your loved one.

9. Mini Getaway
Going on a trip is a great way to celebrate Valentine’s Day with someone you love. Of course, taking a trip also means spending a whole lot of money, especially if you decide to leave at the last minute. Rather than planning out a faraway getaway try to enjoy a holiday nearby. For instance, try to plan a quick escape to a nearby city or town. You can spend the day exploring an area you may not know, enjoying time in a romantic hotel and dining on local cuisine. It may not measure up to the Bahamas or other tropical adventures, but it will refresh you and provide you with the romantic trip you’d hoped to find. You can also enjoy time with your significant other while camping. You’ll love watching the stars without having to strain your eyes to see past all the city lights. The best thing is, with a quick getaway you won’t have to take as much time off work, so you’ll save more without losing out!

10. Postpone
There’s no law saying you have to celebrate Valentine’s Day on the actual day. In fact, if you and your date decide to celebrate it the day after then you may be in store for a lot more savings than you can imagine. For starters, flowers, boxes of chocolates and other classic Valentine’s Day gifts will be on sale as soon as the holiday is over. You’ll be able to spend more money on wines and other treats because the special Valentine’s Day packages will go straight to the clearance bin. You also won’t have to wait for hours to get into a restaurant which means spending less money on appetizers and drinks to tide you over until you can sit down and enjoy a meal. If you’re planning a getaway then Valentine’s Day customers won’t be taking up the rooms, so you’ll pay less and will be able to enjoy the amenities all the more!

Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to leave you hurting for money. With these ten gift ideas you should come out of the holiday with savings you and your special someone will be proud of! So, this year show you care by exercising your new frugal skills!

Kids need room to play and enjoy their childhood and parents need a place to make sure those pesky LEGOs aren’t going to be stepped on first thing in the morning. So, of course, a playroom is the solution to all of these issues. However, thinking about converting a room into a play room can be a lot of stress when you think about how much it’ll cost to keep it up to standards. There’s a lot of short cuts you can take to ensure your kids love their playroom and are going to get the most benefit out of it. There’s also a couple ways to take the cost out of keeping the room a safe place to play. So, get out your planning book because your next household project is going to make the kids jump for joy without sending your wallet into a dark depression.

1. Build Up
If you have a small space to work in then you should consider building up in order to provide the kids with more room. Building up will work magic in a playroom, especially if you have high ceilings. These ceilings open up plenty of room to build an indoor tree house that will make playing inside on rainy days seem all the more enticing. If you don’t have high ceilings then a simple platform can transform the amount of space children have to play. When you choose to build one of these items try to use wood you have laying around the house. You should always check the condition of the wood though, just to be safe. If you don’t have wood at home then look online for anyone trying to get rid of wood for cheap or free. You can also buy cheaper woods, like plywood or scrap wood, from your local lumber or hardware store. When it comes to building with these items reinforcement is key so make sure you have a game plan. You can also add more space for physical activity with rope climbing or rock walls for older children. These items are cheaper than you’d expect to build! Of course, you should also build shelves to help keep storage off the ground.

2. Refurbish items
Creating a playroom for the kids doesn’t mean you also have to go out and buy all new furniture to fill the room with. Instead, check out some of those items you have in storage to see if they’ll work. A lot of items like old boxes, TV stands, night stands and so on can be transformed into toy boxes or cute little work areas. If you have a small entertainment center then try to convert it into a mini kitchen or tool area for younger children. With a little paint and a spark of imagination you can create your child’s new favorite toy for next to nothing. Old doors are also a great item to incorporate into your children’s playroom. You can easily transform a door into an arts and crafts table or a place for children to play with larger toys like a train set. Finally, chairs that may not match your current decor can be reupholstered with kid friendly designs to add a comfortable place to read in the room.

3. Tape
You may wonder how tape can save you money in a playroom, but there’s a whole lot of reasons to add it into the design budget. With a little tape your children can burn off quite a bit of energy when they’re playing indoors! To begin with, you can create a simple hop scotch design on the floor for hours of entertainment. You may also consider tic-tac-toe or a beanbag toss game too. With the right tape you can easily remove it from hardwood flooring or carpet without a problem. You can also use the same tactic on the wall for tic-tac-toe and other simple games. Just tape pieces of Velcro to the wall and game pieces and your children will have a fun game that takes up no floor space. Of course, tape can also be used for decor. With a little patience you can add your children’s names to the wall as well as the alphabet and numbers or create fun frames around their art work. This is especially great for younger children as you won’t have to worry about heavy glass frames falling as they play.

4. Rugs
Making the playroom comfortable for playtime can be hard when you have tiled or wooden floors as it’s not very comfortable to sit on. If you have rugs laying around the house that aren’t in use then this is probably your cheapest way to add comfort to the area without spending money. Rugs can sometimes be a bit hazardous though, especially if the children are very active in the room. So, when you put them in add a strip of velcro to each side and to the floor to keep the rugs from slipping out of place. If you do, however, have rugs in your budget then try to look for cheap rugs that can dual as a play area. For instance, many children’s stores will sell rugs that have a hopscotch design as well as those that have a railroad track or simple road with scenery. These will work as play places which will keep children busier and more satisfied with their designated area. You may also want to consider picking up carpet samples which are cheap to free at some stores. These can be moved around the room, so your children are comfortable wherever they choose to play. Another option is to buy foam puzzle pieces, which may run you more money, but will add a burst of color and comfort to the room.

5. Rotate Toys
Toy storage may end up costing you a lot of money if you’re not careful. It can also take up a lot of space, thus limiting the play area for your children. Rather than overburdening the room with storage, try to rotate toys every few months. Ask the children which toys they’d like to play with the most and pack up the rest. After a few months swap some toys and watch as they light up with excitement over the toys they probably forgot they had. Of course, not all children will be up for this. If this is the case then go through and pack away items they rarely use when they’re not home. After a few months swap them out. This will cut down on the amount of toys in the room and will also keep your from spending a lot of money on toys throughout the year.

6. Pools
Kids’ pools aren’t just for swimming! In fact, you can use these for a lot of fun activities inside the home. If you have younger children then a simple plastic or blow up pool can quickly be transformed into an indoor sandbox that will bring hours of fun. You may want to put a tarp down underneath the pool to help catch excess sand that falls off the children when they’re finished playing. A blow up pool can also be turned into a fun ball pit that will drive toddlers wild. You can cheaply pick up balls in bulk online, which will keep your budget low. The best thing is, you won’t have to take your kids to the ball pit anymore which will save on time and germs! A blow up pool also makes a great play pin for younger children who aren’t quite walking. The soft exterior makes it a great bumper for falling and it can hold several toys and provides and cozy nap area. As the seasons transform back into summer you can always take the pool back outside!

7. Use the Walls
Avoid taking up too much space on the floor by using your walls for play and storage. If your child has a lot of small items then consider hanging up bins or baskets to add to the decor of the room and keep the toys in order. You can also take shoe organizers and place them on the wall or back of doors. In these you can store medium sized figurines and dolls as well as craft supplies. The walls can also be transformed into one large easel for kids that love doodling and showing off their art work. Try painting the lower portion of a wall with chalkboard paint which will allow children the ability to draw and erase as they please. Of course, you could also splurge a bit and buy wallpaper designed for coloring. A cheaper option is to hang rolled paper on the wall. This allows you to easily save some of the art and cleanup will take mere seconds.

8. Primary Colors
Painting the room is a big concern for many parents as it may be hard to suit all of the children’s interests. One simple way to avoid fighting over the paint job is to stick with primary colors. These colors are known to help promote brain stimulation in children so they’ll get a whole lot more out of their play time. If you aren’t keen on simple blue, red and yellow then try to incorporate the colors into the decor and keep the walls simple with a soothing color that won’t tire the children’s eyes. This will not only create a relaxed setting, but will trigger brain stimulation that encourages more creative thinking while also helping the brain absorb lessons from educational toys and books. Sticking to primary colors will also ensure you can match other decor with ease and will also prevent you from having to keep repainting the room to suit your child’s needs.

9. Skip the Theme
Kids’ interests change on a daily basis, so choosing a theme for a playroom isn’t a wise choice. Instead of spending a small fortune on items they’re going to be bored of within a week try to go for a gender neutral color. This will help keep all the children happy without spending too much on themed decor. If the children really want something themed in the room then think as simple and frugal as possible. Try displaying some of the kids’ toys on shelves or allowing some of their favorite DVD covers to show. If this isn’t working then a simple poster or print out from online will offer the theme they need without forcing you to spend over $5. Of course, you may also want to consider wall or window decals which are slightly more expensive, but easy to remove when the interest passes.

10. Clear Bins
Finally, choose bins that won’t make your playroom look smaller. Clear bins are always a safe option and they offer a world of benefits. For instance, with clear bins you can always see what’s in a box, so snacks, tissues or other non-playroom friendly items won’t end up hanging out in the toy area. It will also allow children to see what toys they have and where they belong which helps with clean up as well as keeping the child entertained. Clear bins will also leave the room feeling larger as they aren’t a big opaque item taking up space. Thus, the room will feel breezier and a lot more comfortable for everyone.

Setting up a playroom can be easier and cheaper than you’d ever expect. However, a lot of people have a hard time picking just what should go in their room. With these simple tips you should be able to set up a room that isn’t just fun for the kids, but will help their mind’s achieve greatness. With a little TLC on your end and a few money saving tips your children will be more than happy with the amazing space you provide them.

There’s only one more big game before the Super Bowl, so it may be time to get out your game plan and put it into action. Planning a Super Bowl Party can be harder than you’d expect, especially if you’re battling a budget to make it happen. There’s actually a lot of different ways you can work around finances to transform your annual party into something everyone will remember. With a few simple tricks you can blow any standard party out of the water and show all of your friends and family just how tough your party planning skills are. So, put on your game face and get ready to save a lot of money while having the time of your life.

1. Bulk Buys
The Super Bowl means BIG and the best way to get that into your house is to stock up with bulk supplies. This is one of the top ways to cut out spending when you’re planning a party without cutting out the much needed snacks. Luckily, many of your bulk buy stores will have most of the common items you’ll need ready to go. Typically, around this time of the year stores will order more large packages of chips and soda, which will help you get what you need at an even greater price. You’ll also be able to find large packages of hotdogs and hamburger meat to help you create a tasty barbeque for just under budget. If you’re looking to splurge a little bit then see what the bulk store has for dips and other accessories that will improve what you serve your guests. If you choose to shop this route you may not have to worry about any other party supplies and might even have extras to feed the family for dinners in the days following the game.

2. Cook From Scratch
If you’re planning on serving a lot of food at the party then pre-packaged items might not be the best route to go. Sure, all you have to do is follow simple instructions or just pop it in the microwave, but the price can send your budget through the roof. Rather than shop in the pre-packed aisle, try to come up with some Super Bowl recipes you can make from scratch. Super Bowl days are typically pretty cold for most of the country, so choose a meal that won’t just satisfy your guests hunger, but will also warm them up. A big pot of beans or chili can be just the ticket to keep your guests hunger at bay and they don’t take a whole lot of work to create. You also won’t have to spend a lot of money on ingredients, especially if you have your own frugal recipe ready to go! If slow cooking isn’t your idea of a good time then make it even easier by serving simple appetizers. Nachos are usually a hit and will take only a few minutes to put together and cook. You can also make pizzas out of French bread and simple ingredients. Baked potatoes are also incredibly easy and won’t cost you too much. If you’re feeling ambitious you may want to try to make your own dips or desserts. Cookies are a quick and cheap option that everyone loves!

3. Potluck
Not everyone wants to spend their Super Bowl Sunday in the kitchen! Instead of whipping up everything for the party ask your guests to bring something in with them. You can start out by making a few filling dishes, especially if your guests are expecting certain foods from you. As the guests begin to show up, your home will be filled with a variety of different foods that will make the party even more exciting. This is especially great if you have guests with specific dietary concerns as you won’t have to spend the day catering to everyone’s needs. With a potluck you won’t have to spend a small fortune either which makes things a lot easier in regards to the rest of your planning. If you’re uncomfortable with asking people to bring food then you can always ask for them to bring beverages, which tend to bring the budget to astronomical proportions!

4. Alcohol Free
Alcohol can play a huge part in a lot of Super Bowl parties, but this doesn’t mean you have to have it at your party. If you don’t already have a full bar at home then providing all of your guests with alcohol could make your party’s budget sky rocket. Even if you plan on sticking to a light beer you’ll still be out a lot of money you could use elsewhere. So, why not skip the beverages all together? This won’t just save you a lot of money when you go shopping for the party, but it will ensure you won’t spend the day burning gasoline as you safely drop your guests off at their homes due to alcohol levels. An alcohol free party also makes it more family friendly which is ideal if you have kids or plan to have friends and family over that have a lot of children.

5. Keep Decorations Light
When it comes to hosting a party it’s easy to want to go overboard with decorations. Chances are most of your guests probably won’t care about what’s on the walls as soon as the TV is turned on. Thus, try to avoid spending a whole lot of money on items you don’t already own. If you already have items from a team that is playing then you don’t really need anything else to make your party stand out. Of course, if this is your first party then keep it simple by just putting out streamers. You can go all out and buy streamers for the team you hope to win, or make sure you can use them year after year by sticking to the basic NFL colors. If you plan on having kids over for the event then ask them to sit down and color in football helmets and footballs to use as décor throughout the house. You can also have them create paper football flags that can be placed on a straw for a little extra fun. These can even be used in your guests’ mixed drinks to make your party’s style standout.

6. Entertain
Not everyone is going to be at your party to watch the game. If you invite families then there’s a pretty good chance you’re going to want to come up with some other entertainment activities to keep everyone busy. Setting up board games can be a great way to get people to mingle while also keeping them entertained. Of course, you don’t have to end here as you can also play cards, Pictionary or other charade inspired games. If you’re sure a group of people are interested in a certain hobby then this is also an easy way to keep people happy. Scrapbooking is one of the more common choices and can keep guests occupied for hours. If you’re looking for a little help in the kitchen you can always ask guests to help out or have them decorate cupcakes and cookies! Of course, you also have to think about the game watchers who will be there early or those that will stay late or how to entertain if the half time show just isn’t worth watching. Organizing a football game is one of the easiest ways to keep everyone busy and will burn off the extra energy and calories. You can also work up a game of football trivia or find a Super Bowl playlist on your streaming radio for some dance time.

7. Kids’ Activities
A lot of people will hire a babysitter to watch their children during the big game. Save yourself and your friends and family some money by inviting everyone to the celebration. Kids can easily be brought into the party without having to make too many adjustments, so don’t stress out too much. Try to set up a little table for kids to sit down and color sports or team affiliated color pages when they get bored of the game. You can also set up a special area so they can decorate football themed cookies and cupcakes. When their energy starts to build up organize a fun game of touch or flag football outside. If there’s a major age difference then have two separate games, the kids will love watching each other play and the older kids can provide tips to younger players. Another fun idea for kids is to have them sell snacks to the rest of the guests. You can print out fake money and set up a concession stand where they can make popcorn, lemonade and serve the items you prepare for the guests. If all else fails, bring a smaller TV into the room so they can watch sports oriented cartoons or movies. You can also pull out sports related video games to add to the fun.

8. Projector
If you have a lot of guests stopping by and not a whole lot of TV screen then have no fear. Rather than going out and picking up a bigger television for the game, you can easily use your home projector to create an exciting game all of your guests will remember. The projector can be used on any blank wall, or if you plan on hanging outdoors for a barbeque then it can be projected onto the side of your home. The best thing is, if you don’t have cable or your cable company doesn’t offer the coverage you and your guests are looking for you can always stream the game straight from your phone. Since most phone packages give you an abundance of special features to choose from as well as full games, your guests will be pretty pleased with the amazing time you present for them you!

9. Coupons
Luckily enough, with the big game also comes some pretty Super Bowl sized coupons. Make sure you look for as many coupons as possible a week or two before the big game so you can collect everything you need to go shopping without worry. Most stores will provide you with coupons for common snacks and typical food choices like buffalo wings and hamburger patties. If you start your couponing early you should be able to plan out your meal around each of the coupons you have. Don’t be afraid to shop in the generic section too, as with a coupon you’ll also get more savings than imagined. Of course, when you do go shopping make sure to look around the store as there will be in store coupons next to some items!

10. Plan It Out
Before you take on the grocery store make sure you have concrete plans as this will help you avoid overspending whenever possible. By planning out your meal you’ll be less likely to splurge on many items and you’ll always have a backup plan. Keeping the entire party planned out will also avoid bland moments that may have you pulling out your debit card for a pizza just to keep the guests pleased. With everything on paper and ready for you to reference you won’t have to worry about straying from your budget or making a decision that will cost you too much.

This year you’ll be able to pull off an amazing Super Bowl party without a hitch. These ten tips will help you serve a spectacular variety of food while also ensuring your guests get to enjoy the game, mingle and have a little fun between activities. When it’s all said and done you can feel pretty proud over your incredible party even if you’re team didn’t come out as successful as you!

Wedding season is right around the corner and if you’ve been picked as the maid of honor there’s a good chance you have a bridal shower to plan. Of course, the bridal shower isn’t always assigned to the maid of honor, but can also be hosted by other friends, family members or even another bridesmaid . No matter who you are, there’s a good chance you’ll want to throw an amazing bash for your loved one even if you’re budget isn’t where your heart is. Have no fear though as there’s many ways to cut back on the initial cost of a bridal shower. With a few pinches here and there you’ll be able to show the bride in your life just how much she’s loved by those around her. By following these ten tips you’ll be ready to get your ideas off the paper and into the preparation stage!

1. Host at Home
One of the biggest expenditures when it comes to hosting any part is where you’re actually going to hold the event. A lot of people will rent out buildings or ask for a party room in a restaurant which could cost you a small fortune. Another option is to buy a permit to have the party in a park, which also means you’re out money you could be spending elsewhere. Rather than going to extra lengths try to host the party at home. If the weather is nice you can provide a more spacious area in the yard, or in a common recreation area if you live in an apartment. If the weather’s cold then move around furniture to accommodate the guests. It will only be for a short while, so it shouldn’t be a big inconvenience. If you can’t find space in your home then ask a friend, family member or even the bride if you can host it in their home. You may be surprised as to how many people will gladly open up their home to you.

2. Invitations
Invitations are a pretty important element when it comes to planning a bridal shower. However, this doesn’t mean half of your budget should be dedicated to a piece of paper that’s only going to be looked at a few times. Rather than sending out paper invitations you may want to consider an e-vite instead. There’s a lot of websites dedicated to making these fun electronic cards and many of them offer them for absolutely free. Of course, with some sites you may have to pay a small fee, but it won’t compare to anything you’d pay when you go the paper route. If you’re not feeling fancy then jump on the technological bandwagon and use your social media page to create an event and invite people to it. You may have to call or invite some people by mail, but the mass of the guest lists will get the invite without a problem and can even RSVP right on the page. Of course, if you really love the old fashioned vibe of the invitations then try make your own. You can use cheap crafting supplies to create an invitation that suites the bride perfectly. You could also find a printable invitation online and use these to take care of the invitation dilemma. If you do choose to buy professional invitations then make sure to look at bulk websites so you can get the best possible deal.

3. Skip the Theme
There’s usually a lot of pressure for the host to choose a theme for a bridal shower. It can be fun to work around a theme, especially if it means a lot to the bride. Themes aren’t the greatest way to cut back on cost though. Between buying special decorations to suit the theme and ordering plates and other must have party items that depict the theme, you’re going to end up spending a lot more money on items then you should. So, instead of coming up with a theme and throwing money into it, try to stick with a set of colors. To give it a more personal touch you may want to work with the bride’s wedding colors. This will make buying accessories easier and cheaper while still making the party look like a million bucks. By doing this you’ll knock money off the cost of plates, napkins, bags, streamers and other items you need for the party. It’ll also allow you to think out of the box with décor and won’t leave you confined in your choices which often leads to buying more expensive items.

4. Craft Party Favors
If you plan on passing out party favors then it may save you a whole lot of money to just craft them yourself. You can choose the items based on things you like to make, which can make the whole thing a lot of fun. One very popular bridal shower party favor is customized soap. You can find soap kits for incredibly cheap at just about any health or craft store, which will start you out on the right track. If you’re experienced with the craft then add whatever scents you like to it. You may even want to mold them into little brides and grooms or other wedding inspired shapes. Another popular gift is candles which can also easily be made with cheap kits. You can add the candles to mason jars or decorate them with adorable bride and groom tags! Of course, there’s many other ideas online so get creative!

5. Games
When it comes to parties, nothing keeps your guest entertained quite like games. This doesn’t mean you have to go out and spend a fortune on board games or bride inspired games though. There’s a lot of bridal games you can use that won’t cost you a lot of money. Some may even be accomplished simply by using supplies from your own home. When it comes to games you can use your imagination to come up with something fun, or you can browse the web or asks others for ideas. Some cultures have traditional games they play while many just wing it! One cheap and easy game is the toilet paper wedding dress. This only requires toilet paper and you can save by buying the cheap stuff! Simply ask guests to pair up and one will create a spectacular toilet paper wedding gown on the other. They can switch places afterwards. Another fun game, mostly aimed at the bride, is to set out ingredients for a cake and have the bride try to make it from scratch. If it works out well you’ve got extra food, if not then at least you got to share a laugh! You can also create trivia or true and false games using facts on the bride and groom. There’s a lot of other fun ideas online so start browsing early!

6. Wedding Prep
If your bridal shower is going to be closer to the wedding then try to use the time to get some wedding prep done. This is a great way to help get some of the massive amounts of prep work finished, while also keeping the guests entertained. You can easily set up a craft area for everyone to sit and chat as they create tiny bags and fill them with birdseeds, construct center pieces or even simply work on name tags for the seating chart. There’s probably a million different things that need to be done and this is one way to get them out of the way so you can concentrate on more important things. It might be hard to pull off the wedding prep if you’re having a larger party, so you may have to do some extra planning to make it work. However, setting up stations for the party is one way to help everyone mingle with different groups while also allowing people to do more while they’re at the party.

7. Potluck
Food can be pricey, especially if you’re looking to feed a lot of people over a few hours’ time. Rather than bearing all of the burden of providing the food, ask your guests to bring something along with them. When they RSVP they can sign up to bring something off of your list or you can give them free reign. This will allow you to feed everyone without sinking a lot more money into the party and it will allow anyone close to the bride to feel like they had a part in the planning of the party. If you want to spice things up then add a theme to the meal. You can ask people to bring foods that remind them of the bride, or you can even ask the bride to offer suggestions.

8. Share Stories/Advice
When everyone is tired from an afternoon of games and wedding prep have the guests sit down and relax together. During this quiet time you can all share stories about how you met the bride or special memories the two of you may share. Everyone can also offer up advice for her new married life which may be more precious than the gifts she receives. With such a broad spectrum of advice, the bride will be thankful that you planned out such an incredible time which will prepare her for the upcoming years. If everyone is having trouble coming up with something to talk about you can always write down topics on pieces of paper and have everyone draw one out. This will help break the ice and spark some amazing conversations. Of course, you could always ask the bride if she has any questions too, which is another great way to get the conversation rolling.

9. Keep It Small
You don’t have to invite everyone on the bride’s wedding guests list to the bridal shower. In fact, if you’re wanting to save on cash this should be the last thing on your mind. Instead, keep your invitation list small. Try to make sure close family and friends are on the list as well as all of the bridesmaids and some of the groom’s close family. This will help cut down on the amount of people you need to feed and entertain, which will certainly make your budget a whole lot happier. With fewer people at the party it will feel closer knit which can make the party cozier and easier to manage.

10. DIY Decorations
Decorations shouldn’t leave you hurting for money after the bridal shower. Instead, come up with your own décor items to keep your budget low. One great way to spruce up the party is to use white holiday lights. These will light up the room and bring attention to the glamour of the bride. You may also want to collect photos of the bride and groom throughout the years to place around the home. This will make the party décor much more personal which will make the bride feel incredible that you spent the time on her. Banners are another great way to customize your party without having to spend a lot. You can make one easily out of poster boards or rolled paper. This is where you can show off your creativity too! If you have your own garden then you may want to cut some flowers to add to the mix too! The more items you find for decorations at home the better off your budget and shower will be!

Planning a bridal shower should be more fun than stress so don’t let a tight budget get in your way of having a good time. With these ten tips you should knock out a lot of the expenditures which will allow you to enjoy your planning and enjoy the special time with the bride even more. With such a successful party, you’ll feel great about sending your bride into married life!

If you’re a big fan of the Mardi Gras celebration then it may be time to start planning out your trip. For many, Mardi Gras is a great time to blow off some steam and have a little fun before Easter arrives. With celebrations all over the world, many choose to visit New Orleans to show some love for the day of feasting. Of course, if you’re planning on celebrating the holiday you may get discouraged by the expensive price tag. From flights and hotels to food and drink, everything you need to buy to celebrate keeps adding up. There are a few ways to enjoy your good time without spending a lot of money though. With these ten tips you’ll be ready to have the time of your life on a budget that won’t dip into your hard earned savings.

1. Stay Close to Home
You don’t have to travel far to celebrate Mardi Gras. Although it may seem ideal to go to the major parties, you may find there’s plenty of fun to be had in your community. A lot of places will host their own special Mardi Gras celebration so make sure you see what your area has to offer before you make any financial decisions. If you live in or near a city then there’s a good chance you can get a taste of what goes on in New Orleans and other city’s that host big celebrations. With less people around you’ll be able to see and hear more than you would in populated cities and you won’t spend as much money. If there’s no celebrations near you then look around at cities that are a bit closer. If you can find a place within driving distance you’ll only have to worry about one night’s hotel and the cost of fueling up. This won’t even come close to what you’d spend when you involve airline tickets and high priced hotels.

