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Graduation is one of the biggest milestones in life, which is why so many find it to be one of the most expensive times. From getting your cap and gown to planning the perfect party, there’s a lot of spending to be done. This can sometimes seem impossible with the looming fear of student loans and not knowing where life is going to take you next. There’s a few ways to combat the graduation blues though, which will ensure your milestones is a joyous time rather than one filled with stress over money. With these simple tips you’ll be on your way to life’s next adventure without the cost of graduation following you around for the next few months. So, whether you’re a parent sending your child off to college or a recent college graduate, you can find bliss in the new moment of success without tying the bill to accomplishment.

1. Order Gown in Advance
With all of the hustle of studying for finals, putting in your final paperwork and absorbing the fact that this stage in life is almost over, you may forget to order your cap and gown. This can be a huge financial burden, so try to make sure you get your gown order in as soon as the paper work to do so is available. Usually, the price of the cap and gown start off much lower and gradually increases in price. If you find yourself without the order forms in and graduation weeks away you could be looking at paying a lot more for something that shouldn’t cost a whole lot. You may also be looking at late fees, which also add up and make the bill ridiculously higher. The best thing about ordering your cap and gown early is you can still choose the rent options over the purchase option. Renting cost so much less and you won’t have to find a place to store the gown when graduation is over, which can be a huge burden for graduates moving into smaller spaces.

2. Skip the Ring
By the time the second term of the year rolls around, chances are the ring booths are out trying to coax seniors into buying the ring that will supposedly help them remember the biggest year of their lives. Chances are though, the ring will be worn for a few months and then will make its way into a jewelry box for the rest of its days. Sure, senior rings are great. They’re shiny, have your name and birthstone and some even have personal designs. The thing is, once you leave school you’re going to have so much more going on in your life that you’re going to be ready to step away from your school days and the big ring that’s meant to remind you of them. Whether you’re heading to college, graduate school, or the work force, the ring is going to be triumphed by the new things going on, so you will get very little use out of it. So, instead of spending hundreds on something like this you can easily take the money and apply it to something that will actually be useful in the future.

3. Print Out Invites
There’s a lot of companies that will claim to offer you great deals on invitations for your graduation. Although some may be tempting, nothing will save you as much money as printing out your own personal graduation invitations. You can easily find a simple template to work with that can help you provide all of the information needed so people will know when and where the big event is happening. The best thing about printing out your own invites is you can add a whole lot of customization to make the invitation suit your personality. Most templates easily allow you to add photographs, which is the perfect way to show off your new graduation photos. You can also add what you majored in, future goals, GPA, your clubs and interest and any other information you want to share with the world. When you’re satisfied you can email the invites to save even more money. However, if you want a tangible copy then you can print on high gloss paper or send them to your local department store to printed for way less than you’d pay a company.

4. Graduation Photography
One of the biggest expenditures for graduation is certainly the photography session. Most high schools will have a session prepared during the school hours. However, even though this is provided by the school, ordering your photos can be a ridiculously high price. Some schools will force you to bring your photos in too, which hiring a professional could also mean you’re going to end up paying way too much for photos. It doesn’t matter if you’re finishing up high school or graduate school as the photos for this occasion will help you remember just where you were when you met the accomplishment. This is why you should always try to hire someone you trust for the photos. You can easily pick a student willing to do the photography at a low cost. This won’t just help you, but will give them job experience they need. You may even ask a family member to do the photos for you if you have a good camera. These options will save you the most money on your senior photos, but if you have to go professional make sure to call around and ask about discounts, pricing and the smallest package you can order. After all, you can always get copy of the pictures to share later on.

5. Home Celebration
It is pretty tempting to want to put a lot of money into a congratulation party, especially if you’re a parent celebrating your child’s success. Big parties can be a huge financial burden though. Instead, try to invite close family and friends to a celebration at your own home. This will allow everyone to relax in a comfortable environment so you can actually enjoy one another’s company. This is also a great way to send off the student to college, as the student might not have another chance to see a lot of the people before moving out. You can easily create a few appetizers and drinks at a decent price or have people bring in their own potluck dishes to help save on money. You can also decorate the home for a party inexpensively as there are many party stores that sell graduation banners and other décor items at a remarkably cheap price.

6. Go Casual
A lot of people might be tempted to buy an expensive dress or suit to wear underneath their robes. This can really run you a lot of money for absolutely no reason at all. Most of the gowns will show very little of your clothing so there is no reason to find something expensive to wear to an event. Usually, you can only see a small portion of your legs in the robes so a suitable pair of pants of a dress is perfectly fine to wear underneath the robes. Of course, you’re going to be sitting for a very long time, especially if you go to a larger school, so make sure you choose something that is going to be comfortable to wear for a few hours. You may also want to consider the temperature when you choose what to wear. If your graduation is outdoor then it might be wise to wear light clothing with short sleeves. You may even be able to get away with a t-shirt and shorts depending on the guidelines of the school and how much the robe actually covers. The best thing you can do is decide what to wear after you try on your gown.

7. Forget Pricey Frames
If you’re graduation from college then chances are your school probably wants to you to spend some money to get your degree framed. A lot of schools will send out paperwork with this option as soon as you submit the request for graduation. Paying for the pricey frame can be way out of the budget though and a lot of times well over priced. There’s a lot of framing companies that can do the same job for a whole lot less, so it is important you shop around before you sign off on any framework through the school. Of course, when it comes to a degree you could always opt for a simple frame. This will allow you to switch the frame whenever you change décor and it shouldn’t cost you more than $50 to get the item framed. One of the best things about waiting for the framing is you get a bit more control over how the degree is framed. You can even choose the special mats that accent your degree, so it is more appealing to the eye.

8. Host a Party with Friends
It’s fairly common to want to throw a party to celebrate your success, but having the money to throw the shindig of your dreams isn’t always easy to come by. Of course, if you have friends who have also graduated then you may want to split up the cost to throw the party you want. The more friends you have to share the cost, the more money you’ll end up saving on the party, which might come in handy when you have to pay bills. Make sure you know the friends are reliable and that you consider their wants too when planning. This will leave to an epic party that will last in your memories for years to come. Planning a party with friends also means you won’t have to schedule parties around each other, which is just an added bonus.

9. Tickets
Graduates tend to be given a few seats for their family at graduation, however if you plan on having a lot of people you’ll end up paying extra for the seats. Instead of buying your tickets ahead of time you may want to simply buy for the immediate family first. This will ensure they get their seats at a good price. A lot of the time when students buy tickets in bulk relatives tend not to make it to the ceremony for one reason or another. This leaves extra tickets that won’t get used, so the money is entirely wasted. The best thing to do is to send out a low invite list as this will save on money entirely and will guarantee the seats to other graduates family and friends.

10. Look for Sales
You might not believe it but shopping for graduation sales can save on this expenditure. You should be able to find a discount for everything from the cap and gown to the restaurant you choose to celebrate at. The key is to call around and ask people for deals, as they may not be in the papers or even listed on the site. This might take a little extra work, but when you find the perfect restaurant at a discount and your cap and gown for a shocking low price, you’ll know it all paid off. You can even work to find the perfect party supplies at a graduates discount. So, use you shopping skills to find the best deals!

Graduation is an exciting filled with uncertainties. The last thing you need to worry about is how to fund your achievement. With these ten tips you should be well on your way to feeling the beauty of your success while getting the celebration you deserve. Now, you can concentrate on what the future will bring next, rather than the bill for your graduation supplies.

With the Stanley Cup right around the corner it may be time to consider how much money you have to put into your love of hockey this year. Although it is a fantastic and entertaining sport, hockey can become a huge money pit if you’re not careful about what you’re spending. From major equipment expenses to checking out your favorite teams live, you can really be hurting after the season is over. With a few simple tricks of the game you should be able to enjoy this hockey season without feel the icy cold burden of the price. This season there will be fewer penalty shots on your budget and more power plays to keep you and your family excited about the upcoming games.

1. Starter Kits
If you have a child that is just starting to get the hockey bug then a starter kit might be the best way to help cut down on spending. Starter kits usually have a discounted price on each of the items so you won’t spend as much as you would buying each thing your child needs seperatley. Most starter kits come in an age appropriate size, so you may want to purchase the kit based on what is going to give your child the maximum amount of time with kit. If you have more than one child then they can easily share a starter kit as it usually comes with more than one stick. You may end up buying a couple of extra pieces, but it will still save you a whole lot of money. As your hockey player grows older or wears down some of the items you can easily replace them one by one without having to worry about everything going bad at the same time. You can even pass the kit down to young players when your hockey star has outgrown the kit.