2. Plan Ahead
One of the main keys to saving money when you travel is to plan ahead. With Mardi Gras less than a month away you may not be able to save a whole lot this holiday, but next year you’ll be prepared! It’s always best to ensure you get your airline and hotel secured several months in advance. This can be hard, especially if you’re not sure you can get time off work but the sooner you get your reservation in the better. Even if you’re not planning a trip to New Orleans, traveling to other cities can still be pricey if you’re not planning ahead. Large cities will still get you a better discount if you book ahead of time, so don’t wait. Making sure you have everything taken care of early will also ensure you have a hotel room when all of the action begins.

3. Public Transit
Mardi Gras celebrations are usually packed so the chances of you getting around in a car aren’t only slim but pretty pricey. If you’re traveling to enjoy Mardi Gras then public transportation is going to be your best friend. For a low price you can get a tourist or day pass which will allow you to go wherever you need without having to worry about the price of a taxi cab. Public transit will also allow you to have a good time without having to worry about who is going to drive you back to your hotel room. Even if you’re not going out of town for the celebration, public transportation can help save you money as you celebrate in your own city. With tourists out in full force you’re probably going to find yourself in bumper to bumper traffic more often than normal which costs you more and more in gas. Not to mention, when you go to the special event you’re more than likely going to have to drive around for a while to park. During events like this most places hike up the cost of parking too, which won’t do you any favors.

4. DIY Costume
No matter how or where you’re celebrating, one of the best aspects of the holiday is being able to dress up and have a good time. Retail costumes can cost a lot of money though which isn’t great for a budget. Rather than going out and buying your costume there’s a few quick and simple ways to make your own. The main themes surrounding Mardi Gras costumes tend to be royalty and jesters, which are fairly easy to make from common items found in the home. However, if you’re in a hurry or prefer to keep things simple then you may want to consider making a mask.There’s a lot of varieties to choose from too, so make sure you do a little research to see just what suits your style. If you have a little time and feel creative then you can easily work up a mask using paper mache; however if you’re in a rush then simply print out a mask template online and tape it to a straw, pencil or other item that could be used as a holder. These templates can be found online for free or a low cost, so let your browsing save the day, big time.

5. Research
One of the biggest problems many face is not knowing where to be and when to be there. This can be especially troublesome if you’re celebrating Mardi Gras with your family. Before you leave for your destination, may it be in your own city or at a larger celebration, look online to see if you can find schedules for events. Sometimes cities will map it out so families, especially those with children, will have their own area to celebrate while singles and anyone drinking will have another place. Knowing where to be in this situation can be important as it may ruin your celebration if you find yourself in the wrong area. It’s also important to know what’s going on as this will keep you entertained throughout the day. Most areas will have a parade and many also encourage musicians to play live shows. If you’re aware of everything on the itinerary, you’ll be ready to get the most out of the holiday while keeping your family safe.

6. Pack Snacks
Although February isn’t considered a hot month, it’s always important to have water on you whenever you go to an event. The case is the same when you celebrate Mardi Gras too. Before you leave for all the action try to pack a bag with water and some easy snacks for the family. This won’t just keep everyone happy and feeling good throughout the day, but will save you a whole lot of money. When you go to large events like this there’s a pretty good chance everything is going to be priced incredibly high. Yes, this sadly even includes water. With a bag full of snacks ready to go you can skip out on lunch and ensure everyone beats the mid-day hunger cravings without having to spend a lot of money. If you want to experience some food at the celebration then this is a great way to curve hunger until you find a good deal. However, with the right snacks you may not have to spend a penny while you’re out.

7. Look for Deals
Mardi Gras tends to center around drinking during most celebrations, but that doesn’t mean you have to spend a lot of money to join the crowd. Before things get too busy try to surf around the Mardi Gras area and see what bars are offering deals. Generally, happy hours are the best way to go, but make sure you look around the area and see if the bar isn’t just offering the same price as its competition during happy hour. You may also see if you can find a place that offers a drink and appetizer combo as this will help keep you full while also ensuring you don’t drink too much before going out in public. During the celebration there will also be many vendors selling handcrafts. These can be a lot of fun to buy, but use your common sense when you want something. If the price seems incredible then it’s probably not going to be worth it. You can also quickly browse around craft sites to see if anyone else is selling the same type of crafts for a much smaller price.

8. Visit Friends
If you’re feeling burdened by your budget then you may want to call around and ask if any friends or family members will be celebrating. This will allow you to still get to have some fun while also spending time with those you care about. Going to a party your friends or family are hosting can be even more fun than traveling to the actual event. In fact, it may be a great time to catch up with one another while enjoying good food, some drinks and amazing conversation. Not to mention, apart from chipping in for the party, you won’t have to rearrange your budget to have a good time.

9. Dining
Mardi Gras is filled with delicious food choices that will make your holiday spectacular. If you plan on going out then look for groupon deals or find a great restaurant with reasonable prices. However, if you’re staying in you can really go all out on your meal! Try looking up some recipes to see if anything strikes your fancy. There will be a wide variety of items to choose from that won’t cost a lot to make. Of course, with Mardi Gras you’re also going to come across some pricier dishes, like those that call for shrimp, but you can always substitute this ingredient for something else or leave it out entirely. One of the best and easiest things to make for Mardi Gras is Beignets which are simple to make and won’t cost you a small fortune. If you’re on a tight budget then these foods can easily be snacked on all day or served at a party. They’re also great as Mardi Gras treats for children!

10. Host a Party
When all else fails, throw your own Mardi Gras bash! This doesn’t mean you have to spend a fortune as there’s ways to entertain that won’t cost you a lot. Try asking your guest to bring in their own food or drink. Potlucks are perfect for allowing people to try new things and they take the burden of food away from the host. When it comes to music you won’t have to look any further than online radio as there will be numerous Mardi Gras playlist to choose from at no charge to you. If you’re low on decorations then print some fun Mardi Gras masks off the internet and tape them to the wall. You can also buy bulk Mardi Gras beads from most dollar or discount stores. These can be used as décor and party favors. With all the basic components covered, you should be set for a party your friends will be talking about for years to come!

When it comes to celebrating Mardi Gras you don’t have to keep your budget in the front of your mind in order to have a good time. With these ten tips you’ll ensure you’ll be set for an amazing time without actually having to pay the large price tag for it. This Mardi Gras is going to be all about when and where you feel like celebrating, rather than how much you’ve put on your credit card!

Let’s face it, no one really likes spending hours upon hours grocery shopping each year. Between working out your food budget, cooking meals and shopping, it may seem as if food is the only thing on your mind! There’s a few ways you can avoid spending as much time and money at the grocery store though, which will help you enjoy the whole food process a little more. With a few food preservation tips you should have the ability to stock up on several weeks’ worth of food without having to worry about it going bad! These tips will not only keep you out of the store for longer, but will ensure your food budget as a chance to grow before you have to return to the dreaded shopping experience. So, grab your eco-friendly shopping bags and enjoy adding time and money back to your life!

1. Organize the Refrigerator
A lot of family’s have problems with groceries simply because of the way they store their food. This can lead to money straight down the drain, but thankfully there’s a pretty easy solution for the problem. Every week you should take a few minutes to organize your refrigerator. Knowing what you have inside of the cold box is pretty crucial to keeping your food fresh and edible. It will also keep you from having to keep making trips to the store for items you probably already have. When it comes to your food shelves, try to keep foods that aren’t going to store for long in a place that everyone can see them. For instance, rather than tossing all your fruits and vegetables in a drawer, place them on a shelf where everyone can see the options they have. Fruit and vegetables that are stored in a drawer should be rotated often as this will ensure older produce will be eaten sooner than the items you’ve just purchased. After all, just one bad fruits can destroy a whole batch! Milk and meats should also be placed on a shelf, rather than in a drawer or on the side door. This will help you know what meats you have to cook and will also ensure the milk stays at a consistent temperature which will keep it fresher longer. With your items organized and ready to go you shouldn’t have a problem knowing what needs to be purchased and what you have in stock already.

2. Paper Towel Technique
If you’ve ever bought a bag of salad only to find that that it’s bad the very next day then you may want to try out the paper towel technique as soon as you open up your next bag. Leafy greens are hard to keep fresh, even when you’re entirely devoted to the task. This can be a major problem if you plan on stocking up on these items. There is one way to help keep them as fresh as possible though. When you open your bag of greens slip in a dry paper towel. This will pull the moisture out of the bag which works to keep things fresh for longer. You may even want to consider moving your greens to an air tight storage container to help cut down on even more rot. Make sure you replace the paper towel often though as this will help ensure you can enjoy fresh greens for so much longer.

3. Recycle
There’s a pretty good chance you go through a lot of plastic bags, paper bags, plastic wrap and other recyclables on a daily basis. You don’t have to let these items go to waste though! Instead, use them to help your food stay fresher for longer. When you separate your produce to place on the counter or in the refrigerator try to put the different produce in plastic bags. This will help add more protection in case one of the other items begins to rot before the others. This will also make it easier to keep an eye on your produce as you won’t have to sort through drawers to decide what needs to be thrown out. If you like to buy mushrooms then remove them from the plastic and place them in a paper grocery bag or paper lunch bag. This helps keep them tasting delicious for much longer. Asparagus also benefits greatly from plastic bags. Simply place them upright like a bouquet of flowers and place a plastic bag over the top of them. If you love dicing items like onions, herbs or peppers then place your leftovers in a plastic bottle and place them in the freezer. Finally, use some plastic wrap to place around the stem of a bunch of bananas, it’ll keep them edible for longer.

4. Pre-Plan Meals
Planning ahead can be one of the easiest ways to save money and time. If you’re looking to get out of grocery shopping for a while then make a list of meals you’d like to have and bulk shop for them. When you get home cut up the produce and separate the meat per meal then add each of the preplanned meals into a ziplock or food saver bag with the necessary spices. Once you’ve got everything ready to go then slap on a label and pop it in the freezer. With each of the meal plans perfectly portioned out and ready to go you can easily throw it in the crockpot or oven for an easy way to have dinner ready with little effort. The best thing is, you don’t have to shop for one specific meal at a time, which means you can use all of the items you buy rather than having bits and pieces of the recipe left over for waste! If you shop with frugality in mind you may even be able to get a month’s worth of food together in one shopping trip!

5. Know How to Store It
Produce doesn’t come with an instruction manual, so it’s often hard to know just how to store things! There’s lot of ways you can keep your food longer though! For instance, you should never store potatoes and onions together as this will cause the potatoes to sprout and the onions to rot. Instead, store potatoes with apples as this keeps both items fresher for longer and store onions individually in panty hose. If you love fresh tomatoes then don’t just leave them sitting on the counter or taking up room in the refrigerator. Instead, place them stem down in a cardboard box or paper bag. This ensures they keep their freshness so you can enjoy them for much longer. Some of your items belong on the counter, such as melons and avocados, while other items need to be kept cool in the refrigerator, like carrots, corn and jalapenos. Of course, if you’re a fan of ginger then you may want to put it straight in the freezer to keep it usable. Other items, such as broccoli, celery and lettuce can be wrapped in tin foil and placed in the refrigerator for a fresher taste. If you buy a lot of root vegetables then place them in a box or pot of sand to keep them fresh. Also, if you find yourself slicing items like tomatoes or lemons and saving the rest for later then you may want to look into food savers which clip onto the sliced produce to preserve it for longer!

6. Mason Jars
When it comes to produce, nothing will make it last longer than the amazing mason jar. If you have an abundance of certain foods then look up some recipes and store them in the mason jars. For instance, if you find a great deal on tomatoes then you may want to try making your own salsa, marina or even V8 which can help stretch your groceries even further. You may also want to consider making jams, or preserved fruit to last you when the foods are out of season. Mason jars are also great for making fruit infused waters or teas. You can stretch your dairy products even further by adding them to coffee in a mason jar and storing it for a quick breakfast. You may also want to make overnight oatmeal or other easy to heat dishes which can be stored for longer in these jars.

7. Vinegar Wash
In many areas you may find your produce is bad after only a few days. This can be terrible especially if a lot of your budget goes towards these healthy items. One way to help fix this problem is to clean the produce when you bring it home from the store. Simply add vinegar to some water in the sink or a big bowl and let the product soak in it. This will not only clean the items, but also helps preserve them because it removes the chemicals that linger from farms, storage or sorting facilities as well as the grocery store. Some people even claim their produce lasted weeks longer than it normally would have using this method!

8. Preserve Dairy
Dairy products are often the fastest items to go, which is unfortunate since they tend to also be some of the more expensive items. There’s a few ways to make these items last a bit longer though. For starters, make sure to store and dairy item inside the refrigerator rather than on the door. This will keep cooling even which helps the product last longer. If you have trouble using dairy up before it goes bad then sprinkle a touch of salt into your milk or cream. This helps keep it fresh a bit longer. Also, if you slice cheese often then take a little butter and smear it on the cut end. This will prevent it from hardening so your cheese stays tasty.

9. Bulk Buys
If you hate shopping then buying in bulk is one of the best and cheapest ways to get things done. Make a list of the items the family uses a lot of and shop for them at your favorite bulk store. With an abundance of the items in the home you can easily store them to ensure you won’t have to go and buy them again. Produce is one of the easiest items when it comes to bulk buys. Simply pick up the item, chop it up and place it in the freezer once you’ve placed it in a sealed bag or container. This will ensure you always have the items you need when it comes to a special recipe. You may also take to making your favorite snack foods in bulk thanks to large bags of sugar, flower and other baking supplies. Simply freeze what’s unused and you’re good to go for some time!

10. Clean
One of the fastest ways to destroy your groceries is to put them into a dirty refrigerator or onto a dirty surface. It is important to take the time and clean out your refrigerator and other storage areas before you bring in new foods. Often we just forget or keep putting it off, but as germs and bacteria begin to build up you may find your food goes bad faster and faster. Simply wiping down the refrigerator and cabinets can add life to your foods. You may also want to consider adding baking soda to the refrigerator to help remove odors that destroy the quality of your food!

Preserving your foods is a great way to go into the New Year with a bit more money and a lot more time. With these ten simple tips you may find you worry less about shopping and your meals and snacks taste a whole lot better. Not to mention, there’ll be less waste which is great for the environment! So, enjoy feeding your family without stressing over the shopping process or spending too much at the grocery store.

Looking into the New Year it is clear that 2015 is going to be filled with an abundance of beautiful astronomical scenes. So, why wait to get into astronomy? Many people don’t consider taking to astronomy as a hobby because there’s often a large price tag attached to it. However, if you’re really interested in getting a start on this fascinating science there’s a few tricks you can use to avoid the high cost without having to miss out on all the fascinating happenings. With these ten tips you may find yourself searching the night sky in no time all. With all of the beautiful events speculated for the coming year, you’ll be so impressed with your new hobby that you may even consider getting rid of cable!

1. Start Basic
Often, when someone decides to get into a hobby they tend to go all out believing it will be more beneficial in the long run. Astronomy offers a wide selection of books, guides, programs and telescopes that can get you started off, but the price tag is a bit high. Rather than buying the most expensive items as soon as possible you should start on the more basic spectrum. You can usually get a basic telescope at a great price at any online or local retail store. You may also be able to find one at a second hand store. The basic telescope will allow you to ease into the hobby, thus giving you time to decide if you would even spend large portions of time on it if given the chance. It will also give you a chance to get used to the basic features of a telescope. Sometimes when you buy the most expensive model around you may find it confusing which often puts people off of the hobby entirely. You may also want to try the hobby with binoculars. This won’t give you as much seeing power, but it’s a great start especially if you don’t have a lot of space.

2. Shop Used
There’s no law saying you have to go out and buy a brand new telescope just because you’ve decided to take an interest in astronomy. Rather, you may find your best deal at a used store or auction. It doesn’t matter if you’re just starting out or if you’ve been into the hobby for quite some time, typically you can find a used telescope at a great price. Although your options may be a tad limited locally, a few quick searches on the internet might lead you to a price that will leave you doing the happy dance. Before you buy a used telescope make sure you’ve looked it over or the seller has had it appraised. Appraisal could be key if you’re buying the item online as it will ensure you’re going to get what you’ve been asked to pay for. Sometimes a telescope may not have all of the accessories it originally came from, but some items you may want to have brand new, or you can find them for very cheap online.

3. Use an App
Living in the modern world is pretty awesome, especially when you want to try something new without spending a small fortune. There’s a lot of apps available for anyone looking to get into astronomy and quite a few of them are free to a very low cost! In fact, if you’re just starting out and want to know more about planets, constellations and other items you see then all you have to do is move your phone or tablet over the night sky and the universe will open up for you. This is perfect for those just starting to identify constellations! Of course, if you live in a city which makes its pretty hard to see stars then you may actually be able to use the app to see what normally would be there. This is great for those special events that many city dwellers are forced to miss out on due to the city’s ample lights!

4. Visit the Library
When it comes to unlocking information, your library is a great place to start. Sure, we all have internet access that can pretty much find whatever we want, but a librarian can actually become your tour guide to the wonderful world of space. Most librarians will be able to direct you to the best books on the subject and may even be able to provide you with a detailed list of things to research based on the topic of your interest. Better yet, some libraries will actually host star gazing days. You may end up watching the stars move on a ceiling, but the experience is both educational and rewarding. If you live in an area that has great star visibility then your local library might actually host star gazing events for the community, so make sure to ask around to see if your library is one of these. If not, you’ll still have free access to the numerous books as well as scholarly databases that your library can provide for you!

5. Planetarium
If stargazing is your favorite way to spend your spare time then a planetarium may be the perfect hang out for you! Not all communities have a planetarium so you may want to look and see if there is one nearby you. Typically, you’ll find these connected to schools or colleges, but occasionally there are standalone planetariums that cater to the public. When you’ve found what you’re looking for check out the pricing. Some will actually offer free entrance, especially if they are school or government funded, whilst others will charge a fee. You may be in luck if they have a free night though, but if not try to look for discounts wherever possible. At the planetarium you will be able to get basic information on outer space which will satisfy your star gazing needs. Many can even give you a closer look at stars that are closer to our own solar system. On special nights you may also be able to view the night sky in the planetarium, so make sure you buy tickets in advance whenever you want to catch a meteor shower up close!

6. Build a Telescope
If you want to create a fun science experiment for the family then make it your mission to build a telescope. Now, this may sound overly complicated so don’t stress out just yet. There’s different levels of telescopes you can build at home. One simple one that’s designed for kids can actually be made out of recyclables like a toilet paper roll. Of course, if you’re feeling adventurous you can step it up several notches, but work within your comfort zone. When it comes to building a telescope make sure you look for your materials at used stores and scrap or junk yards. This should help you find most of what you need without causing you to spend a fortune. You may also want to only choose DIY telescopes that you can build with your own tools or hands as paying for someone’s help may cost as much as actually buying a pricier telescope. Try to do some browsing online to see if anything strikes your fancy. You should be able to find video and written instructions that will guide you through each process.

7. Shop Wisely
Picking up a new hobby can be intimidating which leads many people to purchase items they don’t need. Before you go out and buy something, like a telescope, do some research on the item. You’ll find a lot of different brands out there and each will have their own feature. If you’re just interested in checking out the stars then you might end up paying too much for a telescope that’s never going to be used to its full potential. Likewise, if you end up buying a telescope that doesn’t meet your needs then you’re going to end up losing money when you have to sell it and buy something more suitable. You should also look at reviews before you settle on one such item. These usually help guide people in the right direction, especially if you can find a review that seems to fit your shopping situation. You should research other items too though, such as books and programs to help along the way! With the right shopping skills you’ll come out financially on top.

8. Free Classes
We live in a world filled with knowledge so utilize it as much as you can. Sometimes local colleges or planetariums will host free class night to anyone interested in learning more about the world outside of our world. Although these classes may be rare, finding a class online isn’t. Many colleges now release recorded lessons for students and the public, which can come in handy when you’re looking to learn. From apps to actual college websites, you should be able to find a class, or even full semesters worth of work, when you browse astronomy courses online. With these handy tools by your side you’ll know how to navigate the night sky in no time at all!

9. Follow Science News
If you’re simply wanting to catch the most action, rather than spend hours looking at stars then science news is the way to go. You can get basic science news on most news sites, but if you’re looking for astronomy related items then you may need to look on specialized pages. There’s an abundance of science websites on the net as well as those on astronomy, so help yourself to the news by visiting them daily or signing up for their newsletter. One of the best websites to sign up for is NASA as you’ll get the top news as well as suggestions to help improve the amount of fun you have with the hobby. With your subscriptions ready to go you’ll be alerted whenever something big is happening. Of course, if you have social media then simply follow or like a page that provides you with astronomy news!

10. Naked Eye
One of the cheapest and easiest ways to enjoy astronomy is through the naked eye. You don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy star gazing, nor do you need anything special to see some meteor showers, shooting stars and planets. If you live in the city then it may seem impossible to enjoy star gazing, so do yourself a favor and take a trip out of town. You may want to plan a camping trip or simply go for a long drive until there’s no people around. With the lack of lighting available you’ll be able to see some of the best scenes that the universe has to offer. Trips like this are also a great way to bond with the whole family, so it might be a good idea just to get away from it all and enjoy something spectacular together. If you’re not sure where to find the best spots to star gaze then look on the internet, or simply hop in the car and drive until you find just what you’re looking for.

Outer space is still a big mystery to us, but looking up at the night sky can be one of the most beautiful things we experience. When it comes to astronomy you shouldn’t have to shudder away because of the price tag attached to it. In fact, with these ten tips you should be on top of the latest happenings while getting to see all of the beautiful things headed our way in 2015!

With a New Year to look forward to you may be thinking of how you’re going to accomplish your New Year’s Resolution without spending a fortune. If you’ve decided to cut down or stop smoking this year then you’re in luck as there’s many great ways to cheaply quit the habit. Although many people may advise a lot of expensive remedies, medications, patches and counseling, there’s many ways you can avoid these expenditures without sacrificing your ability to quit. Before you realize it you’ll be smoke free and your bank account won’t have been depleted to get you there! So, toss out your last pack of cigarettes and get ready to save money and improve your health greatly.

1. Ask For Help
This may be one of the hardest aspects of quitting smoking especially if you don’t like to ask others to help you. However, it can be one of the most crucial steps in the process and can even save you a lot more money. Before you stop smoking you should talk to your doctor about the process as well as steps you can take to lessen the stress of quitting. Make sure to mention you’re sticking to a budget so your doctor can help work around your financial needs. With a special referral you may even be able to get your insurance to cover medications or counseling so you won’t have to pay anything out of pocket. Apart from the doctor, you should always discuss your plan to stop smoking with your friends, family and co-workers. This will allow people to know you’re going to be tense and over stressed and will hopefully encourage others to avoid smoking around you. It will also ensure you have at least one person to talk to or to keep your distracted when the cravings get to be too much.

2. Know the Right Time
Although New Years is here and you probably want to get a jump start on your resolution, it may not be the best time to stop smoking. In fact, if you’re under a lot of stress or aren’t content with where you’re at then you might want to hold off until you’re actually feeling happy. Sure, no one wants to complicate the positive times in life, but when it comes to smoking its best to do it when you’re feeling good. Quitting on a whim can cause you to start right back up which will mean all your efforts will be for nothing. So, wait until a stressful period has passed and then try your luck. With the lack of stress preventing you from wanting a cigarette, your cravings will die down sooner so you can move on without having to spend a fortune on aids to help you stop.

3. Get Busy
A lot of smokers will pick up a cigarette out of boredom, while others feel cravings more when they’re not doing anything. So, avoid cravings by keeping yourself busy as much as you can for the first few weeks. Many smokers like to take up jogging during this time. The cardio workout will help clear out your lungs faster and will make cravings disappear. Another popular task in crocheting which ensures the hands are busy. With your concentration on your craft and your hands holding the needles you should forget about the cravings more and more. Picking up an instrument is another great distraction as it keeps your hands and your mind busy. Music is also great for relaxation which calms the body and reduces your need for the cigarette. Of course, there’s an abundance of things you can do to keep yourself busy, so follow your instincts and find something that will make you happy.

4. Snack Healthy
You may not realize how key your diet can be when it comes to quitting smoking. Many people crave cigarettes after eating certain foods, so if you know your triggers then try to avoid them for the first couple of months. Fast food and coffee tend to be some of the more common items that cause cigarette cravings. In fact, you may want to consider cutting out coffee for at least 2 months while you quit smoking as the excess caffeine could give you the jitters until the nicotine has worked out of your system. Rather than eating greasy and salty foods try to stick with a healthier diet. Fruits and vegetables have been said to detour the cravings of cigarettes substantially, so you might want to try eating healthier meals whenever possible. If you’re not a fan of vegetables then try creating healthy smoothies or juices that can substitute meals when you’re having trouble sticking to your goal. Another great food to eat is any shelled nut. These foods are healthy and filled with protein, but they’ll also distract your hands. When you feel a craving come on simply grab 3 or 4 nuts and peel away the shell. It’ll keep your mind off the craving while the food helps out your health. You may also want to consider snacks like lolly pops that allow you to keep flavor in your mouth while also keeping your hands busy.

5. Switch to a Vaporizer
If you’re not quite ready to take on quitting cold turkey then the vaporizer may be the best way to go. Vaporizers allow you to set your nicotine levels so you can start high and gradually lower how much nicotine you’re getting in a day. This will allow you to limit your withdrawals so quitting won’t be as challenging. Vaporizers will also keep up with the physical habit of smoking so you won’t have to find a way to combat the need to hold something in your hands until you’re ready to quit once and for all. The best thing about vaporizers is many companies will actually give you a coupon to get a free one which will help you save even more money. With cigarettes and their accessories off your shopping list you’ll spend a fraction of the amount on vaporizer accessories. You may even be able to find special flavors that will make transitioning from cigarette to something new even easier. Vaporizers also take away many of the harmful aspects of smoking so you’ll be doing your lungs a favor the moment you decide to toss the cigarettes.