2. Second Hand Equipment
When it comes to supplying the hocket players in your family with the appropriate equipment it may be a wise choice to stick to the used equipment. This is especially important if you have younger players who are in the midst of growth spurts. You should be able to find decent padding, hockey sticks and skates in your favorite sporting goods store. These stores usually have a special used section that contain plenty of children’s sporting equipment. Of course, older players can also find some incredibly finds as well. This can be one of the best places to find reliable padding, especially since the store must go over each item that is turned in for quality. Another great way to find cheap equipment is to check out your local thrift stores. If your community has a strong community based around hockey then you should be able to find some amazing items. You may also want to check out yard sales for items that will suit your needs.

3. Season Pass
Whether your into the major leagues, minor leagues, college or peewee games you should be able to get more out of your money by buying a season pass. Many people who love to frequent the games greatly benefit from having a pass that will get them into any game they want to see. The best thing about the season pass if you don’t have to spend big bucks to get into the highest quality seats. In fact, you can easily find amazing seats in a moderately priced area, which will really keep you satisfied all season. If you still think a season pass might be a bit too much for your family then you could always consider buying a pass and sharing it with another family. This will allow you to split the cost evenly and you won’t have to feel obligated to go to every single game of the season. You may have to spend some time working on a schedule for the passes, but it will certainly cut down on your hockey expenses before the end of the day.

4. Skip the Pros
One of the major things that really destroys the budget it the fact that many people feel the need to check out the professional games as much as possible. This can be a huge mistake on your part as major league prices can really cost a lot depending on the team you adore. Instead of spending money on the majors you can easily spend half of the price to check out a minor league or college level game. These games hold just as much action and could give you a glimpse of some of the players that might be in the majors in a year or two. If the price tag is still a bit too much for you then check out local pee wee league every once in awhile. You’ll love watching the kids learn their skill while witnessing them improve throughout the season. You may also run across a friendly game on the street or local ice rink that might suit your need for the hockey buzz.

5. Say No to Packages
A lot of cable companies might try to lure you into one of their hockey packages which could add up for $50 a month to your cable bill! This is an unacceptable price for many, especially if you’re on a tight budget. Instead of buying into the package try to find a location where you can watch the games. There’s many different sports bars and restaurants that will allow you to have a drink, or enjoy some appetizers while enjoying the entire game. You may also want to ask around and see which friends have the game playing with their playing company. Of course, if you really want to get the package then you might want to ask friends to help chip in for the extra price. Make sure you throw a party every time there is a game though and enjoy the extra company while you cheer on your team. On the other hand, you should be able to find most games online, so don’t fret if you can’t find the game on your cable.

6. Fan Clothes
When it comes to supporting your favorite team or player there’s nothing quite as appealing as fan clothing. From t-shirts and jersey to hoodies and socks, there’s certainly a whole lot you can choose from to show off your own style while supporting your team. Of course, these items often come for a pretty high price which doesn’t always suit the household budget. There are a few ways to get some of the items you need at a price that won’t make you feel like you’ve been left in the penalty box. A lot of the major retailers for your team will often have sales on items, especially if there is a major holiday or the team is out of the play off. A lot of clothes will also make it onto the clearance rack, especially if they have been on the label for a long time or no one seems to be buying them. Another way to show off your pride at a very low price is to make your own fan clothing. You can gather t-shirts with your teams colors and use shirt paint to create incredible designs that will really make your team proud to have you as a fan.

7. Street Hockey
As the weather heats many of the ice rinks are out of commission, which means you might have to pay a whole lot to rent out a rink for your team. Instead of showing off your skills on the ice you can easily take up a new hobby by taking the game to the street. Street hockey is certainly a cheaper way to enjoy playing your favorite sport. It requires less equipment and can be played with or without rollerblades, which adds to the savings even more. The best thing about street hockey is you can often substitute a lot of the supplies for common items at home. For instance, you can create a cheap and efficient goal using cones, baseball bases, or anything you can think of to mark off the area. Another great substitute is replacing the hockey ball or roller puck with a simple tennis ball or other common ball. Of course, one of the best money saving qualities of street hockey is it can be played almost anywhere for free.

8. Skates
Skates can be a tricky part of your budget for hockety. If you’re an adult that tends to play hockey often then you many want to consider splurging a little and buying a more expensive pair. This will ensure that your skates actually do last longer so you don’t have to keep buying cheap pairs to as a replacement. The only thing you may have to replace from time to time is the blade. Of course, buying skates for children is an entirely different story. Most kids outgrow shoes faster than they do just about anything else. This can be a huge problem when it comes to buying skates as they tend to be pricer than shoes. Instead of buying your child an expensive pair then you may want to buy one of the cheaper brands. You may also want to consider buying the skates a size or two bigger. This gap can easily be filled with thick socks and will ensure your child’s skates don’t end up in the donation pile within a month.

9. Join a League
If you’re trying to find the cheapest way to enjoy some hockey action then you may want to consider choosing a league to join. Leagues will instantly give you a team which will work as a great support system when it comes to improving your skills and pushing your game a little further. With a league you also won’t have to deal with finding a location to play, buying padding and other equipment as well as locating people to play with. This can all be pretty pricey if you’re not careful. Most leagues will charge a small dues each month, but it will certainly cut down on the amount you spend without the league. Children will also grow into the sport easier when they are placed in a league as it will teach them sportsmanship as well many of the skills they need to become the player they’re capable of becoming.

10. Carpool
When it comes to hockey, walking tends not to be a realistic option in the means of transformation. You also might not be able to take public transportation because of the heavy equipment you’ll have to lug around from place to place. One great way to relieve the pressure of transportation is to carpool with your teammates. Carpooling allows everyone to have a reliable way to games without forcing everyone to spend their excess money on gas. Of course, you may want to find the player with the biggest vehicle to get everyone to the game, but simply chipping in for gas won’t leave your pockets empty. This is also a great way to boost morale, especially for kids going to their first season of hockey. If you just plan on attending games then you may want to stick to the carpool rule, especially if you attend games often or games out of town. You’ll even get to enjoy the buzz of having companions cheering with you as you head home from a victorious game.

Hockey is a great way to burn off some of those winter calories. Although the world is warming up around us and the playoffs are rapidly approaching, you’ll still be able to enjoy the exciting savings these tips offer. So get ready to cheer on your favorite team without stressing up the money.

Mother’s Day is the one day out of the year where you get to celebrate all those amazing things your mother does for you. From childhood memories to preparing your favorite meal you certainly have a lot to thank Mom for. This can be a huge challenge when the bid day comes up and you don’t have a whole lot of spare cash to spend on her. The good thing about mothers is they tend not to care the price of their gift as there is more heart to be seen in the items that are presented on this day. With these few tips you’ll be able to purchase or make the perfect Mother’s Day gift for your precious mom. So, stop worrying about how you’re going to manage this holiday and enjoy the look on mom’s face when you present your thoughtful gift.

1. Pottery
When it comes to showing off your creative know how for mom, there’s nothing quite as fun as making some pottery. Mom’s usually have a lot of use for items like cookie jars, change plates, cooking trays and platters as well as mugs. These are all fairly easy items to make with pottery. You can easily by a cheap clay set or head to a shop to get your creation made and fired up before the big day. Most pottery shops will add the price of the clay, firing and paints for a low fee so you won’t have to worry about spending more on making your item than buying one. Making the item yourself also allows you to add that extra flair your mom will love. Try using her favorite colors, painting her favorite flowers or even add a special message. If you really want to make mom excited about the gift then have the grandkids work on a project of their own, or add their hand prints to your own project.

2. Flowers
The one gift that never seems to get old is flowers. They’re fresh and beautiful and brighten up the house, which is why moms love getting them on their special day. Purchasing flowers can be a huge financial burden though, especially if you wait until the last minute to choose yours. Instead of going to a local store or ordering online, try picking your own bouquet from your garden or a community field. This will allow you to have creative control over your bouquet so you can cater it to your mother’s favorite flowers. If you don’t have an area where you can pick your own flowers then you may want to shop the clearanced flowers in your local store. These flowers are usually about to be thrown out, but will still last several days with the proper amount of water and special food packet. Of course, no bouquet would be complete without a special vase. You can easily fine a cheap vase at a department or discount store that can be spruced up with ribbons and other décor that will impress mom.