6. Avoid Smokers
One problem with quitting smoking is it’s hard to do it when the world around you carries on with the habit. Smelling or watching other people smoke could bring back the craving so you may want to avoid smokers until you feel comfortable that you’ve kicked the habit for good. This may be hard as smokers are everywhere, but there are a few steps you can take to eliminate the temptation from your life. For instance, rather than stepping outside during your office break try doing office friendly stretches or chatting with colleagues in the break room. You could also walk the stairs during break to ensure you get some exercise which will help avoid cravings. You may also want to steer clear of parties for the time being unless you know it’s a non-smoker oriented party. On the weekends, try to stay in and clean or work on a hobby. If you do decide to go out then make sure you stay busy and visit friends that don’t smoke or those you know won’t smoke in front of you. Also, when you visit a café make sure to eat inside where smoking is not allowed.

7. Keep a Journal
Another key element to kicking smoking is to keep a journal. You may not think this is helpful in the beginning, but writing will help you work out your frustrations so you can get out some of your stress without taking to a cigarette. When you start in your journal make sure to write down how you’re feeling, the amount of cravings you had in the day or what you did to avoid them. As you start to feel better about not smoking then you can look back on your journey. Of course, keeping the journal may also help you feel inspired to keep going, especially when you look back at the more difficult days of your quitting experience. With all of your tips and techniques written down you’ll feel proud of your accomplishment and may even be able to help others in the future.

8. Get Rid of Accessories
When you stop smoking you may find that seeing all of your smoking accessories might make the cravings turn up again. Rather than leaving the items out like you’re planning on smoking again, you should get rid of them or pack them up. One of the biggest items to get rid of is ash trays. They smell like cigarettes and could entice you to want to pick up the habit again. If you’re attached to the ash trays then pack them away in a secure box until you feel comfortable with showing them again. Matches and lighters may be trickier to deal with since you often need them for household use. If you’re having a hard time seeing them place them somewhere up high or hidden away in a drawer until you feel comfortable with them being out again.

9. Join a Support Group
Friends and family are great when you’re trying to kick a habit, but sometimes you need more help than you bargained for. There’s countless support groups online and off that can help you stop the cravings and ensure you don’t pick up the habit again. You might want to start by asking your doctor or counselor for recommendations; however, often they can only provide you with groups that might cost a small fee. If this is the case then you can always try your community center as they will often have information that you can use to find a group at no cost to you. You may also want to look online. There’s many websites that cater to your needs or you could join a special group on social media which will give you convenient access to support whenever you need it.

10. Be Reasonable
One of the top things you can do when quitting smoking is use your reasoning skills. Clearly there’s reasons why you want to stop so write them down on index cards and keep them with you. When you’re feeling an urge to smoke pull out the notes and read why you don’t want to cave in to the craving. If your health is at the top of the list then add a picture of a healthy lung and a smoker’s lung for a dramatic and affective reason to stop. You could also come up with ways your smoking affects those around you in negative ways. Money is another big contributor. Try putting the money you’d spend on cigarettes each day into a jar to remind you how much you’re saving by not giving in. You could also write down the costs of cigarettes as well as the costs of something you really want, which could inspire you to save more. The more reasons you have the better off you’ll be!

Smoking doesn’t have to control your life forever. If your New Year’s resolution is to stop smoking, or you just want to quit for yourself then there’s never been a better time to try. With these ten tips you should be able to cut down on the amount of money you have to spend in order to quit while ensuring you don’t feel the urge to go back to your smoking lifestyle. Once the cravings have left you’ll be rewarded with better health and even more money to enjoy!

If you plan on shedding some pounds or bulking up for your New Year’s resolution then a gym membership might be the key to your success. The only problem is, gym memberships can cost you a pretty penny if you’re not quite certain what you’re looking for. There are a lot of ways to avoid the high costs of working out at a gym though, so don’t stress out just yet! With these ten tips you can easily find the membership you need to meet your goals while also keeping to your budget. So, don’t work out your piggy bank just to find a convenient way to meet your health goals, because these tips will have you on your way to success in no time at all.

1. Know When to Buy
If you’re looking to start on your resolution right away, one of the smartest things you can do is put the idea on hold. During the cold months more people flock to gyms and order memberships because it’s not convenient to work out outside. Due to the demand prices go way up which means you’re going to lose out if you’re looking to save money. The best time to get your membership is during the hotter months of summer. As winter passes people will want to get in shape in order to get their body’s looking good for the summer, so early spring isn’t exactly ideal either. With summer, people are outside moving around which means the gyms won’t see the same amount of business. Thus, it’s time for you to swoop in and buy your yearly pass before the prices spike back up for autumn. Don’t worry though as there’s plenty of ways to work out during the off-season months so you can prepare for your intense workout in the gym.

2. YMCA
There’s a lot of name brand gyms out there which will cost you quite a bit of money for a membership. You don’t have to go straight for these gyms though, even if they seem to offer you the best deals. Instead, you may want to check out your local YMCA or other community group. The YMCA has offers the community workout equipment, classes and in many cases a pool in order allow the community to keep fit and healthy. The best thing is, the YMCA doesn’t cost an arm and a leg, so you won’t have to worry about your budget being spent after one membership. You can always call and check around to see if a better deal is offered, but you may not be able to get as many services as the YMCA offers for a price as low they offer. The YMCA also offers a nice family environment, so you won’t have to worry about childcare or your older children getting bored while you work out.

3. Be Specific
A lot of gyms offer pretty generic packages which may not cater to your gym needs. It’s important to be specific as to what you’re looking for when it comes to purchasing a gym membership. Some companies won’t stray from their packages, so you may end up paying for items you never use or you may end up not getting what you want out of a package. Either way you won’t get your money’s worth out of your package. Try comparing different options in different gyms to see which will actually cost you less for exactly what you want. You may also consider asking if you can do a custom plan, so you can get the classes or gym time you need without paying for a generic package of items you may not be ready for. When you choose your plan you may also want to discuss your fitness level as this could also affect the price.

4. Alumni Status
If you’ve recently graduated or are still enrolled in a college or university then you may be able to get a great deal on a gym membership. Many schools will actually open up their gyms to the public in order to bring in more revenue, so make sure to call your school’s gym and see what the policy is. Often, students will be able to get into the gym at no cost, which is a huge benefit as many school gyms have just about anything you could possibly need to get in shape. If you’re an alumni then you should be entitled to a major discount, although some schools will still allow recent grads to take to the gym at no extra cost. On the other hand, many schools will also make deals with local gyms so students can get a large discount off the services. Make sure you present your student ID card whenever you check out a new gym as they may offer you a student membership or a discount that will save you big time.

5. Price Match
Many people have a preferred gym they’d like to go to, but sometimes the price just doesn’t meet the budget. If this is the case then do a little shopping around before you decide on paying the hefty price for the gym of your dreams. Sometimes, if you find a lower price on a similar deal a gym may actually match the price. You may have to bring in a sales ad or even a payment plan for the other gym in order to prove the price, but if the gym you love will honor the deal you’ll be able to get just what you need for the price that matched your budget. Of course, not all gyms will do this, so don’t be afraid to take the better deal to your second choice. Before you know it you’ll eventually strike gold which will help you work out for less many than advertised.

6. Read the Fine Print
Many gyms will tack on fees to services you won’t ever use. For instance, a childcare fee is one of the more common items you’ll find on your receipt. However, if you don’t have children you’re paying this for no reason at all! So, rather than sign away, take the time to talk to the gym about each little fee. You may be surprised as to how many you can take off of you bill so you won’t have to pay for items you’re never going to use. The key here is to comb through your contract though. If you don’t have time to do it while you’re at the gym then ask for a copy so you can read it on your own time. When you’re sure it’s the gym you want to work with then schedule a meeting and see if you can get some negotiations in. This will ensure you’re only paying for what you need rather than childcare, classes and spa services you might never touch.

7. Insurance/Employee Discounts
One key factor that a lot of people look over is their employee benefits as well as their insurance discounts. Both of these items can offer up a world of discounts that make your workouts go even further than you ever thought possible. Before you sign up for a gym talk to your boss or personnel office to see if there are any gyms they get deals with. Many employers will offer discounts on these items in order to keep their employees healthy. Some businesses may even provide passes for employees, which will save you time and money. You may also want to talk to your insurance company. Some companies will give you discount passes for gyms while others will lower your rates when you prove you’re a member in a gym. This will also help save money while helping you reach your goals with the money saving incentives.

8. Pay Upfront
When it comes to saving money on a gym one of your best bets may actually be to hand over the money upfront. Many gyms will offer bulk deals to customers which actually ends up saving quite a bit of money over time. Although low monthly rates may seem appealing, by paying the lump sum when you join the gym you could save over a hundred dollars. Sometimes, rates fluctuate which can cause you to have to pay more during prime months. Whereas, when you go ahead and get the payment in you actually reduce the price you pay each month, thus saving you big time. Many people don’t like doing this because there’s months in which they may not use the gym. In most cases, you can put a hold on your membership so if you plan on being out of town for a month, or become ill or have surgery then your membership will be paused so you can carry out the months when you can actually make it to the gym.

9. Online Access
Living in a digital world brings many benefits to anyone looking for an outstanding workout. If you’re not much of an equipment person than joining an online access program may be right up your alley. These websites charge you a low monthly fee, or one bulk price, and provide you with access to support groups, workout tools and online classes. Online access is perfect for anyone that loves to workout at home rather than a facility as well as anyone that likes to squeeze in a workout during lunch breaks at work, or whenever a free moment arises. The classes range from intense cardio and lifting to pilates, yoga and beginner courses. The best thing is you can experience a variety of workouts without having to follow a set schedule. You can even do the work outs over and over if you find one that suits your style. Of course, if you’re looking to save even more money then you may want try looking up free subscriptions as there are many websites dedicating to making others healthy. A lot of gyms will also offer free online downloads to give prospective customers a look at what they have to offer.

10. PassBook
If you don’t like to feel tied down with a contract or don’t always have time to spend at a gym then you may want to check into PassBook. This amazing product is presented to consumers by the American Health and Fitness Association so you’ll know you’re getting a good deal with it. The book is $75 per year, but if provides you with a large variety of free classes, workout time, passes to gyms and other health seminars that will help you get in shape and stay healthy. Each of the passes can be redeemed for 2 or more visits so if you like a gym you can always go back. The PassBook will also give you access to many places you may not have known about or might not have otherwise visited. You might find that after a year of the PassBook you’ll have discovered new workouts and exercise habits that make you feel incredible. The best thing is, the PassBook holds so many amazing vouchers that you’ll probably be able to do something each day of the year without having to spend any extra money. The PassBook is designed for your city, so see if your area qualifies and enjoy a year of getting fit and trying new things.

Joining a gym doesn’t mean you should lose out on all of your spending money. There’s a wide variety of options out there to choose from, so you don’t have to lose every penny you have in the name of getting fit. With these ten tips you should find yourself loving your gym time while ensuring your New Year’s resolution will be accomplished!

New Years is a time to start fresh and make positive changes in your life, so why would you begin 2015 with even more debt caused by celebrating it? Sure, it’s great to have a good time and send off the old year in style, but you don’t have to go on a spending spree to do so. With a few money saving techniques you can say goodbye to 2014 and hello to 2015 without even breaking out the credit card. With these simple to follow tips you’ll start next year off on a positive note without having to sacrifice a good time or add to your already growing holiday debt! So, get ready to count down and ring in the New Year completely stress free!

1. Free Fireworks
A lot of communities like to host their very own New Year’s extravaganza, so make sure to check out what your area has in store. Many places will host a free firework display which will allow people of all ages to spend time together and make sure 2015 arrives in style. Often these events host some amazing local musicians as well as other small activities that will keep your family busy until it’s time to countdown. Before you leave for an event make sure to bundle up or bring extra blankets just in case you get too cold. This will prevent you from having to leave early or buy something to keep you warm while you’re outside. You may also want to pack hot cocoa and coffee in thermoses and pack some snacks so you won’t have to buy overpriced refreshments. This activity should take up most of your night and will allow you to skip buying pricey fireworks without having to miss out on their magic!

2. Leftovers
A lot of people will have enjoyed a huge feast for Christmas which might make buying another large meal way out of the budget. You shouldn’t have to stress about this too much though! Chances are you had a pretty good amount of leftovers from your holiday meal that no one is going to want to eat after a few days. Rather than putting all of the leftovers in the refrigerator after the big feast, try to turn some of them into appetizers or small finger foods. This is especially easy with meats, but you can also do it with fruit or vegetable dishes too. Another good thing to serve is the leftover pies and other sweets that aren’t going to be eaten as fast as you imagined. Simply cut each one into smaller pieces and you’re set for a tasty and budget friendly menu that will appease a wide assortment of guests. When you have your little treats and appetizers ready to go then pop them in the freezer so they don’t go bad between the two holidays. By the time New Year’s comes around your family will be ready for round 2 of the holiday meal which will cut down on leftovers all together!

3. Bring Your Own Drinks
One of the most expensive items for any party is drinks and most New Year’s parties require a whole lot of them. If you plan on hosting a party this holiday, don’t be embarrassed to include a Bring Your Own Drink tab on the invite. This will save you hundreds of dollars without actually sacrificing the quality of your party. If you can get everyone to sign up for specific drinks, or require everyone to bring at least one with them, then you should have enough to go around. This will allow you to spend a bit more on food, decor or entertainment without having to sweat a huge bill at the end of the night. You don’t have to limit drinks to alcohol either. Soda, punch and even water should be welcome on the list as people will require something else to drink throughout the night.

4. Decorations
Many people who host New Year’s parties want to go out and spend more money on decorations for this holiday. There’s absolutely no need to do so though. You can easily leave up your Christmas items which will set the mood for the occasion perfectly. If you don’t like to leave up the Christmas decor then put away the tree and other holiday specific items and then bring in the lighting from outside. The fun white lights will add to the ambiance of the room and will prevent you from having to buy even more decor! Tinsel is another great item to add to the mix as it will give a special shine to your home and is incredibly cheap to buy if you don’t already have some leftover from Christmas. Of course, you can still add some New Year specific items to the mix. Try creating a banner using cheap rolled paper, glitter and paint. You can also use print outs to spread the holiday joy throughout the home. Another idea is to leave around cocktail glasses as decoration which will set a fun mood for your guests. Fill them with decorative rocks or tinsel to make them look even more festive! There’s plenty more ideas online, so if you’re at a loss start browsing today!

5. Shop Bulk
When it comes to feeding a whole lot of people, nothing will save your budget quite like bulk buying. Try to head to your local wholesale store and see if there are any items on clearance from the holidays. You may also try to plan your budget around the bulk items that you can get at a good price. Many of these stores will offer great prices on finger foods and snacks that will keep guests satisfied throughout the night. You may also want to look at alcohol in bulk stores too. You’ll save a lot of money if you can manage to shop for boxed wine rather than the small bottles. These wines will last quite some time so guests won’t be disappointed by the lack of party supplies. You might also want to consider larger bottles of spirits. These won’t go as fast, so if you have any leftover you can span the contents throughout the year, which will save you even more money.

6. Clearance
Luckily, New Year’s follows one of the biggest holidays of the year, Christmas. Thus, you should be able to follow the Christmas clearance trail to everything you need for the holiday. You may want to start in the food section! Stock up on appetizers, desserts, sparkling cider and even wine for a special treat for your guests. It doesn’t matter if the food tends to be holiday specific because you can always redecorate or add some New Year’s decor to the dish to make it seem more festive. Another great item to buy during this time is lighting which can be used as decor for the party. White lights are the perfect mood setter and will ensure you get to enjoy a small burst of holiday fun before the decor goes back into storage. Another great item to buy is holiday poppers! They’re perfect to ring in the New Year and will be in the Christmas clearance bin too. There’s also a lot of other assorted props, so make sure to look around to see what you can find for your celebration!

7. Entertainment
If you’re having a party and are worried about keeping everyone entertained then you may want to relax as there is a wide selection of things to do which don’t cost a thing. Most parties thrive on music, but you won’t have to spend a bundle on CDs or downloads to make your guests happy. There’s lot of internet radios that don’t cost a thing and many will even have New Year playlists ready to go which saves you plenty of time. If you’re going to have guests for a few hours then come up with a trivia game based on the past year. You can easily find facts online for this as there will be an assortment of articles looking back on the past year published throughout the week. You can also create a charades game based on the past year. If your party is on the more intimate side of the spectrum then have everyone chat with a nice glass of wine. You can each take turns talking about your past year’s highlights. You may also want to talk about next year’s resolutions and predictions. This is a great time to start up support groups and could even lead to hours passing by without anyone realizing it!

8. Visit Relatives/Friends
Sometimes getting away for the holidays is an absolute must, but finding the time and money isn’t exactly on the agenda. If this is the case then you may want to ask a nearby friend or relative if you can stay with them for the night. This is particularly great if you live in a small town or suburb and want to experience New Year’s from a city dwellers perspective. Even if you can only stay for a day or two it should give you a refreshed feeling when you return back home to start on work. It will also give you some time to catch up with someone you may not get to see often. The best thing is, you’ll probably only spend a bit on transportation and other small travel costs so you won’t have to worry about your budget in the slightest. With these savings you might even be able to pay to see something cool in the city which will leave your family’s memories of this New Year’s even better.

9. Late Night Potluck
One of the problems with New Year’s parities is they tend to last hours longer because the party needs to at least last until midnight. If you want to host a party this year, but you’re on a tight budget you may want to ask your guests to join you in a late night potluck opposed to the classic party. This will allow friends and family to visit others before they come to you, so they’ll already feel the buzz of the holiday. With everyone bringing a dish along with them you can easily sit down to a meal at 10 or 11 and wait for midnight to ring you in to a New Year. With everyone showing up to eat dinner so late you won’t have to worry about spending money to entertain everyone, nor will you have to worry about providing them with hours’ worth of drinks. Thus, the party will become even more memorable and fun while saving you a whole lot of money!

10. Keep it Simple
Of course, New Year’s doesn’t have to be all about going out or hosting parties. Rather, you can save even more money by staying at home and having an easy night with your family. Instead of planning a big outing try to create a modest meal for everyone. You may even have the whole family cook together to help the night pass by faster. When you’ve finished your meal make some hot cocoa and play some board games. The kids will love the time as a family! You can also chat about the New Year in front of a fire and talk about future goals. When the time nears then switch on the TV and watch the ball drop. There’s really countless things to do as a family at home, so let the mood guide you!

New Years is a great time to hang out with friends and family and look back on the past year. With these ten easy ideas for your holiday, you should be able to have some fun with those you love without worrying about spending too much money. With a frugal celebration on your side, you’ll feel keen to start the New Year off right.

Whether you’re celebrating Kwanzaa for the first time or your family has enjoyed the occasion for decades, it’s always nice to save a little money on the holiday. With Christmas just wrapping up and New Year’s rapidly on its way, you may find that your budget is so strapped you’ll need a miracle to pull off another holiday. This doesn’t have to be a concern when it comes to your Kwanzaa dining though. With these ten simple tips you’ll be able to create a masterful menu that will have everyone wanting to spend the rest of the holiday around your dinner table. So, pull out your favorite recipes, check out these tips and you’ll be ready to plan the best Kwanzaa menu yet without having to plunge into debt.

1. Farmer’s Market
When it comes to Kwanzaa recipes you know you’re going to spend a whole lot of time in the produce aisle, which could be a tad expensive if you’re shopping at a regular grocery store. Instead of shopping here first, try to head to your local farmer’s market to see what kind of deals you can get there. Yes, it may be winter but there’s a good chance you’ll find just about everything you’re looking for at the market. In fact, you may also be able to grab some of the meats you were hoping to find! The best thing is, the prices at a Farmer’s Market are much better than shopping at a typical grocery store, which also means you can buy a lot more for a lot less. When you shop at a Farmer’s Market you’re also giving back to your community which will help other families afford their own celebrations. Of course, if you’ve found yourself with more produce than you originally meant to buy then you can always use it as your Kwanzaa decor!

2. Shop Early
If you really want to avoid spending a whole lot then you’ll need to start shopping for your celebration in advance. This may not help you this year, but next year you’ll be ready to take on the meal without forcing your budget to break a sweat. Throughout the year, you can buy many meats and vegetables on sale at different times. Unfortunately, a lot of the meals you may want to have during Kwanzaa will probably feature ingredients that went out of season months ago. The solution is to do shopping for the meal around the year. When you see a great price on seafood go ahead and stock up. You can freeze the items, so when it comes time to prepare the meal you’ll be ready. You can also do the same for vegetables or other meats you may want to use in your feast! With most of the ingredients already in the freezer you may not even have to step foot in a store.

3. Make Substitutions
Sometimes we get too caught up in what a recipe says. Although it is always nice to stick with tradition and have a meal we know we’re comfortable with, sometimes it just isn’t financially plausible. This doesn’t mean you have to leave out your favorite dishes though. In fact, not having one component of the recipe could open you up to trying a little something new. For instance, if a recipe calls for shrimp then you could always swap out the ingredient for chicken or fish. You might have to alter the spices a bit, but you’ll save some money and may even introduce your family to something they’ll fall in love with. Each dish is different so you may have to do a little research to figure out which items can be substituted without messing up the meal. This should only take a brief amount of research on the internet though, so don’t stress too much.

4. Sales
Kwanzaa just so happens to begin the day after Christmas this year, which is a big bonus for anyone that’s willing to wait and do some last minute shopping. Typically, most stores will hold huge sales the day after Christmas which means if you’re willing to brave the crowds you can get a lot of the components of your meal for 50% to 80% off! Some stores will even offer larger discounts on holiday specific items like Pecan Pie. This is a pretty good advantage considering this is a great Kwanzaa dessert. Of course, you don’t always have to wait until after Christmas to do your shopping. There should be plenty of sales going on throughout the holidays which can help you get most of the items you need at a lower price. Make sure to pay attention to sales ads so you know when and where you need to do your Kwanzaa shopping.

5. Cook in Bulk
There’s 7 days of Kwanzaa which means you could end up cooking a large meal every single night for a week. This can be pricey and time consuming, not to mention exhausting. A lot of people tend to not want to cook every night especially if they have to work or are entertaining a household for the day. Rather than make meals every single night, try to plan out bulk meals. Look through your recipes and find dishes that are filling and can last for several days. Usually, if you pick soups or stews you will be able to feed the family on a small budget without having to think twice about cooking every night. If you choose a few different menu items, make several loaves of bread and provide fresh fruit then your menu should please even the most finicky of Kwanzaa guests. Luckily, there’s lots of Kwanzaa soups and stews to choose from so look online for something that suits your family’s tastes as well as your cooking skills!

6. Bulk Shopping
A lot of Kwanzaa recipes require an abundance of ingredients. You may also find yourself using the same ingredients in many of the dishes you choose. One way to help save money here is to shop in a bulk store rather than buying large amounts of an item at your typical grocery store. A lot of bulk stores, like Costco, Sam’s Club and BJ’s Warehouse, have an abundance of items that will fit into your Kwanzaa recipes nicely. From meats to fruits you will be able to purchase everything you need without having to pay the outrageous price. Typically buying items in bulk from a wholesale store means you can calculate a few freebies when you compare it to costs from a regular grocery or department store. Also, when it comes to fruit and Kwanzaa, the more you have the better so it’s best to stock up!

7. Use Leftovers
When it comes to finding the food you need for your Kwanzaa meal, you may not have to look any further than the leftovers you have from your Christmas celebration. Leftover meat can be transformed into casseroles, appetizers or other meal components that will help prevent it from spoiling in your refrigerator as well as helping you save lots of money. Pecan pie and other fruit dishes are also fairly common to have during Christmas, but they’re also part of the Kwanzaa celebration too. You may even find a lot of your side dishes can be transformed into something else to make your holiday meal even better. So, before you go out to buy more food, take a look at the abundance you already have and go from there. You may be surprised as to how much you use to create a feast for an entirely different celebration!

8. Free Recipes
A lot of people who haven’t celebrated Kwanzaa yet or are still fairly new to the holiday may find themselves looking into purchasing special books on Kwanzaa recipes, meal plans and customs. This can be one of the biggest wastes of money for the holiday season. Rather than going to a book store on a tight budget, take to the internet or your favorite cooking app to see what kind of delicious meals you can come up with. There’s thousands of recipes online as well as some free Kwanzaa ebooks, so you shouldn’t have to spend a penny on the planning of your meal! The best thing about looking at recipes online is you can actually take the same dish from several different websites and compare ingredients. This will help you figure out which one your family will probably like the best as well as which one will save you the most money. With this power in your hands you’ll be set for a few holiday meals your family will crave all year.

9. Potluck
As with any holiday, anyone that wants to host an event should consider making the celebration a potluck. This is one of the best ways to keep your tight budget away from the holiday which will help you feel the spirit of the occasion even more. Potlucks allow guests to show up with their favorite dish, which means you can get away with cooking one or two dishes and calling it a day. With the money you saved on the meal being shared with guests, you can concentrate on other aspects of the holiday or put it back for a rainy day. Potlucks are also a great learning experience for those you share them with. You’re not only getting to try someone else’s take on a dish, but you’re also getting to see some dishes you’ve never had before. If you’re new to celebrating Kwanzaa then this learning experience can help you decide what dishes you should learn to cook. It can also help you figure out who can teach you how to make some of the traditional meals if you’re not quite certain where to start.

10. Groupon
It’s only human to want to go to celebrate a special occasion by going out to eat. This is especially true if you’ve been working on the perfect holiday meal for Christmas and just need a break from your kitchen. There’s a lot of restaurants around the world that provide African cuisine, so try to log on to your favorite social media deal site and see if you can find something to help make your holiday great. A lot of the time you may find a restaurant you didn’t know existed which could even become a household favorite. Going out to eat on the holiday can be a great learning experience, especially if you’re not too familiar with the customs or food that should be served. Trying different African dishes out in a restaurant can teach you more than you think which makes it money worth spending. Of course, if you can get your friends and family in on a good deal then you’ll save a whole lot more than you think, which could actually take a big dent off of the price tag of your Kwanzaa celebration.