3. Digital Picture Frame
Although a digital picture frame isn’t an option to make yourself, you can still buy one for fairly cheap. Of course, it isn’t the frame that is the true gift! You can easily fill this frame with pictures of you family that mom will cherish every time she seems them. If you want to step things up a notch you can easily take each of your photographs into a photo editior to make them even more charming. Try adding cute phrases, photo borders or simply taking out red eye or other flaws in the image. If you’re really in the mood to get crafty then try decorating the frame to add some special character. You can easily add clipart inspired by mom’s interests or simply transform the frame into mom’s favorite color.

4. Food
Everyone loves to eat, so consider this when you plan out mom’s special day. One of the best things you can give her is her favorite meal. Ask around to see what would be the best surprise for mom on her big day and then show up at her house with the ingredients. If you really want to make her feel special then you may consider asking her for some help prepping her meal. A lot of mom’s will love spending time in the kitchen with you and you may learn something from her in the process. If you’re not really into making a full meal then you might want to consider some of mom’s favorite baked treats. Try baking her favorite cake from scratch or create an array of brownies, cookies or muffins that will satisfy her sweet tooth.

5. Coffee/Tea Date
One of the most special things you can do for your mom is take her out to her favorite cafe for a cup of coffee or tea. This will give the two of you ample time to spend some quality time with one another that you might not get on a regular basis. The cafe is the perfect place to share life events and catch up on gossip and the delicious beverage is just an added bonus. This excursion shouldn’t take a whole lot out of your budget either, especially if you go to a relaxed non-chain cafe. If mom doesn’t really like going to cafes then bring the cafe to her. Brew her a nice cup of coffee or tea and maybe bring along some sweet pastries. You’ll still be able to sit and relax without worrying about crowds or feeling rushed.

6. Bath Set
Nothing says appreciation like giving mom a gift that will encourage her to find some relaxation. There’s a wide selection of bath sets available and most come at a price that will impress even the most frugal of shoppers. If you’re looking to impress mom then try to figure out which scent is her favorite and order it for her. You can choose between sets that are as simple as a soap variation to sets that have lotion, bath beads and a wide variety of other soothing materials. Of course, you could always get crafty and create the soaps yourself. You can buy a cheap soap set and create scents that your mom can absolutely look. You may even want to make the soap into different soaps that will suit mom. To really mix things up you may want to make your own scented candle to add to the gift. When you’re all finished put everything in a cute basket and wrap it up. Mom will be so impressed with your work she will have to take some time for herself.

7. Clean Up
Mom did just about everything for you as you when you were growing up, so make sure to give a little back this year. Instead of giving mom a pricey gift trying utilizing some manual labor to make her day incredible. You can easily head to mom’s house on the big day and take over all of the chores. Make sure to leave the home sparkling clean so mom can have a few days to relax before her work begins again. If you don’t want to do all of the work on the same day then try to come up with a coupon book. This will allow mom to cash in on a series of jobs throughout the year. This will ensure she will feel the love whenever she needs a little extra help around the house. If you have children than you can add them in on the project to, using age appropriate coupons that will certainly make grandma smile.

8. Gardening Supplies
If your mom is a big fan of gardening then you may want to show her gardening supplies a little love. An upgrade for mom’s gardening tools shouldn’t cost you a whole lot of money and will give you a fun activity to partake in while the weather allows. You should be able to find gardening tools at a moderate price, which will definitely suit your budget in comparison to the price of other trendy gifts. If your mom doesn’t need any tools then you may want to consider getting her a custom apron or gloves that will make her feel incredibly special every time she spends some time in the harden. You could also opt for buying her some new flowers, bulbs or seeds to help further her garden along. If you’re really into making her day then you can always spend some time gardening with mom so she can enjoy her new gift.