Holidays can be stressful and if you’re trying to support a budget for several occasions in a row then it may seem almost impossible. With these ten simple tips you shouldn’t have to compromise your Kwanzaa celebration due to money. The tips should guide you to cheaper meals that will have your entire family and inner circle raving over your amazing celebration. So take a deep breath and prepare yourself to conquer another holiday while having the time of your life with those you care about the most!

In just a few short days the kids will be home for school for a few weeks. Although the holidays may take up some of this time, there’s a good chance your children may be climbing the walls before they’re sent back to school. This time of year is especially hard to plan activities due to the money that’s already been spent on the holidays, but luckily there are a few ways to keep your kids busy without having to shell out even more money! With these ten winter break ideas your kids will be busy having fun without wanting or needing you to buy them anything to pass the time. So, don’t cut your holiday budget short just to find the money to keep your kids entertained!

1. Holiday Crafts
If you celebrate the holidays then you’re in luck because holiday crafts are one of the best ways to keep your kids occupied during the long winter break. From making their own decorations to coloring print outs, the options are endless when it comes to crafts. Before the kids are let out of school make sure your crafting supplies are ready to go. You may also want to browse around to find a few ideas to plan throughout the days. With a little preparation you should be able to plan enough craft time to take up a few hours of each day which means less time the kids will complain about being bored. You may want to start out with making homemade holiday cards, so you can mail them out as a family. Creating DIY gifts for friends and family is also a fun way to make the holidays even more meaningful while also taking up quite a bit of time. When you run out of crafting ideas then take a trip to a pottery shop. Usually you can create cheap decorations here which will be ready when it’s time to decorate. Of course, if you don’t want to pay extra then make homemade playdough and bake the decorations in the oven!

2. Bake
Nothing says home quite like an afternoon of baking in the winter time. This year bring the kids into the kitchen and have them help out. You can make cookies for Santa Claus or baked goods for your holiday feast. You may even consider baking items as gifts for friends and family. One of the best things to make for the holidays is bread, which takes a lot of work so it’ll keep kids busy for longer. Make sure to give each child a job based on their age. Kneading dough is great for all ages though and will make kids feel like baking is a lot of fun which will encourage them to want to develop more skills. Another great thing to make while you’re baking is a ginger bread house. You can easily look up a recipe online and then pull out your decorating kits. Kids will love creating a candied home which will serve as a lovely decoration too! The best thing is, while you’re baking you won’t have to run the heater as the oven will do all the work. Thus, you’ll save even more money by just having fun with the kids.

3. Snow Fun
Snow is a great part of winter break and can be one of your best ways to avoid spending money during the season. Send the kids out to play in the snow for a few hours, but make sure they’re bundle up and have supervision. Urge kids to build a snowman or snow angel to pass some time. You may also want to start a snowball fight or help the kids create an igloo. Gathering up pool toys or sleds you already own and enjoy sledding on nearby hills can bring hours of joy for the whole family. When snack time rolls around have the kids collect untouched now then bring it inside and make snow cones or snow ice cream. You can find a recipe online if you’re not sure where to start. Of course, not everyone gets snow but this doesn’t mean you have to skip out on the fun. Instead, have the kids cut our paper to make a snow man. You can also use paper plates and markers! When you have all the pieces ready to go pin it to the wall. Pillows can also take the place of snow for an epic snowball fight, but make sure you’ve moved breakables before the fun begins. You can also make shaved ice snow cones to finish off the fun.

4. Dance
By the time you’re into the first couple of days of winter break it will probably be very obvious that the kids have quite a bit of excess energy going on. One way to remedy this problem is to break out the music and dance it away. Dancing is a fun way to get kids to exercise without actually forcing them to go out and run laps. You have a lot of options when it comes to dancing too, so it can speak to kids with different interests. One way is to put on a dance channel on the TV or look up video tutorials. Kids can learn just about any form of dance this way and they may even be able to work out a routine to perform for family and friends during the holidays. Another way to inspire kids to dance is to break out dance videogames. There’s an assortment of these games that speak to very young children as well as teens. You can also just break out some music and have the whole family dance together. If the kids are arguing a lot during break then have them do a dance off to solve the problem. It may sound cheesy but kids will forget about the argument, burn some energy and will be occupied so they won’t find another reason to fight right away!

5. Playdates
Kids are used to seeing their friends almost every day at school, so they’ll probably start missing them after a couple of days of not being able to see them. Rather than let this happen try to get together with their friend’s parents to see if you can schedule a playdate or two. Simply getting the kids together for a few hours will help ease boredom and will make winter break fly by even faster. You don’t have to go all out to entertain the kids either. Usually playing out in the snow as well as with toys or videogames will satisfy most children that haven’t been able to see their friends in a few days. However, if you want to be the cool parent on the block then try to plan a slumber party. You can gather the kids for crafts, holiday stories and even prepare cheap and easy foods to make the night a success. With all of the fun had your children won’t feel bored for a second. You never know, other parents may decide to do the same thing which will give you a chance to catch up on all of the wrapping you’ve been putting off!

6. Be Charitable
It’s always a good idea to be charitable, but this season is one of the best times to give your time to a good cause. Teaching kids to give to charities is a good gift to give during this season, so when you’re all feeling bored over winter break try to find a charity you can volunteer your time to. With teenagers, a soup kitchen is always a great place to start. You may also want to look into charities like Habitat for Humanity. It is a bit harder to find things for younger children to do; however, one really great gift you can give to your community is visiting an elderly home. This will bring smiles to lots of faces and will teach children how it feels to help others. There’s lots of charities around so ask your community center about volunteering or look online. If you don’t want to go to a location, or you have very young children then you can start at home. Try donating used clothes, furniture and toys that you no longer have a use for. You can also have children volunteer their leaf raking or snow shoveling skills to the neighbors!

7. Holiday Light Viewing
One great tradition to have is to enjoy looking at the neighborhood’s holiday light displays together. If you want to maximize your savings then simply walk around a block or two and check out whatever one has to show. If you’re feeling adventurous then hop in the car and drive around for a while. With a little holiday music you’ll be on your way to a good time. You could also look online or in the local newspaper to find out which neighborhoods are participating in holiday competitions. These homes are usually a sight to see and will help you make amazing memories with your family. Some communities will also provide open light shows for free or a low cost, so make sure to look around so you won’t miss out on the beautiful displays!

8. Homework
Your kids might not be crazy about the idea, but having them sit down and do some homework on the break will benefit everyone. Generally, kids begin to lose information when they’re not in school for periods of time, so don’t send your kids back to school out of practice. You can pull questions from their textbooks, old homework or online to give you ideas on math or reading assignments. You could also get a jump start on bigger assignments, like the upcoming science fair. With a few of the projects out of the way it’ll make transitioning back into school a little easier on everyone.

9. Explore
You don’t have to be cooped up inside all winter break just because you’re on a tight budget. Instead, get out on the town and do some exploring. Look online to see if there’s a free museum day coming up and take the kids. You could also spend a day at the library as most will have crafts for the kids as well as story time. If you don’t have any free events in your area then walk around town and check out independent stores. You never know what you may find there which could give you ideas for last minute shopping or shopping after the holidays. You’d also be doing your local community a big favor by shopping at an independent store. Finally, get outside and be active. If the weather isn’t too bad then check out a new hiking trail, go bird watching or play a sport in the park.

10. Prepare for New Year’s
Getting ready to start a new year can be work. Have the kids sit down and think about improvements they’d like to make and then share them with the family. This will help start a support group early on and can even help everyone make plans to get their resolutions started on the right foot. You can also use this time to plan out vacations for the upcoming year as well as activities and sports that need to be penciled into schedules. Finally, you can really start the New Year off right by giving the house a scrub down from top to bottom!

Winter break should be a nice relaxing time for the entire family. However, with school out of the way it may seem boring for the kids. With these ten ideas you should be able to plan some seasonal magic which will make the entire family happy during this brief period away from the typical schedule. So, have some fun and enjoy spending this lovely time of year with your little ones without worrying about money, boredom or arguing!

Picking out and decorating a Christmas tree can be one of the best aspects of the holiday season. Kids and adults alike love partaking in this crafty holiday tradition each and every year. The only problem is a lot of the time coming up with money for a holiday tree can be too far out of reach. From picking out the perfect tree to adding decorations and lighting, the holiday tree can be one of the priciest aspects of the season if you’re not careful. There are a good number of ways you can avoid spending a lot of money on your tree this year though. With these ten tips you’ll find you and your family having a fantastic time as you trim the tree without worrying about the money that went into it.

1. Don’t Shop Too Early
In recent years, a lot of people want to set up for Christmas as soon as Thanksgiving is over. Some will even set up for the next holiday on Thanksgiving night. While this is good fun for the family, it’s not so great for the tree you pick. Yes, it’s tempting to head over to a tree display the moment you see them out. With all of the best trees flying off the market it’s hard to just walk away. However, doing this will end up saving you a lot of money. The longer your real tree sits in your home the drier it’s going to get before the holiday even arrives. Thus, in order to make the holiday festive you may end up going to get another tree or settling for a fake one which will only double your tree expenditures for the year. Waiting will ensure a fresher tree, but it’ll also allow you to get a better deal as trees won’t be in as high of demand. You may even get a deal on decorations and lighting closer to the holiday, so hold out for the better prices if you can.

2. Follow Care Instructions
One of the key factors to keeping a tree looking great is following instructions. When you buy your tree you should also get a receipt telling you how to set it up, water it and feed it. Some tree salesmen will even provide you with a special food for your tree. Keeping up with the tree will help preserve it through the holidays. This means you can enjoy the rich green colors without having to step on pine needles all day long. The most important thing is keeping up with the water. A dried out tree isn’t just not pretty to look at, but it can be a huge fire hazard, which is expensive and dangerous. It’s also important to know what kind of tree you’re getting. Ask your salesmen before you take it home. With this knowledge you can look up special techniques to help keep your tree thriving for much longer.

3. Go Eco-Friendly
If you’re feeling the spirit of giving taking over your holiday then you may want to give back to planet Earth and your wallet. One easy way to do this is to buy an artificial holiday tree. There’s a lot of different brands, styles and materials of trees on the market now so choose what suits your family best. With a fake tree you only pay once for something you will use year after year. This may not save you money this year, but as time passes you’ll be grateful you won’t have to go tree shopping each year. You also won’t have to waste a real tree each year which is better for the environment. Another thing you can do is invest in solar or battery operated lights. These lights will help take money away from the power bill while allowing you to enjoy good quality festive lighting on your tree. You can also make decorations out of your recyclables so you won’t have to waste the products. There’s lots of tutorials and ideas online, so take a look and enjoy saving the environment.

4. DIY Decorations
Decorations for the tree can be one of the priciest things you can buy during the holiday season. From themed pieces to bulbs with simple holiday tidings on them, there’s a lot to choose from and it can certainly be hard to say no. This is especially true when your kids see ornaments with their favorite characters. Rather than spend a small fortune on items that go on the tree you can easily get together with the family and make your own. One great way to start out with your decorations is to use playdough. You can use cookie cutters or shape the pieces by hand. When you’re finished cut a hole in the top of the ornament for a ribbon and then put them in the oven. Once they’ve cooled you can add string and place them on the tree. Another fun idea is to take cheap bulbs and customize them. You can easily make a snowman by dipping the kids’ hands in white paint and having them hold a bulb. You can also buy clear bulbs and fill them with pictures and tinsel for a cute memorial ornament. Paper snowflakes, strung up popcorn and other simple crafts also make a great look for your tree and won’t cost you much at all! If you can’t think of any ideas make sure to look online, there’ll be more than you can imagine to choose from.

5. Barter
When it comes to shopping for a holiday tree bartering can be one of the best ways to cut a pretty amazing deal. Sure, this might not work in your average department store and you probably can’t do this for a fake tree, but if you’re going to a tree lot them put on your best skills and try your hand. A lot of stores will be happy for the change of pace, so you may end up walking off the lot with a great tree at an even better price. As soon as the holiday gets closer you may want to step up your negotiation skills to land a good tree at a price you won’t have to think twice about spending. You may even find this adds a new twist of fun to your holiday that you haven’t had since shopping for a tree with your parents or grandparents.

6. Thrift Stores
When it comes to finding holiday décor for a price that isn’t worth crying over, you should always try your local thrift stores. You might think it’ll be hard to find Christmas items during the season, but this isn’t always the case. In fact, some people decide to go through their holiday items during the season which means they also tend to donate items they’re not going to use then too. So, if you’re looking for an artificial tree or decorations then the thrift store might be your best bet. Generally, you’ll be able to find modern and vintage items here, so keep an eye out because you never know when you’re going to find something worth quite a bit of money. If you do decide to shop for an item like tree lights you might want to try them out before you buy them as spending money on an item that doesn’t work won’t do your budget any favors.

7. Stock Up After Christmas
Although it’s not exactly helpful for this Christmas you can easily stock up on the best products as soon as Christmas is over. On Boxing Day you may want to bundle up in your most comfortable coat and brave the weather and the crowds to get the Christmas tree décor you’ve had your eye on all season. Typically, when the holiday is over everything in the Christmas aisle goes on sale for at least 50% off. This means you snag that beautiful artificial tree you fell in love with that was just beyond your price range a few days prior. It’ll also give you a wide choice of ornaments, garland and lighting for the tree. You may even find the tree topper you’ve been looking to buy for some time. Once you’ve stocked up on the savings leave your purchases in their original packaging and wait for next year. When it’s time to decorate the tree again it will be like a mini Christmas for everyone.

8. Improvise
When it comes to small apartments or dorm rooms, a Christmas tree might not be the wisest choice. It can also be bad if you’re on too tight of a budget. Rather than spending money on a tree that won’t work in your space or isn’t cost efficient you can easily improvise. There’s a lot of ways to do this too, so find what works for your space and go with it. One great way to start is adding a few decorative items to a small house plant. Another great idea is to take to the walls. You can use photos, post it notes, garland, Christmas cards, tissue paper or construction paper to form the shape of a tree. You can even add lights to this to add more of the holiday feel. If you don’t have wall space then you might consider building a small tree. One way to do this is to open up books and stack them on top of one another. Start with larger books on the bottom and work your way up. You can also build a tree using recyclables. Painted green egg crates as well as cereal boxes are some of the more common items to use. There’s lots of other ideas online though so find something to works just for you!

9. Use What You Have
It’s really tempting to go out and buy more decorations every single year. Our interests change as do fashions which makes it a little difficult to stick with the same decorations year after year. However, if you’re on a tight budget this is one of the best things to do. Try to pick decorations that don’t suit a certain theme as you’ll end up getting tired of them before you get your money’s worth. Rather, stick with simple designs that can be altered each year. This will ensure you won’t grow as weary of your Christmas tree goods which will save a lot of money. Most of the time we just want to add something new to the tree, so if you’re feeling sick of your holiday décor then try to add one special new piece a year, rather than keeping all of the decorations you already have in storage.

10. Cut Your Own Tree
A lot of families love to have a real tree and wouldn’t settle for anything less. This is okay if you know just how to save the most money on your holiday experience. Cutting down your own tree is actually a great way to save money, if you know where to shop. A lot of lots will charge a flat fee for your family to go out and pick a tree that will suit the home. With you doing all the work you end up spending less, while also getting to pick a tree that is going to be worth the money. If you choose to use a tree from your own property this could save even more; however, make sure you have the correct permits to do so before you cut down anything. Often you won’t need anything, but some counties to require the proper paperwork.

Shopping for a Christmas tree and decorations should be a lot of fun so don’t let budgets ruin your holiday cheer. With these ten trips you’ll be well on your way to singing carols and enjoying the tradition of hanging up your favorite ornaments and admiring the result of your hard work!

Decorating for the holidays can be a whole lot of fun for the entire family. Whether you’re working on the interior, exterior or both, holiday decorating is a tradition for most homes that like to celebrate the holidays. However, decorating doesn’t always come with a cheap price tag. Some decorations can cost a small fortune which definitely takes away from the holiday budget. You don’t have to stress over spending a lot of money on your decorations though. With these decorating tips you should be able to find a happy balance that allows you to show off your holiday spirit without stretching your budget too far. So, put on your coat, head outside and let the world know just how much you and your family love decorating for this season’s biggest holidays!

1. Hand-Me-Downs
If you’re just starting out then hand-me-downs are probably the easiest way to find decorations without having to spend your entire holiday budget on them. Chances are, someone you know has a lot of decorations they don’t use or are just willing to giveaway. A lot of people tend to buy holiday decorations every year, which means they’ve accumulated quite a few over time. So, don’t be afraid to ask around when you know someone is planning to get rid of some of their decorations. You may be asked to pay a small fee, but a lot of people are just happy to get them out of their storage area. A lot of people begin with their family though, particularly their parents. A lot of the time parents will offer their children decorations they grew up with, which will make the tradition even better. If you already have decorations but are getting tired of them then you may want to see if someone you know wants to swap with you. This will help you freshen up your collection without spending a penny!

2. Make Your Own
The best thing about the holidays is it’s the season to channel your inner DIY guru. Rather than going out and buying a lot of decorations you can spend a fraction of the price and make your own. This works for interior and exterior decorations too, so you can make your entire house look amazing with your fine expertise. One of the easiest things to do is turn your holiday cards into a special display. This will let the love from your friends and family shine. You can also make crafts with items you already have, such as, candy canes, wrapping paper, bows and ribbons. This will really cut down on the cost of crafting supplies while making sure the holiday vibe is apparent in the home. If you’re not sure what to make then look online for ideas. You can spend hours doing this if you’re not careful as there are so many ideas for holiday decorations. You could also watch a show or podcast, which are on frequently during this time of the year. Of course, your imagination may prove to be the best thing to channel when it comes to creating your decor!

3. Price Match
One of the biggest downers during the holidays is falling in love with a decoration and its price then finding out it’s totally sold out. You don’t have to despair on this for long though as many stores now offer price matching. This will allow you to take a sales ad, from a print ad or from the internet, and show it to a store to get the same exact price for the item that was sold out elsewhere. Of course, if you don’t like going from place to place shopping then price match will be your new best friend as you shop for decorations this year. If you find something you like simply do a quick search online to find the best deal. Then, when you check out you can do a price match for the item rather than paying more for it or wasting gas to go to the store with the cheapest price. Make sure the store you’re in does price matching though. Usually a sales clerk or customer service official will let you know, or you can look online before you even go shopping!

4. Go Natural
Instead of spending a lot of money on decor, try to give your home a more natural look for the holidays. One great way to do this is to use pine cones. Usually you can find lots of these outside, so have the kids do a scavenger hunt and bring in their favorites. Of course, you can also buy them cheaply in stores if you don’t have the right kind of trees in your area. With pinecones you can easily make a holiday wreath as well as centerpieces or scented pinecones to make the home smell great while guests are in town. Seasonal fruits also make great decorations for the mantle, or can be turned into a wreath. You may also want to consider bringing in a few thin branches from outside. With a little white glitter, fake snow and some pinecones you’ll have a piece that makes your mantle look outstanding. If you tend to live in an area with lots of snow then a snowman can be the perfect form of decor for outside. Of course, adding a Happy Holidays sign in front of it will make it seem even more festive. However, one of the easiest and most fun ways to use nature as your decor is to decorate an outdoor tree just as you would your Christmas tree! This is perfect for families and will give kids something to look forward to each year.

5. Use What You Have
A lot of the time we have plenty of holiday decor to go around, but often just want to keep up with fashions or the children’s interests. This can be a waste of money and hurts your holiday budget substantially. Instead of going out and buying new stuff you should stick to what you already have. Sure, sometimes you can get sick of the same look over and over, but it’s not a reason to go out and buy an entirely new set of decorations. Instead, try to give the stuff you have a little makeover. You can repaint a lot of your decor to give it new life. Also, adding glitter and other unique things to a piece can transform it entirely. So, get crafty with the items you already have instead of replacing them. After all, you’ve already made lots of memories with the decor you have, so why let it go to waste in your storage area?

6. Skip the Electric Stuff
Sure, we all want to light up the neighbor and have the best decorations, but when you’re on a budget this isn’t always an option. Even if you already own a wide selection of lights, inflatables and other decor that requires electricity these items can really blow your power bill through the roof. Rather than using these try to keep it light when it comes to exterior designs. Signs, wreaths and figures that don’t light up are always a safe bet. You don’t have to have electrical pieces to make your home stand out. In fact these items are beloved in the day, which is when most people will see your house anyway! If you absolutely don’t want to skip out on your bright exhibit then look for solar powered items to help cut down on the bill. These items can be found at a fair price and won’t cost you anything once you walk out of the store with them!

7. Hold Onto the Packaging
When the holidays are over and it’s time to pack up the decor you’ll be glad you saved the original packaging. However, your joy will only magnify when you pull out your holiday ornaments next year and don’t have to spend hours untangling them! Keeping the original packaging can be amazing for preserving your items so you can use them year after year. This alone will save you a whole lot of money during the holidays, which will make your budget flourish. When it comes to stringed lighting, which easily can short out if not stored properly, the original box will help keep the lights working years longer! You also won’t have to see the kids upset that their favorite ornament didn’t make it through the off season due to insecure storage. Saving the packaging also prevents you from having to buy holiday packaging boxes which can be pretty expensive!

8. Shop Thrift/Dollar Stores
If you love adding a new decor item to your collection every year then you may want to shop at thrift stores. These stores will sell you a second hand item that could make your collection even more amazing. Better yet, a lot of thrift stores will also have vintage items that can transform your holiday experience. Dollar stores are also a great option, especially when it comes to interior decorations. You can often get window cling ons at a great price as well as small figurines or wall art! With the prices so low you can afford to go all out on your decor without feeling guilty!

9. Use Coupons
Of course, when it comes to holiday shopping for decorations, nothing will help you out quite like shopping with a coupon. Luckily, there’s a lot of coupons for these items that can be found on the internet as well as sales ads. You may also have some luck finding decor items when there’s a store wide sale, or an open sales code for online purchases. These are usually very easy to find when it comes to crafting stores so you may want to try your luck here first. You may also want to subscribe to your favorite stores email lists in order to receive special member codes that can help you save a whole lot more on your purchases without forcing you to wait for a coupon or sales ad to be released!

10. Clearance
The clearance bin is probably one of the best places to start your holiday decor shopping. A lot of the items that make the bin tend to be from the previous holiday which means they’re not entirely out of fashion or may be from a movie or cartoon that your child still loves. Some of the items that make it into the bin are slightly damaged, but with a little TLC you can have an even better masterpiece at a price you won’t want to cry over. Of course, when it comes to clearance shopping, one of the best things you can do is wait until the holiday is over. This won’t help you for this holiday season; however, the day after the holiday has passed you can easily pick up everything you had your eye on for a mere fraction of the price. If you wait a few weeks the prices may get lower and lower, especially if you’re shopping online. You can wait and shop in the months of August through October to check out some of the clearance holiday buys as they will still be a low price and you’ll have them in time for the holiday season!

Decorating for the holidays should be an entirely merry experience, so don’t let finances change your mind about this bonding experience. With these ten simple steps to back you up during your holiday shopping and decorating you should be able to have lots of fun with your home without sending your budget into the red zone. So, stop stressing about the money aspect of the holidays and enjoy spending the time decorating with the family thanks to your frugal budgeting skills!

Hanukkah is a great time to get together with friends and family and celebrate a defining moment in Jewish history. However, with eight days of celebrating it may seem like a huge stressor for those that are on a budget. With eight days of feasting, games and gifts, the sheer thought of paying for it all may give you the blues. You don’t have to have a pre-holiday melt down though, especially when your finances are concerned. With these ten tips you’ll be able to make your celebration of light even more fun for all your guests without having to put in a small fortune to do so. So, dust off the menorah and call all your family as this holiday will be one of your best yet!

1. DIY Candles
Every Hanukkah you probably search around the home to find candles for your menorah. If there’s none to be found then you brave leaving the home to shop during the busiest time of the year. Although candles tend to not be too expensive, you can really avoid a shopping crisis as well as spending money on the limited in store stock by creating your own candles. This is a great craft for the whole family and will make the kids feel like they’re an even bigger part of the celebration. With a simple DIY candle kit you can go all out with colors, designs and can even make your candles with special waxes if you so choose. The best thing is, when you’re all finished you can wrap up your extra candles to give out as gifts! You can also allow the kids to have their own special menorah without spending any extra money!

2. Only Give to Children
Hanukkah isn’t meant to be about the exchange of presents, so don’t feel obligated to pass out gifts to everyone in your inner circle. Rather, try to just arrange gifts for the children. The adults that attend your celebration will understand as the commercial aspect of Hanukkah didn’t come along until much later. However, it is nice to ensure the kids feel special on this holiday. This doesn’t mean you have to spend a small fortune on the gifts, nor does it mean each of the eight gifts you buy needs to be extraordinary. Instead, put a little thought into it and give the kids something with a deeper meaning. In some circles, giving gifts during Hanukkah may not even be welcomed. If this is the case then provide for your own children before or after your celebration.

3. Modest Gifting
It’s very tempting to go on a spending frenzy in the month of December. With sales in abundance during the giving season it’s totally easy to get swept away in the trend and spend a ton of money on your Hanukkah gifts. The best thing you can do is try to avoid sales you know are going to be too much for you to handle. This will help you make your Hanukkah giving a little more modest. Instead of giving out materialistic items try to keep it simple. Packages of seeds and ecofriendly gifts, like a re-usable water bottle, are a great way to give your children a gift that gives back as well as providing the planet with a gift. You may also want to shop around for items that aren’t as expensive. For instance, school supplies, socks or other items your kids absolutely need are easy gifts that most children need. You could also make DIY gifts to keep your budget even lower. If you don’t want to spread a materialistic message to your kids then consider making a donation to a charity in their name!

4. Chocolate Gelt
Gelt is a big part of the holiday. In fact, gelt was introduced because it gave people the money they needed to buy candles for the holidays, rather than having to go without or forcing someone to borrow. In this day and age candles are fairly cheap and most people have several lying around the house. So, rather than giving out actual money for gelt, you might want to swap to chocolate gelt. You can buy religious inspired gelt at a number of religious stores or you can order it online for fairly cheap. The gelt usually has a variety of symbols on it and comes in a gold foil. When you peel back the gold it reveals delicious chocolate that proves to be an amazing dessert for the special day. You can also use the gelt during games to make it go even further without forcing anyone to use actual money during the eight days of celebration.

5. Potluck Meal
Planning eight days of food for a group of people isn’t just time consuming but can cost you a small fortune. Hosting the party on your own may prove to be one of the most stressful things you’ve ever done, so don’t put that burden on yourself. Rather, when you send out invitations add that the celebration is going to be a potluck. Your guests can RSVP with the dish that they’re making for the event. When everyone shows up to the celebration with food you can feel relieved to be the host. Allowing your celebration to be a potluck can also become a learning experience. Many people know how to cool the traditional recipes very well and others know recipes you may have never had the experience of trying. This will give your family the tradition you’re looking for without forcing you to buy pre-made dishes. If you’re lucky some of your family and friends may show you how to make some of the dishes your family favored, which will make future Hanukkah celebrations easier for you!

6. Make Your Own Decor
Finding Hanukkah decor may actually prove to be time consuming as you have to know just where to go to get what you’re looking for. Thus, this could also mean it isn’t going to be priced fairly either. Rather than spending some of your holiday budget on Hanukkah decorations you might want to just make your own. This is actually a great crafting time for kids and can even be done on the first day of the celebration. Of course, you could also spread out the different crafts to last throughout the eight days which will allow you to decorate little by little. If you have a lot of fun with this then you could make it a holiday tradition which will allow you to add new decorations each year. To begin your crafting you could easily make a Hanukkah table cover with rolled paper or an old sheet. Kids can draw dreidels, menorahs and anything holiday related. They can also write special messages that they’ll be able to look back on over the years. You can also print out pages for the kids to color which will look great hung up around the home. Banners are another cheap and easy craft for the holidays as well as stringing gelt together to form a garland! There’s lots of ideas to create, but if you’re feeling lost look online to see what others have done!

7. Games
Entertainment is one of the most important aspects of the celebration. Sure, the singing, stories and eating are a lot of fun, but you need something else to pass the time. Games are especially important if you have younger children that aren’t quite ready to sit still and listen to the true meaning of the holiday. Dreidel, of course, is one of the most common games to play during Hanukkah. From young children to adults, this pass time will keep everyone busy. However, you may want to cut back on spending by having kids craft their own dreidel before the games begin. You can easily get a print out for this or you can wing it to impress all your young party guests. Of course, a dreidel that is passed down from generation to generation is also a great item to use during your celebration and won’t cost you anything. Instead of using real money during the games you may also want to use the candy gelt. This is a crowd pleaser for the little ones anyway. You may also want to begin transforming common household games into Hanukkah inspired games. For instance, you can play Pictionary using only Jewish words. The ideas are endless, but if you want to plan ahead of time you can easily get some ideas from online.

8. Songs
Singing and having fun with those you love is an important part of holidays. Generally, songs are passed down from generation to generation, but there’s always room for something new or updated to keep the holiday fresh. Rather than spending a lot of money on CDs or sheet music you can easily take to the internet to find everything you need. If you enjoy playing and singing the music yourself then there’s an abundance of free or low cost sheet music that can be found online. This will give you a chance to download everything you need and practice a bit before the holiday arrives. Of course, not every gathering wants to sing traditional songs. If you’re hosting a group that would rather play games, or you’re just having a quick dinner after work then you may want to check online for some background music. There’s an abundance of holiday inspired playlists on many online radios that will make your meal an even bigger treat.

9. Cards
Not everyone chooses to send out cards, but they’re always a welcome treat to those that receive them. If you plan on sending cards you might want to skip out on purchasing them. This can cost a fortune, especially if you order custom cards. Instead, you may want to gather up the kids and have the entire family make custom made cards. This will add a personal touch without costing you too much money. Of course, if you want to save even more money you can find an abundance of free e-cards online. These will brighten everyone on your mailing lists day and will save you plenty of time and money.

10. Shop Sales
When it comes to holidays nothing is going to save your budget quite like a good sale. Luckily, there’s plenty of be found in December so you’ll be in luck with just about anything you may want to shop for. It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for a good deal on food or you can need a cheap gift for someone on your guest list, as sales will eliminate some of the burden of the holiday. Before you go out you may want to do a little pre-shopping online. This will help you get a pretty good idea of where you need to shop. You might also look into stores that do price matching in order to save even more money. Shopping during the holidays can be frustrating because it’s the busy season so you might want to download an app in order to be fast about your shopping decisions. Many shopping apps will direct you to the best stores and some will even allow you to reserve items you absolutely need so it’s guaranteed to be there when you finally get to the store.

Hanukkah is a great holiday for bringing friends and family together, but sometimes finances don’t allow us to always see the brighter side of the holiday. With these ten money saving tips you should be able to enjoy the holiday for its true meaning rather than stressing out about how much you need to spend to make it great. With the budget out of the way you’ll be able to make this year’s 8 days of celebration even more memorable for the entire family.

Although the majority of your holiday budget may go on gifts and holiday food, there’s still a large portion that is blown on items to wrap your gifts. Even though you may not think you’re spending a whole lot of money on gift wrap, after you tally up the purchases you could be shocked at how much of the budget was spend on these items. Rather than going out and buying pricey wrapping accessories, you may find these tips can get your items wrapped up without costing you more than a couple scents a present. With these savings you can use the money to enjoy the holidays even more, or you may even be able to put the money back in order to enjoy a better vacation or larger purchase later on in the year!

1. Buy in Bulk
One of the best things about wrapping gifts is you get to be creative about how the gift looks when you present it to the person you care about. Thus, shopping for different wrapping papers may have become an expensive trend of yours. Rather than buying individual rolls of wrapping paper you may want to buy a bulk package. Most stores carry these and they tend to carry from three to six rolls per package. You can often get these packages for a price that you may pay for one or two rolls of paper, which will definitely help out with your budget. Of course, wrapping isn’t all about the paper. When you buy ribbons and bows you may find they total to a lot of money too. So, try to find larger packages that can carry over until next holiday season. You could also look for packages that come with paper, ribbons, bows and tags at one low price.

2. DIY Wrapping Paper
Of course, you don’t have to settle for spending money on wrapping paper at all. There’s actually a lot of ways you can wrap gifts at home without actually spending a penny on the classic holiday gift wrap. For instance, most homes have old magazines or newspapers laying around the home. Simply use these just as you would regular wrapping paper and you’ll be on your way to a great looking present. You may have to glue some of the magazine pages together, but this won’t take long at all and will create a pretty cool effect on your gifts. If you’re providing a gift for children then pull out the comic section of the newspaper or you can even use cheap comics that no one plans to read around the house. You may want to make sure the comic isn’t rare or worth anything before you do this though! Old maps are also a great option for wrapping paper. If you have an atlas or even an outdated road map then you’re ready to go. You could even add a picture of Santa and his reindeers to make it more holiday inspired. Butcher paper or wrapping paper that isn’t holiday inspired works too. Simply flip the paper over and you’ll be working with a blank canvas. You can draw cute designs here to make the paper even more amazing!

3. Swap to Bags
A lot of people have paper bags in storage from grocery shopping. These are perfect to use for the holiday season. Simply place the item in the bag, close it up and use your craft supplies to add the finishing touches. These bags are easy to draw on and with a little glitter and ribbon they’ll be the most unique holiday present under the tree. You can even allow the kids to decorate gifts they give our so the recipient will feel even more special. If you’re not feeling creative then you can usually buy gift bags at any dollar store or department store for a very low price. These bags look great on their own and won’t require you to add anything special if you’re not feeling creative. However, if you are feeling like artistic these are fun to draw on and add a burst of color to your gift. If you have more than one gift for someone then you may want to find a bag big enough to fit all the gifts in one, which will help cut down on wrapping costs substantially.

4. Print Out Tags
Adding tags to cards helps you determine which gift goes to who, but these items, especially the really creative tags, can be pretty expensive when you pick them up from the store. Rather than throwing away money on these items you can simply log onto the internet and print some out. You’d be amazed as to how many websites are dedicated to providing people with adorable gift tags. The best thing is, they’re totally free in most cases. If you can’t find any tags that you absolutely like then you can always print off tags that you create yourself. These can made in any photo or word program so you won’t need to spend any money on this! If you’re not totally satisfied with the print outs then try to add some glitter highlights to them in order to make them more festive.

5. Recycled Goods
You may not have considered shuffling through your recyclable for materials for wrapping, however, these goods are some of the best items to use! For instance, most households probably have some old shoe boxes just collecting dust around the home. These are perfect for items that don’t already come in a box and will make wrapping more difficult items a whole lot easier. You can also use boxes from parcels you’ve recently received in the mail. This cuts down on how much you need to put in your recycling bin and also prevents you from having to purchase boxes to wrap. Another great option is to use oatmeal containers on items that might be a bit odd to wrap. This will help eliminate you from wasting wrapping paper and will ensure no one will be able to guess what you got them! Baby food and mason jars are also a great wrapping material, especially if you’re wrapping multiple items or if you’re trying to disguise an item. Finally, you can use shredded paper to help keep fragile items safe, or to act as a filler in boxes that hold smaller items.

6. Re-Use Supplies
When it comes to saving money on your holiday wrapping one of the best tricks to use is recycling. A lot of the time we’re left with ample paper on the roll that can get thrown out or damaged during the off season. Instead of letting it go to waste, put it away with your holiday supplies and use it the next year. If you wrap it in plastic, then there’s a good chance it won’t get ruined in the off season. If you’re mostly wrapping for an older crowd during the holidays then you may want to have them save wrapping paper from their gifts. Usually, if you open carefully you won’t have to throw the paper away. You can also do this with bags that you use. These are a bit easier to save and can actually last quite a long time. Finally, you can also cut ribbons and bows off of presents and use them again next year. With all of the reusable supplies in storage you shouldn’t have to do a whole lot of shopping when the season rolls around next year.

7. Free Gift Wrapping
When you do your holiday shopping you may run into stores that will offer free wrapping when you spend a certain amount of money in their store. This can be a great way to avoid buying too many wrapping supplies and will even save you some time in the process. Before you go shopping make sure you look into the store’s special deals. This will ensure you know how much you should spend in the store to receive the holiday special. If you can, do your shopping at locations that do this as you won’t have to spend time and money wrapping or worrying about the family seeing their gifts before you get a chance to wrap them. Of course, if the items aren’t reasonably priced then you might want to skip out on this and find another location that offers free gift wrapping.

8. Shop Discount Stores
If you’re looking for cheap wrapping paper then one of the best places to shop is discount stores. These stores tend to have a pretty good selection of products for a dollar or less. This can be great for your budget, especially if you don’t need a lot of supplies for this season. Of course, you should always check out the quality of the supplies as they may not be worth the money. You should always check out the amount of product you’re getting for the money too as sometimes stores will try to only give you a little bit for the price. If this is the case then try to find a better deal as you won’t be getting your money’s worth despite the low price. However, if you’re in a rush or need some last minute supplies then these cheap items may help you avoid lines as well as expensive prices.

9. Shop After the Holidays
One of the best things you can do when it comes to shopping for wrapping paper is look after the holidays. Most of the supplies will go straight to the clearance bin which means you’ll be able to get them for a fraction of the price. The best thing is, they’ll still be in their original packaging so it’ll be much easier for you to store them without them getting damaged. This will prevent you from having to pay for the expensive paper next year and will ensure you’ll be ready to handle all of your holiday wrapping needs as soon as you finish up with your shopping excursions.

10. Skip Accessories
Many of us tend to go a little over board when wrapping paper is concerned. Although shopping is fun, adding those special touches to your gifts make the holiday season what it is. That being said, all of those little accessories we add to the gifts cost money, which isn’t exactly a good thing when you’re on a budget. Rather than spending money for ribbons, bows and the rest of the special touches you can skip them all together and the gift will still look good. Try just using wrapping paper one year and see how you feel about the look. If you’re okay with the package being a little plain then there is no reason to go all out on supplies that you don’t really need. If you’re not okay with it then consider making accessories out of scrapped wrapping paper. This will add a cute touch that doesn’t cost any extra.

Wrapping gifts can be a whole lot of fun, but it doesn’t have to mean you need to spend a lot of money on this aspect of the holidays. Rather than going overboard on wrapping supplies you should put the money back for other holiday items. After all, when you give the gift, the paper is going to come flying off in a matter of seconds! So, don’t sweat it if your present doesn’t look like it belongs in a magazine spread!

The holidays are a time when it’s hard not to buy your children all the gifts you believe they deserve. Of course, thinking like this can get you into a lot of trouble with your bank account. There are ways to make your child’s dreams come true without spending a small fortune though. With a few simple techniques your kids can enjoy their special visit from Ole Saint Nick without forcing you to spend hours in long lines only to pay for toys that are incredibly over-priced. Sometimes, not being able to get what you want can be disappointing, but when you look at holiday giving from a new perspective you may find you have a lot more fun shopping with these tips than you ever did when you were simply following the crowd! So, let the holiday spirit fill you and enjoy watching your kids unwrap their less expensive gifts this holiday season!

1. Shop Clearance
Most of the time when it comes to shopping for kids we tend to hit the toy aisle without thinking of any alternatives. A lot of the time this leads to over spending on items that the kids are going to be bored with after a couple months of use. Instead of shopping in this section try to hit up the clearance bin before you make your final decisions. Usually, these bins are filled with toys that will still make your child’s face light up. Better yet, they’re a fraction of the price of those items that still remain on the shelf. You don’t have to feel like you’re settling when you shop this way either. Generally, a lot of popular toys make it to the bin because other movies or TV shows are released and stores want to move items that aren’t as fresh out of stock. You don’t have to simply stick to local or chain stores when it comes to clearance bin shopping either. Try looking online for items that your child will love, this is especially great if kids like a certain brands of toy as it’ll make it much easier to find something your child will adore.

2. Skip the “IT” toy
Every year a toy hits the market that every household seems to need. These toys are usually highly advertised and tend to be a bit on the expensive side of things. Although your child may follow suit and beg and plead for this item, it isn’t a necessity for it to be under the tree. In fact, when your children unwrap the presents you chose based on their personality and interests, you may find they’ll forget all about the “IT” gift that Santa Claus didn’t leave behind. When it comes to gifts like this it may take a whole lot of money to even reserve the item, so don’t stress over trends at all. Even if your child is a bit disappointed it’s pretty much a guarantee that he or she will have forgotten about the item a month or two after the holiday anyway. If not, it’ll always be cheaper to purchase at a later date!

3. Go Generic
When it comes to shopping for toys, we often don’t think about generic brands. There are, in fact, many toy companies that make items similar to the big brands but sell them at a much lower price. If you’re looking to save big this holiday season then purchasing an off brand item or two can help you keep under budget. Generally, you can find these generic brands with building blocks, dolls and toy cars. Sometimes, even electronic toys will have an off brand to choose from. If you’re not certain what you should be looking for then do a little research online or talk to a sales associate in the area. However, just like shopping for groceries, the off brand toys are usually found on the lower shelves where you may not look right away.

4. Discount Rewards
If you do a lot of shopping then chances are you have some discount cards in your wallet or purse. These are amazing when the holiday season rolls around, especially if you’ve saved up your points during the year. Discount reward cards can be acquired from a number of stores, so don’t be afraid to think out of the box when it comes to shopping this season. For instance, if you have an awards card with lots of points on it from a store like JC Penny or Sears, which mostly caters to clothes, you can easily find the small section of toys which usually has some pretty good choices. Of course, stores that cater to toys are going to be your best bet so make sure you tally up your rewards and use them as a major discount for your holiday purchases. You may also want to plan shopping around the amount of points you have as it might be worth wild to use the greater discount points on items that are more expensive opposed to cheaper purchases you’ll need to make.

5. Shop Early
Many people don’t begin their holiday shopping until after Thanksgiving when all of the Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals begin to pop up. This can be a great time to shop, but don’t be afraid go out to buy gifts before this. Typically, toys are at their cheapest in November before the sales begin so look around and see what you can find before the rush begins. This can really help out if you’re shopping for popular toys that may not stay in stock during the holiday rush. You can also shop even earlier, especially if you have a good idea of what you want to purchase for the holidays anyway. Stocking stuffers and other items can be purchased throughout the year which will limit the burden and money spending when you need to buy more expensive items. You may also want to pick out items and put them on layaway well before the holiday season begins. This is especially important when you see a pricey item that is on sale!

6. Buy Used
When it comes to the big ticket items you don’t have to spend a fortune on brand new toys. In fact, some of the items are just as good when they’re used. This is especially true for items like bikes or trampolines. Generally, these purchases can cost you hundreds of dollars, but if you find a good buy online or at a yard sale you should jump on it. Kids won’t care that these items are used and they’ll get worn down or replaced after time anyway. This doesn’t mean you should pick up the first item you see at a low price though. Make sure you investigate to make sure it’s safe and doesn’t look like it’s in terrible shape. It’s okay to replace some nuts and bolts in items and adding a new chain, brakes or tires to a bike won’t set you back too much, but if the item doesn’t look safe then move on to your next choice!

7. DIY!
Not everything has to be bought in a store to make your children happy. In fact, there’s a lot of items you can make yourself that will give them hours of fun. One great gift for younger children is homemade play dough. There’s lot of recipes online for this and you can even spice it up by adding special colors, scents or creating a cute packaging for storage. You may also want to consider making your own building blocks which can be created to suit your child’s personality. If your kids are into LEGOS then buy a bulk box and then split them up into sets. You can put a picture of what the set can build on the front to entice your child’s imagination. Crafts sets are also great for kids that love art. These can be as simple as paints and paintbrushes in a personalized box, or special strings for friendship bracelets. If you’re feeling really ambitious then you may want to build a dollhouse, or playhouse outside! Just make sure it’s easy to assemble on the night before the big day!

8. Sell Old Toys
Although your kids might not be crazy about the idea, you can use the holidays as an excuse to move out some of the old toys that have been collecting dust in their toy boxes. Once you’ve gone through the old toys, auction them off online or start a yard sale. The money you earn from the old toys can be used to buy new ones for the kids. Plus, you’ll have a lot more space in the home without the old stuff cluttering up their rooms. If the kids aren’t on board with the idea then try to go through the items and get rid of the stuff that isn’t age appropriate anymore. There’s a lot of toys you may be keeping in your attic that aren’t getting any use. Remember, if you sell the toys at a low price you’ll not only be helping your kids get new stuff, but you might help a family in need afford some gifts for their children.

9. Skip Electronics
A lot of kids today tend to ask for expensive electronic devices during the holiday. This can be a huge burden on your budget and you may not be able to afford anything else if you do choose to purchase them. Instead of buying the electronics, you may want to consider skipping them this year. Most children get to spend a lot of time with electronics at school, so why not encourage their imagination to grow with toys that don’t require charging. For generations kids have played with dolls, cars, blocks and other items that encourage brain stimulation, so why stop with this generation? These toys usually won’t cost you an arm and a leg and will teach your kids to slow down and enjoy play time rather than having their toys meet their need for instant gratification. You’ll be pleased to see them having fun and your budget won’t be blown for the season!

10. Holiday Sales
Holiday sales can be one of the best ways to get the items you need at a fabulous price. When the holiday season kicks off there is usually a lot of flash sales that can come in handy when ordering your gifts. You may want to start your mission locally, as this will help avoid shipping prices. Make sure you’re subscribed to your favorite stores mailing list and that you get local sales ads. This will help you make a game plan to get what you need while it’s at a low price. You should also check online for these sales. Many big name stores as well as small stores will actually hold small sales for specific items. Log in to your favorite sites when you can to see if a deal is going to be up your alley. Some stores will even let you know ahead of time what the flash sale will be so you can be prepared to jump on it. Sometimes you have to be fast though as often they will only offer a select amount of items for the low price.

Holiday shopping for your kids’ toys doesn’t have to be bring you down. With these ten tips you should be able to find a collection of items that will help you fill your tree and create smiles on your children’s faces. With a little careful planning and some thinking out of the box you may find your kids will be happier this year than years where you followed the shopping trends!

Tis the season for stretching the budget and finding the perfect gift for those dear to you. Holiday shopping can be a time of joy, but for most of us it means long lines, balancing the check book carefully and trying to maintain some peace while you search for this year’s it gift at a price that won’t leave your bank account depleted. There’s a few ways to avoid getting too stressed out over the holidays though, especially when it comes to the money aspect of the season. With these ten tips you’ll be able to get a little more out of your shopping experience for less money than you’d expect to spend. So, tie your shoes, grab your list and get ready for the best holiday shopping experience yet!

1. Shop Early
A lot of people tend to wait until after Thanksgiving to shop. Although there’s a whole lot of deals during this period it may actually save you money to shop even earlier than this. Sure, no one wants to think about the gift giving holidays this early, but you can really save a lot of money by shopping year round for your items. For instance, if you like to give out holiday décor as gifts to acquaintances and colleagues then buy a lot of clearance items when the holiday is over. You can keep them in a safe place and when the time comes you’ve already knocked out several gifts. A lot of the time we find items throughout the year that seem perfect for someone special to us. So, instead of putting off the item until the holidays go ahead and grab it, especially if it’s a good price. This will be one less thing you’ll need to buy when you’re already over stretching your budget!

2. Look for Rebates
Many of us love to reap the benefits of the big ticket sales around the holiday season. There’s nothing wrong with this, especially if you know you can’t find a better deal any other time of the year. However, you can easily maximize your savings by looking for the sales that also include rebates. Rebates allow you to fill out some information and mail it in to the company that produces or sells the item. When they file your information and see your proof of purchase they send back a check with the amount the rebate was for. This is a lot like a second Christmas, especially if you’re recovering from holiday shopping expenses. Many people don’t fill out rebates though, so make sure you actually take the time to do them. It may be boring but you won’t regret spending the time on it when you get your money back. If you have questions about your rebate you can always call the company or ask the salesmen!

3. Know When to Shop
Shopping for a specific item can be tricky, but if you’re looking to save the most money possible on the item it helps to know when the right time to shop for it is. Different items have different seasons, but luckily the holiday season gives us an abundance of sales items to choose from. For instance, if you’re looking for electronics, toys or kitchen gadgets then you should hit the market in November. These items are usually on sale for a better price and make great gifts for most people in your inner circle. In December you can find items like computers, cookware, golfing supplies, tools and pools. These items are usually on the Santa list which means you’re already ahead of the game. So, instead of shopping for everything at once try to find out when your category is going to be on sale. There’s a lot of websites dedicated to this information, so you won’t have to do a lot of research to find out when you need to buy the specifics!

4. Reward Cards
Most stores, especially chains, will offer rewards cards to their customers. Most of the time these cards are totally free to apply for and don’t really require any effort from the customer. So, why not sign up? A lot of us have many of these cards sitting around in our wallet or purse, so don’t forget to pull them out and use them while you’re holiday shopping. Typically, these cards will keep track of a number of points you earn with every purchase. When you earn a specific amount you get a discount, gift or sample. Other cards will actually take a small percentage off of each purchase so you end up spending less in the long run. Either way, you’ll get a little more for your buck when you use the card, which is never a bad thing. So, don’t forget to swipe your card or sign up for a card when you’re checking out with your holiday loot!

5. Make A list
There’s a pretty good reason why Santa Claus makes a list and checks it twice, so follow the jolly man’s example! A lot of the time when we’re shopping we have a tendency to grab things spontaneously thinking they’re perfect for someone. This leads to over spending in most cases which doesn’t do you any favors when you’re trying to keep on a holiday budget. So, instead of just going wild in a store try to stick to a list. Before you head out, sit down and think of all of the people you need to shop for. Once you have everyone’s name down try to match them with a specific gift. This may take some time, but you’ll be thankful you did it when you see the holiday crowds. When you’re in the store look at the list as if it were a grocery list. This will help you get in and out without forgetting things! It also helps to follow the rule “if it’s not on the list I’m not buying it!”, which can save you a bundle on items you don’t necessarily need.

6. DIY Gifts
Rather than buying everything you give this season, you may want to consider making your own DIY gifts for some, if not all, of the people on your list. There’s an abundance of DIY gifts you can choose from, which will always hold a special place in the heart of the person you decide to share your craftsmanship with. For instance, you can put together a special scrapbook for a close family member, such as a grandparent. These gifts usually bring joy to their holiday and gives them something special to look at throughout the year. If you have someone that loves to cook or bake then create a cute DIY cooking kit. Simply add the ingredients to a decorative jar and you’re ready to wrap and present the gift. You can also make something special by sewing or knitting for someone you love. If the kids want to help you may consider making holiday ornaments for friends and family. Of course, making your own creative holiday cards are also a must for the season. The ideas are endless, but if you’re having trouble thinking of something to make you may want to browse the internet for inspiration.

7. Sales/Clearance
One of the best things you can do during your holiday shopping is find items that are on sale or in the clearance section. Luckily, there’s usually an abundance of sales during the holiday season so your job will be even easier. Of course, when it comes to sales you should always do a bit of research to decide which are going to save you the most amout of money. A lot of sales only take off a small portion of the price and some may simply lower their price to match another store’s. Clearance items are even better because they’re already marked down quite a bit. You may not have as much to choose from here, but if you go to a lot of stores you should be able to find a little something for most people. If you’re lucky you may even find a sale that takes off a percentage of clearance items too, which will save you even more!

8. Research
While you’re shopping you don’t have to purchase the first item you see from your list. Instead, try downloading a few apps and scan the item to see where you can find it for the best possible price. This will help you get the best deal in your area (or online) without having to go from store to store. You may even consider looking up the items you need before you even go out. A lot of the time you’ll be able to mark down the cheapest locations so you can maximize your time and your money. Some websites and apps will even allow you to reserve an item which is perfect for those products that seem to fly off the shelf! After you research your shopping list you’ll feel a little more confident about your holiday shopping abilities and you may even end up finishing your shopping faster than you thought possible!

9. Free Shipping
You may find that a lot of your best deals are found online. This can be great, until you factor in the price for shipping. Luckily, during the holidays a lot of companies will actually give you free shipping if you spend a certain amount of money. So, before you go out and buy everything you need make sure to calculate how much you’ll save if you can get free shipping on a few of the gifts. Sometimes, online stores will actually offer free shipping just because of the season. It may be wise to check out these stores first so you won’t have to spend a ton paying to get your holiday items to you. However, you should make sure the items aren’t overpriced to make up for this discount. Also, if you have a membership with certain stores you may be able to get your shipping upgraded and free which will help out with your expenses even more!

10. Stick with Cash
Holiday shopping can be very tempting, especially when you see items you know you want or, worse yet, you know the kids would love. If you’re caught in a weak moment you may be tempted to toss the item in the cart without regard for your budget. One way to stop this from happening is to leave the debit and credit card at home. Yes, this means actually bringing cash with you. So, before you go out to shop make a list of the items you need, how much they cost and how much you have budgeted for gifts. Then, according to this budget, pull out the cash you need for the items. With only cash as a form of payment you’ll have to actually stick to the budget without allowing yourself to stray. If you pick up anything extra you’ll have to put something back, which will force you to stop and think about what’s going in your cart. With temptation out of the way, going over your budget will be near impossible which means you won’t have to worry about making up for a mistake later on!

The holidays are filled with stressors that can force you to go way overboard when it comes to shopping. There’s a lot of ways you can find some peace with the shopping experience though. With these ten tips you should be able to get in and out of the store without having to go on a ramen diet for the rest of the year. So, bundle up and enjoy this special time of the year without having to sacrifice your budget on the colorful boxes beneath your holiday tree.

Winter is officially here in just a few weeks, but many of us have already had our first encounter with Jack Frost. Although this season may be beautiful and filled with holidays that bring us warmth, it shouldn’t be overlooked for its ability to cause damage around the home. Snow can be pretty harsh on your possessions and landscape if you don’t take the proper precautions before the season hits you full force. Although you may believe these cautionary steps to be pricey, there’s ways around the huge bills that will help prevent even bigger bills in the future. So, check out these ten tips to see if there’s any way you can save money on preventing and dealing with the snow and ice this winter.

1. Keep Your Lawn Mowed
Sure, everyone looks forward to when the weather cools and the grass seems to stop growing. Although it’s nice to get a break from mowing the lawn, you may want to go ahead and give it one last mow before the big freeze hits you. Although your grass may be dormant, long grass under the snow can bring you a lot of problems as winter transforms into spring. With all of the moisture on the ground, there’s a pretty good chance your grass could develop mold. This isn’t just bad for the grass, but can be bad for you too. Mold can irritate allergies within the household and could even cause illness. It also draws in pests which is another time consuming and expensive problem to get rid of. So, keep your grass short so you don’t have to worry about replanting, fumigating or fighting off sneezes as the seasons change.

2. Clean the Gutters
Although it’s pretty easy to overlook the gutters before winter hits, this chore should always be on your must do list before winter officially sets in. Cleaning gutters is pretty boring and, let’s face it, hard work. Don’t put if off though because it could lead to come major problems as the season progresses. For starters, you don’t want the stuff in your gutters to freeze. As the snow begins to pile onto of the already dirty gutters it will begin to weight them down which could cause your gutters to break or fall. On top of being too heavy, you’re going to want the snow on your roof to melt in order to relieve pressure off the roof. If the gutters are full then the water isn’t going to be able to move as quickly off of the home. It can also drip onto your stairway, porch or sidewalk which is dangerous for anyone that doesn’t realize how slippery the area is.

3. Be Eco Friendly
Getting ice off of your sidewalk and driveways can be frustrating, but it can also be damaging to your plant life. When you use salts, litters and de-ice materials on the sidewalk these components melt into your yard and cause damage to your plant life. When spring comes around you could be looking at a whole new project that might put you in the hole with money. Instead of using these items to get rid of the problem try using items that won’t harm the environment. For instance, you can easily use birdseed or sand to help you gain traction in these areas. Plain shoveling is also one of the best ways to get rid of snow and ice around the home. You may also want to check online for homemade remedies that help melt ice away. Usually these items can be found around the home which will save you even more money!

4. Roof Inspection
Your roof is the key component to keeping your family warm and dry during the winter months, so it’s up to you to make sure it’s in the best condition for the season. Before the storms set in make sure your roof is inspected. You can probably get a good deal on this service locally, but if you’re looking to maximize savings you can also do it yourself. Simply check out the roof and make sure all of the shingles are firmly in place. This will help prevent leaks and will also hold up better to heavy snow that may end up spending a day or two on the roof. If everything is in order then you’re set to go for the season, if not then you should be able to fix the loose shingles yourself at a fair price. During the winter you may want to check the roof periodically to ensure wind hasn’t messed with the shingles. You should also do routine checks for heavy snow that may need to be raked off of the roof to prevent damage.

5. Remove Snow
Although it’s pretty cold outside, one of the best ways you can avoid expensive damage to the home is to get outside and remove snow as much as possible. Keeping your sidewalks and driveway snow free will help make the home safer and will also make it easier for you leave for work in the mornings. You should remember to remove snow from the roof whenever possible. You can buy a special rake for this task, but sometimes a regular rake will do the trick. This will avoid leaks and potential cave ins during the winter months. Of course, one of the most important things to do is keep snow away from the foundation of the home. Many people forget all about this but it can become a pricey problem. As the snow begins to melt, the large piles surrounding your home have to go somewhere. Often, this means the water is going to flow into your basement or around your foundation, thus causing flooding and potential rotting. So, avoid this scenario altogether by pushing the snow away whenever you can.

6. Prune
Plants don’t often have an easy time when it comes to the winter months. Instead of just leaving them alone before the ice hits you may want to do a little pruning to help with the transition. Often, bushes have a hard time bearing the cold and thus end up getting sick or frostbitten which makes it harder for them to grow in the spring. Some bushes don’t have a problem surviving the cold but may end up becoming a home to animals you might not want living near your children. By cutting down the access on these plants you’ll be able to avoid both problems. One of the bigger issuess with not pruning has to do with trees though. When it snows or freezes over a lot of tree branches can’t handle the weight, thus forcing them to break off. Unfortunately, the beaks can damage the roof, cars, power lines and may even put the family in danger. So, make sure to trim down weaker branches so you don’t have to worry about major damage throughout the icy months.

7. Pools
Having your own pool can be amazing, but if you don’t know how to take care of it during the winter you may be in for a big nightmare. Pools that are in the ground tend to be a lot easier to care for, but above ground pools can be severely damaged by the change in weather. You will want to get a winter pool cover no matter what kind of pool you have though. This will help keep the pool safer and will prevent anyone from getting in the pool water when it’s freezing cold. If you do have an above ground pool then you need to be sure to remove some of the water from the pool. A full pool can mean the foundation will snap, thus leaving your pool unusable when it is warm enough to swim. Before a storm hits make sure your water levels are much lower than they would normally be. However, if your pool is already frozen then leave it be as anything you do could make it worse. The only time it is safe to touch a frozen pool is when there is a fresh coat of snow on top of it, but you should do this with the utmost care.

8. Insulate the Attic
Believe it or not, but your attic’s insulation makes a huge difference as to how your home is going to deal with the snow outside. In fact, a well-insulated attic actually helps melt the snow on your roof so you won’t have to worry about it caving in. This is because the attic pushes heat onto the roof, which helps get rid of the unwanted snow and ice much faster. The attic will also keep the home warmer which is a lot better for your power bills. If you’ve noticed your home isn’t staying warm and the snow on your roof is pretty much staying put then it may be time to investigate your attic. If it turns out the attic’s insulation is sub-par then there’s a lot of ways you can fix the problem without spending a fortune. Simply look online for some home solutions and you’ll be set until you can get the money together to properly insulate the attic. Typically in the summer months this is a lot cheaper, so your home remedy should help you save even more money.

9. Cars
Fighting with your car first thing in the morning can be one of the worst aspects of winter. Scraping ice from the window shield is never anyone’s idea of a good way to start the day and may even cause some damage to the windows or your paint job if you’re not careful. Instead of attacking the car with a scraper and wasting money on anti-ice products you may want to try a few other ways to get rid of the ice. For starters, you can go out a bit early and turn on the car. Run the heater and defogger at full blast with all the doors and windows shut. This can easily be worked into your routine, or you can do it while you’re shoveling snow away from your tires. After a few minutes you should be able to wipe the snow and ice off of your windows so you can leave for work without any extra scraping. Another way to avoid this struggle is to place an old sheet over your window shield. When you go out in the morning simply lift the sheet and the ice and snow will come off with it.

10. Insurance Policy
One of the most important things you can do before winter rolls around is to check your insurance policy. You want to make sure your home is covered for leaks, cave ins, accidents that may happen in the snow and other snow related problems. A lot of companies won’t include this in their package so it is always better to be safe than sorry. You may also want to make sure you’ve followed all the requirements of your insurance company. This will allow you to put in a claim with necessary proof that you did everything to avoid the problem. Thus, your insurance company will have no reason but to provide you with the money for your claim. You may also want to make sure your car is covered properly and you have road side assistance for these dangerously cold months.

Winter time doesn’t have to be your enemy if you find yourself prepared for its bitter cold. With these tips you should be able to prevent damage without having to spend a small fortune. Now, you can bundle up and enjoy snow ball fights and other winter activities without having to worry about all of the problems that winter brings along with it.

Chances are the Arctic Blast has brought a little snow in your general direction. If not, then winter is on its way and may bring a few snow days for your kids to enjoy. The only problem with snow days is it sometimes seems very expensive to entertain kids during these days off school. From extra meals to keeping them busy, there’s a long list of things that may have you hesitant about the extra days off. However, with a few simple ideas you can turn a snow day into magic without having to spend any extra money. So, as the snow flurries begin get ready to enjoy some time as a family rather than stressing out over the extra costs that may incur!

1. Snowman Competition
As the snow begins to collect outside you might want to start thinking about the snowman you’ll want to create because a snowman competition is one of the best ways to keep your kids busy while they’re off school! Simply gather up old clothes and other items you’d like to use on your snowman and get busy planning. You can even split up into teams to make the competition even more fun (and fair for the little ones). There’s no limit to the creativity you can explore when you make your snowman so have a lot of fun with it. You can also break away from the mold and create some fun animal designs that will have the kids impressed. Of course, you don’t even have to make it a competition if you don’t want to, but this just adds an extra twist to the seasonal favorite. If you do, then present the winner with a special treat, like extra whipped cream on their hot cocoa!

2. Snow Paintings
If you have some empty sports bottles lying around the house then you’re ready for a good time. Fill the bottles up with water and then add some coolaid mix or food coloring to each one. You may want to add a label for each color too, so no one gets mixed up! Once your mix is ready to go then head outside and let your kids enjoy the blank canvas that is your backyard! Kids will love adding color to the snow and will be entertained for hours. When they’re finished make sure to take a picture of their masterpiece so you can add it to a memory book or scrap book. If the kids get tired of painting then turn the colored water into a game for them. You can easily make a hopscotch for them to jump on, or you can create a tic-tac-toe board for each to play on. This will add even more fun to the snow day.

3. Snowball Fight
When in doubt, a snowball fight is a great way to get the whole family outside to enjoy the snow. There’s a lot of different ways you can go about a snowball fight, so you don’t have to stick to the same game every time you play. You may even have the kids take turns creating fresh snowballs to play with. This will help provide breaks so you won’t have the kids getting bored. If you’re out of ideas to freshen up the game then look online for some ideas. A lot of families have created some incredible rules that make the game twice as fun! If you don’t want to constantly have a snowball fight, or if the kids don’t like it, then bring out a target and have the kids throw snowballs at it. It’s definitely a great way to get out some of their extra energy.

4. Nature Walk
The world looks different when it’s covered in snow, so let the kids take a closer look. Bundle everyone up and go for a nature walk to see just how beautiful everything is. You can even create a scavenger hunt list that will make kids even more excited about their walk. Make sure you take trails you know so you don’t end up in icy areas that may cause someone to fall. Snowy days are also a great time to spot wildlife so you might want to bring some binoculars. Kids will love spotting various animals and birds, so bring along a guide book if you have one! You could even have them photograph what they see or draw it when they come home.

5. Sports
Playing your favorite games can really change things up when you’re in the snow! The snow can act as a cushion for those that fall and may even make it more fun thanks to the slippery ground. You can also get creative with your games too by drawing out your own soccer or football field. Of course, you don’t have to stick to the typical games either. You can also come up with your own or look online at other people’s ideas. With the games going your whole family will stay warmer while having a lot of fun that they’ll be proud to tell their friends about when school starts up. These games will also help the kids get exercise rather than being cooped up in the house until the weather gets better.

6. Tubing
Looking for a bit of an adrenaline rush? Then tubing is just what you need to make your afternoon in the snow amazing. Pull out your pool toys and you’ll be prepared for a day of slipping and sliding near your biggest hills. There’s a lot of great ways to enjoy tubing on a snowy days and luckily none of them require any money. Rather than standing in line at a business try to locate your own hill to slide down as this will keep the fun free. You’ll be best off if you have a friend or family member that has one on their own property. Then, take a toy you already own for a ride. You can also use the tops of trash cans, tires or any other items you find around the house that will make your time tubing a blast. Of course, if you already own a sled then use that! There’s no need to go out and buy items to use though, if there’s absolutely nothing you can use around the house then ask a friend or family member to borrow something. You won’t want to miss out on this activity because of lack of supplies!

7. Snack Time
Although it’s usually comforting to have something warm in your belly during cold weather, snow days can be an exception to the rule. This is especially when the snow is fresh. This is when you’ll be able to make the tastiest snow treats. One of the most common snacks to make during this time is snow-cones. It doesn’t take a lot of ingredients and will make your kids happy. Simply have the kids scoop up some fresh snow and add flavor to it. You can use just about anything you have around the house including fruit juice, coolaid or even pickle juice. Another great snack to make is snow ice cream. This special treat will allow you to create a different recipe for each child and it won’t be as unhealthy as them eating plain ice cream. You can look up a lot of free recipes online!

8. Ice Gems
The first sight of snow could be a great time to get a little craftsy with the kids. One amazing and totally simple craft to check out is the ice gem. The only thing you need for this project is some water balloons (although regular balloons work just as well) and food coloring. Add three to four drops of food coloring to each balloon. The color is totally up to each person, so you can create a rainbow if you want. Slowly fill the balloons up with the coldest possible water and then tie them off like you would a regular balloon. When they’re ready gently take them outside and place them on the ground. It’s best to place them in the yard just in case they leak. You want to also make sure they’re as flat as possible though. Wait at least two days to give the water inside the balloon a chance to freeze and then cut the balloon away from the ice. You’ll have a colorful decoration that can be shown off until the temperature drops!

9. Photoshoot
With the snow coming a little early this year you may want to go ahead and have a mini photo shoot to get the pictures you want for holiday cards. You can easily set up a timer on your camera to get the best shot for the card, or you can have a friend or neighbor capture it for you. You could also grab some images of the kids playing which make perfect ideas for scrapbooking and memory books later on. Everyone will love looking back at the awesome time they had and your relatives will love looking at the pictures too! You should also grab some photos of the beauty of the season. The snow, icicles and serene nature of the outdoors only comes once a year, so don’t miss out!

10. Snow Shoveling Challenge
Nothing will make your team get busy on chores quite like a challenge! Sure, snow shoveling is a pretty boring chore and most people try to get around it as much as possible. However, when you turn it into a game all bets are on! There’s a lot of different ways you can get the game rolling so you may want to try out a few over the winter months. You might want to start out with the whole family shoveling together. Whomever has the largest pile of snow can become the winner. Or, you could separate the area into different sections and allow the person who shoveled the fastest to win. You could also take turns doing it each day and see who has the fastest time. Of course, with this way you’ll have to monitor snow levels to make it fair. You can come up with so many other ways too, but the point is you and the family will get to have some fun while getting the chores finished!

Snow days are a huge part of the memories of kids, so don’t let finances get in the way of having some fun. This year, let the kids enjoy playing and have some fun with them too! With these easy to follow tips your family will have a new love for snow days, which will ensure you’ll have positive memories of the happy days!

Thanksgiving is the time of year to sit down with friends and family and rejoice over the blessing we’ve been given. However, for many families the holiday tends to be more stressful than thankful. The thought of having to make an entire feast can be a little intimidating. Of course, if you’re battling a tight budget it can be even worse. There are a few ways you can get around this problem though. Remember, your Thanksgiving meal doesn’t have to cost you a small fortune. With a few easy shopping and cooking techniques you’ll be getting compliments on your meal while saving a whole lot of cash. So, stop stressing out over how you’re going to fund your meal and check out these ten ways to make it cheaper than you can imagine.

1. Use What You Have
When it comes to getting what you need for your holiday meal the grocery store can be your worst nightmare. With the aisles packed with people trying to get everything they need it may be hard to price the items you need as well as weigh your options. Instead of going to the grocery store first you should do a little shopping in your own home. There’s a lot of items you can base an entire meal around that you’ll find collecting dust in your pantry. Most home’s already have a collection of canned vegetables, so spice up these items to make them suitable for the holidays. You should also do a little shopping in your freezer or deep freeze. Sometimes, we tend to forget what’s lingering in there so you may find pie filling, meats, breads or veggies that can fit into your meal plan. You should also check out your dry ingredients for flour, rice, yeast and other items that can be used. These items can start some great side dishes as well as help you make gravy or homemade bread.

2. Buy Early
A lot of people will wait for Thanksgiving sales before they begin their shopping. These sales can be very misleading and often won’t save you much at all. Instead of waiting for deals to come to you, try to seek them out. Remember, canned goods and many frozen items can be stored for quite some time, so you’re free to shop months in advance. Try to buy a lot of your canned items during case lot sales or in bulk as this will help out the household for the holidays and then some. Many stores will also have special meats on sale before the holidays, so take advantage of a deal whenever you see it. When you’re shopping you shouldn’t have to go out of your way to do this either. Just budget a little extra for these buys and when you find them it can help lower your shopping expenses immensely. Of course, some areas will still offer good sales, so you may want to get to these sales as early as possible!

3. Think Smaller
A lot of the time we tend to go way overboard on our Thanksgiving meal planning. After all, it’s a time of celebration and we want to do it right! Of course, after day 5 of eating turkey sandwiches it may not have been such a good idea to plan on feeding a small army. So, if your family complains about the amount of leftovers you’re having, if you don’t have enough room in your refrigerator to store all of the leftovers, or if you end up dumping half of the meal in the garbage then you may want to rethink how much you cook. If your family doesn’t go through a lot of meat then plan on cooking a turkey breast, ham steak or any smaller meat choice. You don’t have to buy the biggest ham or turkey in the market place either. Keep it small and you’ll save a lot of money! Another great way to cut down the meal is to limit your sides. You don’t have to have five different starches, an array of vegetable and so many pies you don’t even have enough room to display them. Instead, write down a few items the family doesn’t eat as often and go from there.

4. Make it From Scratch
Again, planning and executing the Thanksgiving meal is intimidating which is why so many turn to cans, boxes and jars to get the job done faster. However, the more premade or” just add water items” you buy, the higher your budget is going to go. Instead of buying the ready to go stuff, try your hand at making some items from scratch. It’s actually not as scary as you may think, so don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty. Shopping for items to make from scratch can run you a lot cheaper too. In fact, you may find that you already have many of the items in your home. Plus, the items you do have to buy will last long enough for you to make several batches of food throughout the year. If you’re still feeling a little reluctant to do this then start out with one dish this year and move on to two next year. You’ll see right away that it makes the holiday more fun, especially when you get help from family. You may also feel a bit more pride in your meal when you present it to loved ones! Not to mention, the food will be a lot healthier.

5. Clued in Shopping
Your Thanksgiving feast can be cheaper than you think if you use the power of good shopping. To begin with, you should try to avoid buying items that don’t have a coupon or aren’t on sale. Yes, this can be a real pain when you just want to get in and out of the store, but your bank account will be thankful when you finish your shopping. It may be hard to find coupons as well, but check out the local ads and surf the net to see if you can get what you need at the best possible price. You should also try to shop during sales as much as possible, but make sure to look up the original price of the item before you buy. Another way to avoid high prices is to shop around. Yes, it’s frustrating and this time of year is crazy, but shopping around can save you a whole lot. If you’re lucky you can do a lot of the shopping around online, so you’ll know what you need and where you can get it from without having to go down every single aisle.

6. Go Generic
One important thing to remember while grocery shopping this year is to stay away from the pesky name brand items. These items are actually stacked on the shelf so we seem them first and want to buy them; however, they’re also a higher price than you should pay for what you need. Rather than go straight for the name brand, you should look around for its generic counterpart. These items don’t have as flashy of a label and are usually stacked on the bottom of the shelf. Generally, these items can be dollars to cents cheaper than the name brand. Although the cents may seem like a small number at first, once you get to the checkout counter each one will begin to make your bill higher and higher. So, by shopping the generic items you can save a whole lot more than you think. The best thing is, the generic items rarely taste different. You can find generics from everything from canned goods to the meat products you plan on purchasing.

7. Potlucks
When it comes to Thanksgiving dinner, nothing can make you feel better about your amount of work and budget quite like making it a potluck. If you’re hosting you’ll probably want to make the main course, but if you’re not comfortable and someone else wants to do it then let them have the glory. Potlucks allow people to bring whatever they want, which means you’ll be able to buy less without worrying about there not being enough food on the table. Try to have your guest RSVP with the items they plan on bringing. This will help you plan what you absolutely need to prepare to make the dinner table fuller. After everyone has come and gone with their dish you can rest assured that there will be less of a clean up to worry about and you won’t be stuck on leftovers for the next couple of weeks. Potlucks will also give you a large variety, so people can a taste new dishes that you may want to incorporate into next year’s planning!

8. Skip Unpopular Dishes
Every year there’s a dish that we tend to make that isn’t exactly on anyone’s list of must have food. Usually people take a small serving to be polite, but by the end of the holiday and leftover period it still sits uneaten. If you have one of these dishes on your menu then just go ahead and take it off your list. I know tradition is tradition, but if you’re on a tight budget there’s no reason to waste money on food that isn’t going to be eaten. Instead, take the money and put it towards a household favorite or use it for something else entirely!

9. RSVP Please
When you have a lot of guests over for the holiday it’s hard to know exactly how much food you’re going to need to make. A lot of people are often on the fence about their attendance, so we tend to make an abundance of food just in case everyone shows up. This can be really pricey though and if half of the people who were on the fence don’t show up you’re stuck with a lot of leftovers that could go to waste. Rather than guesstimating how many people will be at your celebration ask them all the RSVP. If they can’t tell you if they’re going to be there then don’t worry about them. Simply count on the guests you know will be there and plan your meal accordingly. This will cut down on money and stress!

10. Food Bank
If you’re still uncertain how you’re going to get a Thanksgiving meal together on your tight budget then consider going to a food bank. Many require families that need the extra help sign up so they know how many food baskets to make. Then they will issue you a date to pick up your basket, which is usually filled with a meat as well as traditional holiday sides. Sometimes you don’t have to do anything but sign up to get your basket while other times you may have to supply some information on your income. No matter what, the process is usually quick and will have your family meal under control for the big day. If you’re not sure where to start then look online, call your community center or talk to a local church. You may also try the food pantry to see if they can offer you information or food as well.

Thanksgiving isn’t supposed to be filled with excess stress. Instead of worrying about your food budget try to utilize these tips into your meal planning. They should help cut down on the amount of money you spend on your meal. When you cut down on the stress of the holiday and concentrate more on its meaning you’ll feel a lot more at peace with this special occasion. So, take a breather and give your grocery list a second look. This alone may help you feel more thankful and in tune with the holiday spirit.

Black Friday is one of the most chaotic days of the year and Cyber Monday can leave internet shoppers frustrated and sometimes, let’s face it, on the brink of tears! However, after all of the trouble you can end up saving quite a bit of money while putting a pretty good dent in your holiday shopping list. Black Friday and Cyber Monday save you a lot of money as is, but there are a few things you can do to maximize those savings and get the best possible deals. With a little know how, this Black Friday and Cyber Monday will be your most successful year of shopping yet. So, make sure your shoes are tied and put on your game face because this year’s biggest shopping day is right around the corner!

1. Don’t Fall For Flashy Ads
A lot of stores will try to draw you in and get you to spend a lot of money using big flashy signs. There’s a science behind this, so don’t feel bad if you’ve fallen for it in the previous years. A lot of stores use this method because it does actually draw people in, but it also distracts. Sometimes, there’s some fine print to those big signs, so don’t be fooled by their efforts. Look on the sign to see if there’s anything else written on it before you jump right in. You should also check its price tag and if possible its original price tag. This will help prevent you from falling for sales that have only reduced an item by mere cents. It’ll also help you learn the conditions of the sale. Sometimes you have to turn in a rebate or other tasks to get it for the correct price. So, make sure you know what’s what before you get a not so pretty surprise at the register.

2. Seek Out Coupons
Just because it’s Black Friday and Cyber Monday doesn’t mean there isn’t coupons to be found! So, you may have to do a little more searching to find them and you may not get a very positive reaction when you hit the checkout counter with them, but you’ll be saving money and that’s all that matters! Before you begin to make a shopping plan for this big event look online at your favorite stores to see if there’s coupons to be had. You should also check the local ads because there’s guaranteed to be quite a few hidden amongst the shiny ads. If you’re planning on shopping online for Cyber Monday then you may have even more coupons to choose from! Remember, the more you find the greater the discount, so put those skills to work.

3. Free Shipping Deals
A lot of stores offer Black Friday deals online, not to mention the wide selection of sales that are offered on Cyber Monday. These let you shop from the comfort of your home so you have plenty of time to research your project to make sure you’re getting a top notch deal. On the other hand, despite the fact you’re saving some money, you’ll also lose some due to shipping cost. This can be totally frustrating when you go to check out. So, instead of feeling burned by your online shopping experience try to find some free shipping deals. A lot of stores will automatically add this to your cart if you spend a specific amount of money. Other stores will offer coupons for shipping, but you may have to be a subscriber to get this deal! So, before you get your hopes up about certain items, make sure the shipping isn’t going to leave you paying even more for your items!

4. Early Bird Deals
If you don’t mind waking up a little early then you may be in store for some major savings. Many stores will open their doors very early in the morning. The customers that choose to shop at such an early hour often get an extra percentage off of their purchase. This incentive may have you waking up at the crack of dawn, so make sure to hit the sack at a decent hour. Some stores will also offer special swag bags for those that visit early. However, these bags run out pretty quickly so the earlier you’re at the store the better! You may even find that some of the items can be used as gifts for others, thus saving you even more money. If you’re doing a lot of online shopping then you’ll love the early bird deals. These will show you what’s going on sale before it’s available so you can make sure you’re online and ready to go before the product is sold out. Some of the best deals are made available in the wee hours of the morning too, so hit your computer as soon as you can to save big!

5. Shoppers
Today, technology can be one of our best friends, so don’t get caught shopping without it! There’s a lot of special apps designed for shopping that really come in handy during this intense shopping period. To begin with, you should grab a few price comparison apps. These will allow you to scan or type in an item to see who has the lowest price, thus allowing you to catch the best deal every time. Many of these apps will even let you know if the item is in stock which can really help you decide if it’s worth traveling the distance to get it. A lot of your favorite stores may have also developed their own apps. These will offer you information on sales, savings, comparisons and even flash sales that may happen while you’re in the store. The best thing is, sometimes you may even get discounts on the items just by showing digital coupons the app provides you! So, don’t forget your phone at home because you won’t get this kind of quick information any other way!

6. Smaller Scale Items
One of the biggest problems with Black Friday and Cyber Monday shopping is many people believe they have to shop for the big ticket items. Although, sometimes these may seem like the best deals you might be surprised as to what else is out there for the picking. Often, big ticket items like televisions or computers may seem like a big deal but you can also find those sales throughout the years. Plus, a lot of people feel the urge to buy these larger items just because of the price tag and not because it’s needed in the home. So, unless you absolutely need one of these items you may want to take a look around at some of the other deals that will save you huge. One of the best sections to look at is clothes because you can often get some winter must haves for mere cents! You may also want to check out tools, perfume and toys!

7. Walk
When you’re Black Friday shopping the best thing you can do is walk as much as possible. Parking may take you quite some time to do which is a waste of gas. So, if you’re driving to do your shopping try to pick a spot and stay there as long as you can. This is much easier if you’re heading to a shopping mall, but if not try to choose a space that will allow you to visit several stores within the area. By doing this you’ll be able to get a lot more shopping in. Plus, the time spent walking from one destination to the next is a great time to relax, keep track of finances and check off items you’ve already purchased from your list.

8. Mail in Rebates
There’s a pretty good chance you’re going to find several items you’ve purchased require a mail in rebate. Sure, you already got a pretty good deal on it, but don’t let that rebate go to waste. It will only take a couple of minutes to fill out and usually shipping is already paid for. Many people don’t bother with rebates which is a shame. It may take a few weeks for your refund to come in but when it does it is like Christmas all over again! Don’t settle for paying more than you have to when it just takes a little more effort to get back the money you were promised! Some rebates can even be done online, so if you have questions about them when you purchase the item make sure to ask!

9. Keep the Receipt
Shopping during Black Friday and Cyber Monday is fast paced and sometimes we don’t have our concentration caps on. Don’t worry though! With a receipt in hand you can take back items that don’t fit, aren’t of high quality or even items you’re not sure why you picked them up in the first place! When you’re working your way from store to store make sure to keep all of your receipts together in a safe place so you don’t have to worry about losing them. This way, all of your uh-oh purchases can be remedied before it’s too late. You may also think to grab some gift receipts too so your friends and family can return or exchange items that might not fit or suit their taste. The receipt plays a huge role in holiday shopping, so don’t be caught without yours! You may also get coupons on many of your receipts which will help out immensely too. Some will even come with surveys that will allow you free items or special discounts. So, don’t crumple up anything until you’re absolutely sure you don’t need it anymore.

10. Take Care of Your Needs
One of the most important aspects of Black Friday and Cyber Monday shopping is to take care of your own needs! Most important of all, you need to keep yourself hydrated. Make sure you stop to take water breaks every once in a while so you don’t feel sick as the day passes. You should also make a lunch break too, or bring small snack bars with you to combat hunger. Before you head out for shopping make sure you’ve gotten plenty of sleep. It may not seem like a way to save money, but when you’re not at your best you don’t make the grandest of decisions. So, keep up with your needs so you don’t end up buying a lot of things you don’t need nor want! You should also make sure you’re comfortable because often people who stress out their bodies too much tend to get into accidents, feel sick or end up fainting. No one wants this any time of the year let alone the holiday season, so keep safe!

This Black Friday and Cyber Monday are coming up fast, so make sure you’re ready to make some incredible purchases! With these tips you’ll be able to save even more money and may even get a little stressed out as you battle the crowds and slow websites to get the items you need. So, have fun, be safe and remember to keep these simple tips in mind while you’re checking out the latest items!

With the Arctic Blast upon us and winter following close behind it you may be bracing yourself for those expensive gas and electric bills that seem inevitable this time of year. Staying warm when it’s freezing out doesn’t have to be a huge burden on you though. There’s actually a few tips you can follow to make your bills go down while keeping the heat in your home a lot more comfortable. Luckily, these tips won’t cost you too much money either, so you’ll end up saving even more in the long run. So, grab your favorite winter coat and enjoy this fun change in temperature because your bills won’t have to reflect what the weather throws in your direction anymore!

1. Alter the Radiator
If you live in an older home then chances are you have a radiator you battle with every single winter. Don’t let your radiator keep you cold and in debt this season though! Instead, work around it to make it work more efficiently for you. One easy way to do this is add tin foil just behind the radiator. This will help get the house warmer and will even work to spread the heat evenly through the room. This is probably one of the most cost effective ways to avoid high bills during the season. The heat from the tin foil will also make the radiator go off sooner so you won’t have to deal with charges for the radiator being on so frequently. Another way to maximize the heat in the room is to place a shelf over the radiator. This will prevent the heat from moving upwards right away. Instead, it will be closer to your body’s height so you’ll feel warmer faster and longer. You should also move any furniture you have in front of the radiator. In some home’s this could be dangerous. The large pieces of furniture will also block the heat from getting to you, which isn’t good for the bills.

2. Windows
Your window can be a huge way to cut down on heating expenses. It’s totally fine to leave your windows unblocked during the day. This not only gives you much needed light, but will also allow the room to use the sun’s heat to warm up. When the sun isn’t out then close the windows with heavy drapes or you can even put up blankets to secure the window even more. This will block out the cold from outside while keeping the heat from inside locked in. If you’re looking for an extra layer of warmth then try to find a few see through shower curtains. The shower curtains will absorb heat, thus releasing it into the home. It will also add an extra barrier for the cold outside, which will help keep the heat inside even longer. You should also check your windows for drafts every year, just to avoid even more heat loss.

3. Fireplace
Many choose to go the natural way when it comes to keeping warm during the winter. The only problem with this is when you do choose to use a fireplace, the fire can actually make the home even colder. So, when you do decide to start a fire make sure all of the doors in the home are closed. This will help keep the heat in the room longer while not making the extra rooms in the home even colder. You should also check to make sure the fireplace is clean and ready to go before you light your first fire. It wouldn’t be very cost effective to start up a fire and have the chimney go ablaze. Usually your gas company will offer a free inspection, but you can also hire someone for cheap to check it out. You may also be able to do it yourself. You should use wood you find yourself, but if you have to buy it then check on Craigslist or other local listings to see if you can find some for cheap. Of course, if you don’t plan on using the fireplace this season then you may want to invest in a chimney bubble. This will prevent cold air from coming in through the chimney so your warm air will stay in the house longer. Luckily, these aren’t expensive to find!

4. Check for Drafts
A draft can be your worst nightmare when it comes to your power bill! They can be found all over the house and will make all of your nice heated air seem cold in 0 to nothing. Before the extreme weather comes in you should walk around the house and feel around for them. They’re usually found by doors and windows. Don’t stress if you do find them because you won’t have to pay a fortune to get the issue taken care of before winter really sets in. There’s an endless amount of ways you can take care of a draft though. You can buy draft snakes which fit perfectly on the windowsill or you can add plastic film or Styrofoam around the windows. You could also just block the draft with some blankets to save even more money. If you’re getting a draft from the mail slot then slide some foam in the hole, or you could also place bristles, like those from a broom, in the hole. To cover up key holes just add some cardboard or foam to prevent the draft from leaking in. You can always find more permanent fixes for these items later on.

5. Camp In
On the weekends have some fun with the kids by camping in. You can easily make a tent in the living room using blankets and household items. Spend the time munching on camp foods like s’mores and chili to make things even warmer. You can share stories, play games and read books to pass the time and get the full camp experience. While you’re in the tent, body heat will get trapped inside which will keep you all warm. It will get even warmer if you build your fort with heavier blankets. You may also want to pull out your warm sleeping bags if you own them. If not, then your typical bedding will work just fine. If things still aren’t warm enough then you may want to build a fire in the fireplace or add a small and energy efficient space heater the mix.

6. Warm Hands & Feet
It might sound pretty obvious, but keeping your hands and feet warm are the best way to keep your entire body warm. So, instead of blasting the heat on your body try to go to greater measures to keep these parts of your body warm. Generally, gloves and thick socks can go a long way with this issue, but sometimes even these items aren’t enough. If you do a lot of work on the computer or like to spend some time catching your favorite programs on T.V. then try placing your feet on a heating pad. You could also use a water bottle on your feet. This is especially important at night when you’re in bed. An Incandescent light might also help keep you warm without raising the cost of your electric bill. There’s other special items like a heated mouse for the computer that could work in your favor to!

7. Build a Heater
One great way to transform the cold into a science experiment for the kids is to build your own heater. This can be a lot of fun and may even help you heat the home for mere pennies a day. One of the most common homemade heaters is a candle heater. This project is quick to make and only uses 3 main components. You’ll need tea candles, a metal pan and 2 ceramic flower pots. Put the tea candles in the metal pan, light them and cover the pan with flower pots. You can find a quick tutorial online for this project. The other more popular homemade heater is made from a tin or aluminum can. This takes a bit more work and can be more dangerous than the other heater, so it’s only good for older children under strict supervision. When making your home heater it’s important to remember safety first. Follow the tutorials online as well as your own rules for fire and safety before attempting this.

8. Baking
Nothing cheers up a winter day quite like something baked. Although warm food does help heat up the body and make us more comfortable, using the oven brings the home to a warmer temperature. So, instead of cranking up the heat on your home take to the kitchen. This can be one of the best times to teach kids how to cook. Try to come up with healthy desserts and meal plans that require the oven during this time. As your meal heats up so will your home, which will help make everyone feel much more comfortable. When the meal is finished cooling don’t just let that heat go to waste. Instead, block off the kitchen if you have pets or little ones. This is easily done with a baby gate. Then, open up the oven and let the heat flow into the home. It’ll offer a nice boost of warmth to the home, especially as the temperature drops for the night time hours.

9. Be Healthy
One easy way to avoid feeling cold all the time is to keep a healthy lifestyle. Working out will help warm up your body quickly and will also help keep it warm because it boosts your metabolism and helps with circulation. Try to work in small amounts of exercise throughout the day, especially on days when you’re not doing much. You should also eat more stews and soups, especially if they’re on the healthier side. These hot meals will warm up your body, but will also keep you feeling better with good nutrition. Soups have a lower calorie intake too, which could help you feel more lively and energetic thus making getting the proper amount of exercise easier. Drinking hot tea is also a great way to keep warm. Generally, teas don’t have a lot of calories and offer a wide variety of health benefits. Finally, eat foods with ginger and snack on nuts as these foods will help with circulation too!

10. Layers
Don’t let your closet fail you in your time of need! As the weather begins to drop you should start piling on the layers. The more you wear the less likely you’ll want to put on the heater. Try adding a pair of tights beneath jeans and triple layer tops. You can also double up thick socks to keep your body heat regulated. To make it even more fun you can direct a fashion show to get the kids on board. The more clothes you can utilize in the cold the better. You can also wear a lot of the items over again so you won’t have to do as much laundry. If the Arctic Blast gets too cold for your taste then you may even want to wear your winter coat and beanie inside.

Getting away from the cold may seem hard when you’re trying to keep your expenses down. With these simple tips you should be able to keep your body warm so you don’t have to rely on your home’s heating system as much. With the thermostat set at a cost efficient setting you’ll be ready to enjoy the savings while also having a little more fun with your family!

Pregnancy should be a time to celebrate your upcoming journey into parenthood. With everything changing it’s easy to get swept up in the moment, which could cause you to spend too much money during this period of time. Given, you’re going to need some supplies to get you through the pregnancy you may already be hurting for money because you need to also buy items for the baby. There’s a few ways you can get rid of the high prices of maternity items, so you can actually worry about the things you’ll need when baby finally arrives. With these ten tips you should be able to keep yourself looking fashionable while feeling great during this beautiful time in your life. So, forget spending hundreds of dollars just to clothe yourself for 9 months, because these tips will give you a few hacks that take care of your basic pregnancy needs.

1. Jeans
When it comes to buying maternity clothes, jeans can be one of the priciest items to purchase. Although you could avoid them altogether and just wear dresses, this isn’t always the best option (especially in winter!). So, how can you get the clothes you needed without spending a whole lot of money? Easy, alter the stuff you already have. Typically, we pay a whole lot of money for our clothes anyway, so why give up that cute pair of fashion jeans just because your belly bump is in the way? During the first few months of pregnancy you can easily extend your jeans with a bungee cord. Wrap this around your button and slip it through the hole to add more length to the jeans. When the baby bump is a little too big for this then grab an old stretchy tank top. Fold the button portion of the jeans inward which will open up the area in which your belly will rest. Then place the tanktop in this region and sew it in. This will allow you more space so you can look great and feel comfy. If you’re having trouble getting it to work then look online for a few tutorials.

2. Sew Dresses/Skirts
During your next 9 months you may become a huge fan of dresses and skirts. However, this doesn’t mean that you have to go out and buy an all new selection of these items. If you have skirts with an elastic waist band then you may be able to get away with wearing these in the early months of your pregnancy. As the baby bump begins to grow it might be time to break out the sewing machine and get to work. Don’t stress out over this though! Pregnancy dresses and skirts are extremely simple to make and won’t take you long at all. You should look online for ideas or patterns before you decide what you’re going to make though. Once you’ve downloaded a free pattern or found a cheap one locally then you should be all set. Try to choose fabrics that aren’t expensive, but you may also want to think about the weather when making your choice. Then, get to work. It will honestly only take you an hour or so to have something that’s going to suit you throughout the 9 months. I’d recommend getting a good start on these items before the baby bump gets too big though, as bending down to do some of the work might be tough in the later stages!

3. DIY shirt
If you like to shop ahead or have had friends that were pregnant then you probably know there’s some adorable maternity shirts out there. Of course, they all cost quite a bit, which isn’t reasonable for clothing you’re only going to wear a very short while. Instead of buying into the craze you may want to just settle with making your own crazy designs. This is pretty easy to do too! You’ll want to get some printable iron on transfers or fabric paint to make this possible though. You will also need to buy some cheap and basic maternity t-shirts. Once you have your materials go wild. You can do anything your heart desires. One of the more common designs is a cute countdown, which is great if you plan on taking pictures to show your pregnancy’s progress. If t-shirts aren’t your thing or you like to mix it up then try to create an empire waist shirt with one of your partner’s old shirts (or one you buy from a store). This is simple to do and only requires you to sew a hem beneath the bust line.

4. Pillows
You’ve probably heard a lot of buzz about pillows from pregnant friends, or may have even realized your need for a special pillow if you’ve been pregnant before. Unfortunately, these pillows can cost you a small fortune which isn’t great when you have a budget to uphold. However, living without one after the first few months of pregnancy may also make you want to scream. The solution is to simply make you own. You can sew two pillows together to create a contouring pillow that will rock your world. You may also be able to find a pattern for a pillow that will suit your pregnant body. Of course, if you’re experienced with sewing then you may be able to work this issue out without actually having to find a pattern. If you’re not up for the crafting aspect then simply find a basic body pillow. You can always work with it to contour to your body so you can sleep even sounder.

5. Stretch Mark Products
One thing most women immediately think to buy when they’re pregnant is stretch mark cream. Most brands are pretty pricey though and if you want to keep using it throughout the pregnancy you may be looking at a lot more money than you’d expect. You also don’t know what comes in many of the products. Some could have chemicals that aren’t exactly the best for your skin or your baby, so don’t even take a chance. Instead, learn to make your own! It’s actually quite simple and require ingredients that you may already have around the house. One recipe only calls for coconut oil/butter, almond oil and commonly found baby oil. Of course, there’s a lot of different recipes online so try to do a little research and find one that suits your budget. You may also want to try various different kinds just to see which works with your body best.

6. Nausea Relief
Morning sickness is one of the worst aspect of pregnancy, but having to fork over a lot of money to get relief can make the problem feel even worse. Rather than going to the store to find relief you can easily create a few recipes to help you fix the problem without spending any extra. One simple way to do this is to mix water and your favorite sports drink. Add this to an ice tray and freeze it over night to create a nice treat that will cool you down and replenish your electrolytes in the morning. A combination of teas will also help get rid of this frustrating problem. Try mixing up a batch of tea using a mixture of dried red raspberry tea, nettle and peppermint leaves. This tea also provides nutrients that are good for the baby. Finally, anything with ginger in it will knock out nausea pretty quickly. You can add it to tea, combine it with fruit to make a popsicle, or enjoy it in a homemade ginger ale.

7. Photography
Most mothers want to create maternity photography to remember the first stages of parenthood. This is fantastic and family and friends will love seeing the pictures; however, these photos can be incredibly pricey if you hire someone to do them. If you already have a good camera in the home then there’s no reason to hire someone to do it for you. Instead, set up the photos yourself. You can easily take ideas from online and incorporate them to suit your needs. If you don’t have a timer then have your partner take them for you. You can also ask a friend or family member to help you out. If you do want some help with your photography then hire a student or amateur to take the photos, This will end up costing you a lot less and will help out the budding photography. You may even be able to add more direction to your photos if you hire someone new, which could help with your overall satisfaction of the pictures.

8. Bras
Bras are pricey, so you probably won’t want to go out and buy a few just to help you through the first months of your pregnancy. There’s a few ways to avoid having to spend a ton just to keep comfortable though. Throughout your pregnancy you should be able to get away with not buying a new bra if you have some bra extenders. This will help keep the bra comfortable on your body as you begin to gain a little weight. However, after the baby is born and you will probably need a larger cup size. When this happens you might want to buy a multi-pack of nursing bras which will suit your needs and save you some money. Of course, sports bras are often overlooked when it comes to pregnancy. These bras can keep you feeling pretty comfortable during the long nine months and will give you room to grow without having to get a size upgrade.

9. Hydrate
Okay, so it may seem totally obvious but keeping hydrated will not only keep you looking and feeling great but will save you some major money. Try to keep water up high and at an arms reach if you can. This will encourage you to drink as much water as you can which will prevent you from drinking sugary drinks that are bad for you and the baby. The more water you drink the less you’ll have to deal with cramps and discomfort which is always a bonus when you’re pregnant. You should also eat water based foods to help with your consumption and overall health. Foods like cucumbers, radishes and watermelons are always great for you and can make a salad taste amazing. As you make this lifestyle change you’ll feel more energized which is great especially since pregnancy often causes fatigues.

10. Hand-me-downs
When it comes to maternity clothes, everyone seems to have some from their previous pregnancies. This can be a major bonus when it comes to saving you a lot of money. You shouldn’t turn down hand-me-downs when they come your way. Even if they don’t tend to fit properly you can easily alter them to suit your needs. These clothes are usually in excellent shape too as they’re only worn for a few months at a time. This will keep you looking fashionable while you’re pregnant, so you won’t feel the need to compensate your lack of chic when the baby is born. Make sure to talk to friends and family about hand-me-downs as soon as you’re ready to share the news of your pregnancy. The more people you have in your life to help out the more selection you’ll have with your clothing needs.

Being pregnant doesn’t mean you have to hang around in mu-mus until you deliver. It also doesn’t mean going out and spending hundreds on special creams to make your skin look amazing post baby. There’s ways around the big ticket items which may even make your pregnancy all the more rewarding. As it inches closer and closer to baby time you’ll be able you saved so much on items that would have taken away from your baby needs.

As the weather begins to cool down the chance of getting sick heightens. Cold and Flu season is upon us and it may seem like there’s no way of getting around catching something. You shouldn’t have to stress out about getting sick though. Sure, it feels incredibly bad and forces you to take some time off school and/or work. However, there are a few ways you can beat the cold faster or possibly even prevent it from causing you symptoms at all. The best thing is, you won’t have to spend a fortune on relief products, nor will you have to pump your body full of unhealthy chemicals. Rather, these health aids are easy accessible in the home and many will come from your very own pantry! So, take a deep breath in without worrying about whose germs you may be inhaling!

1. Water
Every time you go to the doctor you’re probably told to drink lots of fluids, right? There’s one fluid you should always drink in abundance though. Water. This amazing beverage is the key to our existence for a reason, so next time your sick forget the sugary fruit juices, sports drinks and sodas and go straight to the source for a little relief. As you continue to hydrate your body with pure water it will actually help remove the toxins from your system. This flush can help you get better faster while relieving you of many of your symptoms. Water will also reduce any cramping problems you may be having as it hydrates the muscles so they can relax. Drinking water can help regulate a stuffy nose because it eases the sinuses. If you’re suffering from a runny nose though you may want to try adding a drop of salt water into each nostril. You can even get a fever to drop by soaking your feet in hot water. Once you remove your feet from the heat simply place socks that have been soaking in cold water on. Add another pair of thick and dry socks onto these and you’ll be set for a soothing nap and fever relief.

2. Apple Cider Vinegar
You may have read a few articles about apple cider vinegar in your time. This product has become one of the go-to products that many doctors and nutritionist are promoting this year, but it’s actually no gimmick. Sure, you may think of it as an easy cleaner when you’re on a tight budget or a cooking aid for some of your more intricate meals, but there’s a lot to apple cider vinegar. This powerful product is a master at getting rid of bad bacteria, so of course it’s going to come in handy when you’re feeling under the weather. Apple cider vinegar also works to restore pH levels in the body so if you’re suffering from an infection it can help get you sorted out. It can also help bring the body back to normal if you’ve had to take antibiotics. When you start to feel a hint of sore throat coming on, or other symptoms you may want to knock out in a hurry then drink a shot glass of apple cider vinegar and you’ll be on your way. If you can’t handle the taste then add it to water, it’s less potent and will hydrate you too.

3. Citrus
One common thing people do when they’re sick is gravitate to comfort food, which usually means they eat a lot more junk food. This bogs down your system even more and can prevent you from getting well fast. Rather than make up a huge batch of mashed potatoes try to grab a piece of citrus fruit. These fruits usually have a lot of vitamin C which will give your immune system the boost it needs to get your body back on track. One of the best fruits to have is a grapefruit, which is perfect for breakfast when you can’t take the day off work. You might also want to make freshly squeezed orange juice. It’s important to make this on your own as store bought juiced is filled with ingredients that aren’t good for you. If you’re suffering from a sore throat then cut lemon slices and place them in hot water. It will calm the pain and provide you with vitamin C. You may also want to consider cutting a lemon in half and adding salt and pepper. This has been said to ease a cough if you suck on it.

4. Honey
Honey taste so good it may be hard to believe it’s good for you. However, honey has a special bacteria that can help your body thrive especially when you’re feeling under the weather. The best thing you can do is find honey that is made locally. This is going to help ease an allergy problems you have because it is made with the allergens that are nearest to you. This can be a big deal for easing sinus pains as well as other symptoms of allergies. Honey also adds a thick layer to the throat which can help reduce coughing. It can also reduce the pain in the vocal cords while making speaking easier when you’re feeling a little hoarse. Add honey to some hot lemon water or tea and you’ll be able to enjoy a nice treat that is helpful to your immune system. You should never give honey to babies though, so think twice before using this method on your little ones.

5. Ginger
If there’s one super food you should always have in the house when you’re feeling sick it’s definitely ginger. Ginger has a lot of uses when you’re ill, but its most common is for nausea. It’s perfect if you’re having trouble keeping down food or just feel too terrible to even try to eat. If you’re not feeling hungry then you should try to drink something with ginger in it. It will restore your appetite so you can get the calories you need to feel better faster. Ginger is great for all sorts of stomach problems too; such as, cramping, gas and diarrhea. Of course, if you’re suffering from bronchitis it could help get you on the mend while reducing pain from the illness. There’s an abundance of food and drink you can make with ginger, so be prepared with a special recipe before you get sick.

6. Herbal Tea
There’s a variety of herbal teas on the market so you’ll have a lot to choose from. You can even base your tea on the symptoms you’re having, which will give you a totally custom treat while you’re ill. If you’re not sure what to buy then do a little research to see what herbs will help you with your particular symptom. There’s tea for just about anything so you may want to buy more than one type. One of the best things about herbal tea when you’re sick is can help soothe your body so you’ll be able to get some sleep. This is a better alternative to medications that force you to sleep and will make it easier for your body to heal. Apart from its healing abilities, herbal tea can help ease a sore throat with its warmth which is always a comfort.

7. Almonds
Headaches are a pretty common thing when you’re not feeling good, especially if you’ve managed to catch the flu. One way to fight these off without overloading on anti-inflammatory medications is to eat almonds! This is probably one of the tastiest ways to eat yourself better and may have you feeling a little more pep in your step. Almonds are filled with magnesium which is great for reducing headaches without the aid of medication. Almonds are also a very alkaline food which means they will help regulate your body and get your pH level back to normal. This in itself will boost your immune system and get you feeling better faster than you’d think possible. Other nuts will offer some of the same healing powers, but almonds should be your go to nut when in crisis.

8. Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a very homey flavor which in itself can make you feel great. However, this common spice can really pack a powerful punch when it comes to getting you better in a hurry. If you start to feel sluggish and know a cold is going around then add some cinnamon to your coffee or tea to give you an extra edge from getting sick. If you catch the cold or virus early enough the cinnamon can boost your immune system enough to have you kicking the problem before it even had a chance to inconvenience you. Cinnamon is a strong anti-fungal spice and can really get viruses out of your system in no time, which can mean you may not even have to book an appointment with your general practitioner. Cinnamon is also a lot of help if you’re battling a stomach ache and is easy to incorporate into drinks and meals.

9. Garlic & Onion
Garlic and onion are already great for you, but when you’re feeling sick they can get you on the mend. Add both of these items to your favorite sick soup and you’ll be feeling better in no time. They both work hard to fight against bacteria which will help out your immune system. Consuming these foods aren’t your only option though. In fact, if you cut a purple onion in half and place in the room with someone that is sick the onion will absorb the toxins in the air which could prevent the illness from spreading. You can also place onion on the bottom of your foot with a sock holding it in place. Sleep this way and the onion will absorb toxins over night, thus allowing you to be on the mend faster.

10. Exercise
One way to keep yourself healthy is to get to moving, especially when your symptoms are above the neckline. A little exercise during this time can help get any fluids or bacteria out of the lungs so you won’t have to cough as much throughout the illness. It also helps clear the sinuses so you can say goodbye to your stuffy nose for good. Sweat also helps send the toxins straight out of your body, so you can get rid of whatever is bothering you in a more timely manner. You should always follow your instinct when it comes to working out while sick though. If you’re really feeling too weak then its time for your body to get some rest. Also, if you have a high temperature then you shouldn’t push it too hard either. However, in the early days of the cold you should feel free to keep your routine up as usual. You may even notice your symptoms stop while you’re working out. Although getting moving is healthy, you shouldn’t do it if you’re having aches and pains in your abdomen, this could make the problem feel even worse.

No one likes being sick, so why waste so much time fighting off symptoms? With these ten items you’ll be able to kick anything that comes your way which means less time feeling gross and more time taking on the world. The best thing is, these items can usually be found in your home so you won’t have to spend a lot of money on them. Even if you don’t have them they’re pretty cheap to come by, so you won’t have to add them to your weekly budget!

With the holidays rapidly approaching you may be thinking about hitting the road to enjoy some time with family and friends. You may also be thinking of a few ways to avoid the cold weather while also getting to see the world! With an RV in your life you can definitely find your way around the world without spending as much money, but it may limit you to how at home you feel! There’s a few ways you can transform your RV into a real home away from home though, without spending an arm and a leg to do so. So, before you head south for the winter or tackle the holiday traffic, try adding a few of these finishing touches to your RV so you and your family will enjoy the trip all the more.

1. Insulate
There’s no denying that the cooler temperatures have finally hit which might make spending time in an RV a little uncomfortable if you’re on a tight budget. Heating is always an option, but does burn more gasoline which is bad when you have days of travel to pay for. Rather than try to pump the entire RV full of heat you can easily and cheaply insulate your RV. One way to do this is put bubble wrap on your windows. You might feel a little crazy while you’re doing it, but once you notice the difference in temperature it will be well worth it. If you don’t like the look of the bubble wrap then add some curtains! This will give it a more homey feel anyway and will help keep out that extra cold that might seep in. You can velcro the curtains to the wall in order to keep them in place while driving. You might also consider adding anti fatigue mats to your bedding. This will allow the family to feel more comfortable while locking in heat. Another idea is to buy a special vent cushion. This can be found cheap online and will lock in the heat that escapes from the top of the RV.

2. Create Sleeping Spaces
RVs usually come with at least one bed, but if you’re traveling with the entire family this can make things pretty cramped and miserable. You shouldn’t have to cram into one bed though, so think out of the box when it comes to sleeping spaces. One way to make sleeping in the RV fun for kids is to make them their own special bunk that hangs above the dashboard. This can easily be done with pvp pipe and a thick fabric. Typically, these beds are only good for small children, so watch the weight limit carefully. You can also transform counters or table tops into a bed using egg crate cushions. Another idea is to hang up a hammock in the RV. These can be adjusted to suit many different weight types, but make sure it’s sturdy before putting the kids in it. If all else fails, you can create a pallet. When it’s time to get up and moving all of these items can be stored away in a closet or on the main bed.

3. Pest Control
There’s nothing that can irritate a trip in the RV quite like pests. They’re tough to avoid and every time you make a stop there’s a chance you could pick up something new, or a stinky reminder that something was once there. Rest assured, you don’t have to spend a small fortune to get rid of pest problems in your RV. For starters, take a bar of Irish Spring Soap and leave it out wherever you think a mice may decide to come in. You can also leave shavings around the RV when you park to keep other animals from marking your vehicle. Wasps tend to be attracted to the warmer areas of the RV, so you may want to add half of a flea collar near your power source. The smell of the chemicals will ward the wasps off so they won’t go anywhere near the kids. It’ll also keep fleas away too. Finally, clean everything inside of the vehicle with Pine Sol. This will give the RV a nice homey smell, but it’ll also keep flies away which are one of the more annoying pests while you’re on the road.

4. Storage
The amount of storage you have on your trip can make or break your comfort levels. When it comes to storage you need to think out of the box to keep clutter out of your way throughout the trip. This is important because even small amounts of clutter can make an already small space feel tiny. You can start by stocking your cabinets with square containers. These are easy to stack and will take up less space than circular containers, thus allowing you to fit more into a small space. You can place just about anything in these too, including food supplies. Another life saver for storage purposes is shoe organizers. You can buy organizers designed to fit on the back of the closet for fairly cheap. These can be cut up and placed under the mattress so they hang on the side of the bed. You may also want to find behind the seat storage containers and shower curtains with built in pockets. With items like these you’ll be able to keep most of your stuff tidy. You might consider investing in shower caddies. Most of these will already have suction cups so you can place them all over the RV for stray items like pens, small games or charging devices.

5. Lighting
You may not think about lighting as creating a serene environment, but once you travel without it you’ll be longing for this basic comfort. You can fairly inexpensively hook LED lights up in your RV so you’ll be able to see better in the kitchen. A lot of these lights will run on 12V, so do some shopping around to see if you can find a good deal. You may also want to consider solar lights. These are great if you leave the windows open and can help you save energy while you’re working or playing. Kids love battery operated touch lights, especially at night. These can be placed on the walls of the RV and won’t need a battery change too often. Reading lights and flashlights are a must too, especially if you have a household that is mixed with night owls and early birds. Finally, you should have some form of light strip or reflective light on your Rvs stairs so you won’t have to worry about anyone falling.

6. Food & Drink
Eating in the RV doesn’t have to be limited to basic sandwiches and fast food. You can actually do a lot with your small space if you plan accordingly. Keep your refrigerator a bit neater when you add scrambled eggs to a recycled creamer container. This allows for easy pouring and will keep the large crate out of your tiny space. You can also protect beverages while on the go by adding press and seal to the top of them. Kids will love drinking from the straw and you’ll love having less of a mess to clean up. When it comes to keeping fresh goods in the home you can consider a hanging shelf. This tends to be perfect for produce, but you can also use it for breads, chips and other must have items. You don’t have to sacrifice flavor while on the road either. Instead, use baby jars to store your spices. These items can be velcroed to the top of the cabinet or a wall for easy access without taking up cabinet or counter space. You can store other items in these too, such as toothpicks or corn holders. Keep cooking utensils out of the way by velcroing them to the wall. If you don’t have a lot of counter space then pull out your top drawer, place a cutting board in the space and prep away.

7. Lost & Found
It’s not hard to lose things in a moving vehicle, so you may want to make a list of crucial items that need a little extra protection while you’re on the road. A few of these items may be the TV remote, an emergency cellphone, first aid kit, flash light and a folder of your important paperwork. These items are crucial to keeping everyone on board safe and happy so don’t take any risks. Before you leave on the trip place a piece of velcro on each item then allocate a spot for the item that everyone is going to remember. When you’re finished with the item put it back on the velcro and you’ll be set for an easy trip. You may have to plan out these locations carefully though. For instance, if the kids are on the TV there’s a pretty good chance they’re not going to move to put the remote elsewhere. Instead, place the velcro on the table or one of the chairs where TV is commonly watched. You could also place random velcro pieces around to avoid this very problem.

8. Entertainment
Keeping everyone busy on the road is a challenge in itself, especially when space is limited. Try to find small puzzles and card games to keep kids busy. You can easily place these games inside of a cut out box to help keep pieces from going everywhere. A dry eraser board is also a lot of fun for kids to doodle on or for games of pictionary. This can be installed on the wall so it won’t take up extra space. If you’re bringing along electronics then skip out on all the fancy accessories. Instead, you can easily use egg crates to keep the items cool, which will save on space and allow you to keep your weight limit down. It’s hard to avoid TV today, so if you do have one of these then try to make it a combo piece. You can cheaply get a DVD/TV/Radio combo just about anywhere which will also offer emergency support in case of poor weather.

9. Fans
The small space of an RV can feel claustrophobic without fresh air. Since it’s not always possible to open the windows, especially in the winter time, you may want to invest in a few fans to keep the space comfortable. You can cheaply find mini fans that can be placed around the RV, or you can invest in personal fans that can be used whenever an individual needs some air. When shopping for these items you should stick to solar or battery power as much as possible in order to save money. Once you get the fans going you’ll feel a lot cozier on the road.

10. Freshen It Up
You RV might not have the look you want, but this is easily changed! A lot of dollar stores sell tiling and veneer that can make your RV look even more like home than you could have imagined. Take an afternoon and replace the flooring and see how you feel about your space then. You can also add a new coat of paint to add to the new look. Try to pick something light in order to make the space feel larger. If you’re still not satisfied then try spicing things up with a new toilet seat cover or shower curtain. You can also come up with a few simple collages to add a touch of the family to the walls.

Taking to the road is a lot of fun when you have an RV to get from point A to point B. However, you shouldn’t have to spend an arm and a leg to make it the home you want. With these simple tips you’ll love the way your RV looks, which will make your holiday travels even more fun.

Decorating for the autumn months is lots of fun thanks to the enthralling colors and heart warming emotions that go along with the season. Unfortunately, many people can go way beyond their means when picking out autumn décor for the household. Luckily, there’s a lot of fun things you can make with supplies you find around the house. This will help bring the family together for a little bonding time while you make your home look fabulous. With a little imagination and a few basic crafting items you can have the home all of your neighbors are envious of at a budget you’ll want to brag about. So, get your creativity going and let everyone know just how cheerful you are about the season.

1. Corn
In the summer and autumn corn is in abundance, which is good news for anyone looking to create some adorable and rustic decorations. There’s a lot you can do with corn, so let your creativity soar here. One of the most common things to use for décor is corn husks. Simply hold onto your husks so you’ll have a good collection going when it’s time to decorate. These dry husks are pretty easy to work with so you won’t need a lot of special gizmos. One popular design is to make corn husk place mats. These look great during thanksgiving feasts and only require you to be able to braid the piece of husk together. You can also take these husks and shape them into pom poms for an exciting look that can be hung from the ceiling or used as a centerpiece. If you know a farmer who has some large stalks left over then barter for them! These can easily be rested beside doors to create a rustic look that everyone will go crazy over. If you’re looking for smaller décor then corn kernels go far inside glass containers!

2. Leaves
If there’s one thing you’ll have an abundance of this fall it’s definitely leaves. You can make a ton of crafts out of these for next to nothing, which makes it perfect for anyone on a budget! Have the family venture outdoors to pick out some of their favorites from your yard. Once you’ve got a pretty good collection going you can easily plan out hundreds of crafts. One great idea for the holiday season is make a leaf bowl. There’s lots of free tutorials for them online and they’ll come in handy for all of your autumn treats. Another exciting craft is to create beautiful roses out of the leaves. This is easy to do and will look perfect in a vase! If you have acrylic sealer lying around the house then spray the leaves so you can readily prepare them for a special autumn reef, or other designs that can be hung on the wall or placed on the table. Kids will love making leaf rubbings with their favorite fall colors. These look nice in a frame and will give you a craft everyone will remember working on. Finally, creating plaster leaves is also a fun project that will teach kids hows fossil are made while allowing them to use their painting skills!

3. Pumpkins
Pumpkins are probably the easiest thing to decorate with during autumn. Their look alone is a great symbol for the season, so you can make your home look great just by having them. Of course, you may want to have a little fun with the project, so try giving the pumpkin a makeover with a little paint. You can work with solid colors, paint your family’s initial or go wherever your creative mind takes you. If you really want to show off for the neighbors then make yourself a pumpkin statue by securing a few pumpkins together. This looks wonderful on a porch or by the mailbox. Inside the house you can create beautiful vases by hollowing out a pumpkin and adding some seasonal flowers. This makes a beautiful, and cheap, centerpiece whenever you’re planning on having guests. If you have smaller pumpkins, or other gourds, try hollowing them out for candle holders! The best thing is you won’t waste with either of these crafts as the pumpkin can be used for your favorite seasonal treats.

4. Canning Jars
Nothing says autumn joy quite like canning your favorite foods. However, canning jars often end up returning because of chips or other damage. These jars can easily be refurbished to create lovely autumn décor for your household. If you have some spare candles around the house then place one in a jar, the more autumn the color or scent the better it will look! You can also decoupage leaves to the outside of a jar, this will look even better when you have the candle lit. If candles don’t strike your fancy or you have a lot of jars then try adding a little foliage to the inside of them. Leaves will look great, as will twigs, pine cones and acorns. You can even put a fresh scent in to give it an even greater autumn effect. Another fun idea is to transform the jar into a thankful jar. You can write this on the outside using a glitter or other craft supplies. Then, everyone can add a message to the jar when they come up with something. When the season is over dump out the paper and enjoy reading them with the family.

5. Scrapbooking paper
If you’ve ever bought a package of seasonal scrapbooking paper then you probably have a lot of leftovers just collecting dust! These can easily be used for décor items though which will clear up some of your storage so you can buy paper you’d actually like to use. The pages can easily and cheaply be laminated to make custom placemats. You can also make custom place holders, napkin rings and other dining table accessory with the paper. Another great use for these items is to make cute little banners. They look great hanging from the chimney and will have guests in awe of your craftsmanship. Finally, you can have the kids create their own autumn inspired collage using your paper and other scrapbooking supplies which can be hung up for all to see.

6. Fabric
One of the easiest ways to decorate for the season is to grab some fabric with your favorite seasonal colors. Fabrics are easy to work with if you have some sewing skills and can really step the interior of your home up a notch. For instance, you can easily throw together a few pillows to make your living room look a little more festive. If you’re really looking to go all out then sew shapes of pumpkins, cornucopias and turkeys. If pillows aren’t what you’re looking for then you may consider a nice autumn inspired table cloth for your dining table or coffee table. You could also sew some runners for the end tables, coffee table, dining table and chimney. These items will make a room come together while ensuring you only spend a little bit of money. If you’re still not satisfied with your set up for Thanksgiving then you may want to add even more festivity to the look by sewing your own place mats and/or napkins! Your guest will be amazed by your crafty side as they enjoy your décor.

7. Use Candy
Autumn is filled with candy, so don’t just let it go to waste. Before Halloween you can use your trick or treater candy to decroate the home. Place the candy on cute trays or fill a glass vase with it. This will look cute to visitors and will keep your family’s hands off of the treats before the holiday. After Halloween you can use can candy corn to create a cute look by adding them to the same vases jars and decorative items. Candy corn is also fun to string together to create various décor items. One of the best ways to appease kids at the Thanksgiving table is to give them a napkin that has a candy corn napkin holder. If you’re feeling really craftsy you can easily create a candy corn tree that the kids will adore. Grab branches from outside and add some varnish or a darker color of paint. When you’re all dry then place them in a vase and fill the vase with the candy. Then, add some of the candy to the tips of the twigs. Everyone will be delighted by the look!

8. Garden Supplies
Go a little more rustic by using some of your old gardening supplies to create a fun look this season. One of the more common items to use is old pieces of gardening fence. This is shorter fence that usually ends up looking weathered as the years go by anyway. You can easily just prop the fencing up with a few pumpkins and call it a door, or you can add some special touches. A lot of decorators will paint seasonal greetings on the fencing which is always a hit as far as the guests are concerned. You can also take an old wheel barrow and fill it up with leaves, hay, corn and/or gourds for a seasonal decoration that really gets to the heart of it all. Old tin pails are also a great idea for showing off some of the season’s beauty. Try planting seasonal flowers in them, or re-pot some flowers from your own garden to save even more money.

9. Painted Doormats
If you don’t want to go all out this season, or you simply like to keep your doormat seasonal then painting doormats is right up your alley. Doormats are pretty cheap to buy, especially if you’re looking for a plain mat. Try looking at your local discount or dollar store to find a good price. You may even have a little luck at a thrift store! When you’ve found the right mat then grab some paint! Different people will recommend different types, so use what you feel will work best. When you’re ready to go then you can either use a stencil or free hand just what you want to say. The doormat will look great to guests and you can always put it away for next year if you like the design enough. The best thing is, the mats are cheap enough so you can whip one up for every holiday during the season if the mood arises~

10. Clearance
Crafts are a great way to create a decorative home, but sometimes we simply want to pick up an item at the store to complete the look. Although it may seem pricey to buy when the season is upon us, there is a few ways to shop that won’t harm your budget. One way is to look through clearance bins during the season. These will usually hold slightly damaged items, but with a little TLC you can transform them into the finishing look for your home. You could also wait until the season is over to shop for decorations. Usually by Black Friday stores want to move their autumn décor off the shelves so they can make room for winter items. With huge sales going on this day anyway you may walk out with a few steals you can brag about to your friends later on. You may also be able to find autumn décor throughout the year on your favorite websites, so keep an eye on the clearance bins here or price drops and coupons!

Autumn is an amazing time to get crafty with your décor. With some of the cheapest items to decorate with you’ll be well on your way to a winning look! So, take a minute to enjoy the crisp feeling in the air and then get to work on your gorgeous and budget friendly display!

Snowboarding is a great way to enjoy the great outdoors with your family while getting lots of exercise. The only problem is it can be an incredibly expensive hobby if you’re not sure how or where to find savings. Believe it or not, there’s a lot of ways to take away from the cost of this incredible sport. With these ten money saving tips you may be able to swing a trip or two to the slopes this season without having to splurge! So, stop putting away the pennies for your dream vacation on the slopes and make it a reality without stressing over the price tag. Once you get out on the fresh powder you’ll be quite impressed with your money saving know how! With October here many slopes are opening up to the public, so the sooner you plan out your trip the faster you’ll be able to enjoy your frugal planning.

1. Land and Go
A lot of businesses will make deals with airlines, so this may be the best place to start your money saving journey. Try to call around and ask if the business has a Land and Go deal. This will enable you to fly in on a certain date. Once you leave the airport you can feel free to enjoy the slopes throughout the day for absolutely nothing. If you can find a deal of this nature then it may take a lot of working to get the trip at a time that will make the deal worthwhile. Your best bet is to ensure you flight comes in very early in the morning. You may have to use your time on the plane to sleep, but it will be totally worth it when you get to the slope and don’t have to pay an admission fee. This is great for family’s with older children or couples as you’ll probably be in a big rush to maximize your free time. It’s also great for people who are just trying out the sport during a vacation, as if you’re not comfortable with it you won’t have to spend a lot of money going back!

2. Rentals
Equipment is one of the biggest costs when it comes to snowboarding. The board alone can cost you anywhere from hundreds to thousands of dollars, which makes it hard for many people to get into the sport. Even if you do get your equipment second hand for a cheaper price you’ll still have to pay a lot of money to lug it from Point A to Point B if you don’t live close enough to the slopes. Instead of spending a small fortune on your gear try to use rental gear. This won’t cost you as much and will allow you the freedom to travel from one slope to another without having to pay extra to fly your items, or having to strap them onto the vehicle where they may not make the trip undamaged. The more you rent your gear, the more you’ll know what you like so if you do decide to invest you won’t waste money on items that aren’t a good fit for you. You’ll also be able to find the cheaper rental locations if you plan on becoming a frequent renter, which will save big time.

3. Package Deals
One thing you should always do when traveling is package your deals. This is especially important when it comes to snowboarding. A lot of travel companies can snag you a deal that includes airfare, hotel and your time spent on the slopes so you don’t have to worry about securing each individual item. This cuts down on deposits and will ensure that your dates will easily match up without having to enter several potential travel days only to be disappointed by conflicting bookings. When you do get your travel costs in a package deal you usually end up spending less on each of the items including. Think of package deals like bulk shopping. Once you’re all booked up all you have to worry about is getting to the light on time. Many slopes will also offer package deals if you’re looking to get a lot out of your experience. These usually include lessons, time spent on the slopes and other amazing things like massages or a booking at the spa.

4. Go Early/Late
The easiest way to cut down on costs at the slopes is to go early in the season or late in the season. Generally, October is when many of the slopes open, but you have to be careful will timing here because sometimes you can play a trip up and find out there’s no snow to be had. The season tends to end in March or April which is much easier to plan out as you’ll know what the season has looked like thus far. Early or late season visitation tends to be a bit cheaper because people are unsure of the weather and they tend to want to wait until the snow has been falling for a bit longer. So, this is a great time to move in on the cheaper tickets. It will also allow you to enjoy the slopes while there’s a lot less people so you won’t have to deal with long lines, which is another way to get more for your money.

5. Local Discounts
Living near the slopes can be a great advantage in cutting down on your snowboarding costs to begin with. Obviously, since you don’t have to travel as far you’ll be able to spend a little more on ticket and rental prices. However, you shouldn’t have to! A lot of locations will offer local discounts to anyone in the direct area. It depends on the different locations as to the requirement of these deals, but it won’t do any harm asking if you think you may qualify for a deal. A lot of locals get to enjoy a reduced price ticket, so going snowboarding daily is quite possible. You may have to show and I.D. when you purchase your tickets, but once you prove residency you’ll be ready to shred all season. You may also be able to get a reduced price season pass that will ensure you get to spend as much time on the slopes as you want.

6. Join a Club
One of the best ways to enjoy a hobby is to join a club. There’s a lot of snowboarding clubs that can be found at the local or national level which may help you meet new people while building skills and furthering your interests in snowboarding. Clubs can also become a great way to unlock your ability to travel and enjoy slopes more often. Many clubs will get together annually to snowboard together, which will cost a bit of money on your end. However, when you do decide to travel with a club you will be privy to deals they receive. For instance, many clubs can get wholesale tickets for the slopes. Some will even rent a cabin for the weekend, so you have a place to stay that won’t cost you an arm and leg. Other times the club will book rooms and have people bunk together, so you won’t have to worry about paying full price for your stay. You may also get discount on renting gear, or perhaps will find someone you borrow items from! There’s a lot of advantages to clubs though and the financial aspect is only scraping the surface.

7. Deals
Before you set out on a snowboarding trip you should always make sure to look for deals. You may be surprised as to how many you can find, especially when the season is in session. Instead of heading to the travel agency site first try looking on pages you may frequent more in your everyday life. For instance, social media sites like Groupon and LivingSocial may be able to offer you an amazing deal you can’t find anywhere else. These deals are especially great if you do plan on going somewhere as group because they usually tend to cater more towards snowboarding lessons or other packages you may want to receive while you’re in the mountains. You should also make sure to look around on business sites in the area, to see if they have anything you may want to add to your package. If you’re celebrating your honeymoon or other special occasion you may want to mention this when you book tickets because sometimes you can get a special discount.

8. Splurge on Safety Equipment
Safety should always be your first concern whenever you try a sport. Even if you’re a veteran at the art you should have all the gear required to ensure you can survive an accident. Many people go out thinking something bad couldn’t happen to them, but this can be a terrible way of thinking especially when you’re dealing with high speeds and unpredictable weather. Rather than buying cheap gear to keep you safe you should always go with what you trust your life with. These items could save you if you collide into something so take pride in the equipment you wear. You can wear many of these items year after year, but you should always inspect them before you put them into storage and again when you take them out. This will ensure you have only the best for your time on the snowboard. After all, what’s more expensive then a pile full of medical bills because you weren’t properly equipped?

9. Season Pass
A lot of people tend to frequent slopes on the weekends, or even everyday. If you plan on making a visit at least once or twice a month then you might want to look into getting a season pass. This will ensure you get as much time as you want on the slopes from opening day until closing day. Season passes are a superb value for anyone that may live in the area. They tend to be priced lower than paying full price for a few days worth of slope time, so you won’t do yourself a disservice if you only use it three to four times during the season. Sometimes, season passes can unlock other amazing services which will make the pass pay for itself several times over. If you’re still not sold on the pass then call up any location that sells the item and ask about discounts, you may qualify for something without even knowing it!

10. Clearance
If you find yourself snowboarding more and more then you may want to buy your own equipment. The best way to do this is to check out the clearance aisle of your favorite sports or snowboarding shop. If you don’t have one locally then try online. Usually snowboards and a lot of the gear will go into the clearance section after the season is over. Like fashion, snowboard designers come out with new designs every season, so you can still get the best boards on the clearance rack you just won’t have the most up and coming designs. Safety equipment as well as any other accessories you’ll need can also be found with confidence here, but make sure to check out all the safety gear to ensure it wasn’t clearanced due to damage.

Snowboarding can be a lot of fun if you put the cost in the back of your mind and just enjoy the experience. However, there are many ways to make sure you’re not paying for your trip for the rest of the year. These simple tricks are easy for anyone to follow and can ensure you’ll be shredding plenty of snow this season and many more!