9. Sew It
Crafters that are skilled with a needle and thread may enjoy working on a special project for mom. There’s a lot of different quilts, doilies and other sewing projects that will impress mom and make her feel loved. One great idea is to make a quilt with some of you and your siblings favorite clothes growing up. If you have children then you may want to add in your childrens clothing too as well as your nieces and nephews. A fantastic way to impress mom is to iron on photos of her family so she can see her favorite people every day of the year. Your mom may even tear up when she sees your beautiful quilt. Another great craft is to make mom her own special pillow. You can create a body pillow or simple throw pillow that will ensure mom is comfortable every day. One of the best things you can do to make the pillow special is sew mom’s name onto it as well as her favorite flowers.

10. Cards
Cards are one of the best ways to express the way you feel about your mother. There’s a lot of different cards you can choose from at a department store or specialty shop but many will cost you a whole lot of money. Instead of letting others express their feelings for you you could easily create your own card from scratch. One way to show how much you love mom is to put together a beautiful card with some of your favorite crafting papers. From scrapbook papers to construction paper there’s a whole lot of creativity you can put into the card. Try adding some family photos, pictures of items mom loves or simple drawings you create yourself. To really make things even more beautiful you can add in a poem or special message that will make mom feel loved. If you aren’t feeling creative then there’s plenty of print out cards you can get from the internet. Find the perfect one for mom, print it out and add some special touches to make it even more incredible.

Your mom plays an important role in your life so make sure you treat her well on her favorite day. With these few tips you should be able to create mom a few masterpieces that not only save you money but make her feel like the most loved woman in the world. After all, the best gift you can give mom is to appreciate her and with these gifts she will know just how much effort you put into this task.

We all know that cooking can easily be more efficient with the right types of tools to guide the way. Unfortunately, any chef knows that finding the right tools for the job can really make a huge dent in the family budget, which often makes buying what you want impossible. There’s a few ways you can make the most out of your cookware without having to spend money to create the perfect tools that are not only presentable but efficient when needed. Now, you can transform your kitchen into your own personal art studio as you create masterpieces that will certainly have the household craving your home cooking more than they do fast food and evenings out.

1. Save Aluminum Cookware
We all have that unsightly cookware we’re slightly embarrassed of due to the stains that have accumulated over the years. When it comes to aluminum cookware there’s usually very few ways to avoid this aging process apart from getting rid of the old to make room for the new. This can be a costly mistake though as those aluminum pans can be one of your biggest assets in the kitchen. Instead of tossing out the old try giving it a make over with a few quick cleaning tips. For many of these pans you can simply placing applesauce or tomato slices on the pan. Once the pan is coated turn on the burner or stick it in a hot oven. The acids from these foods will knock out stains quickly and you’ll have pans your happy to present to the world again. Another quick tip is to clean the pans with baking soda. This material has amazing cleaning priorities and will ensure you won’t have to mess with scrubbing again. Another way to avoid the stains, when you do buy new pans, is to keep them out of the dishwasher. Wash them thoroughly by hand and dry them right away for results that will last years.

2. Know Your Needs
When it comes to shopping for new pots and pans it is incredibly important to know what you need out of a pan. There’s a lot of different types of pans on the market for a reason, so a little research on your part is certainly in order. If you’re a beginner you may want to avoid pots and pans that are copper based as you may find your food sticking or being ruined while working with these advanced pans. Of course, if you do find yourself getting bored on the non-stick pans then you may want to consider copper as it conducts heat fast and could be just what you need to develop your skills. Cast iron skillets are great for household chefs who love to work a bit slower in the kitchen. These pans heat up slowly, but work great for making foods that need a little extra seasoning. One of the easiest bets is to stick with pots and pans that have Teflon. They’re not only a cinch to clean, but they will make cooking in a hurry a definite possibility.

3. Go Green
A lot of people are trying to make their kitchen a greener place. If this is the case in your home then you may want to try out some of the green friendly brands on the market. Most retailers should carry these amazing pans, but if you’re unsure what you’re looking for make sure to ask before you make any decisions. Green pans are a great way to cut down on your energy use. They tend to heat up quickly and cook faster without actually burning the food. This not only cuts down on the gas and/or electric you use, but will help prevent food wastage in the home. These pots and pans use a Teflon like substance that is incredibly ease to clean up too, so you won’t have to worry about running water over them for too long at all. One of the best things about the pan is they’re made of materials that are safe to use in the home and won’t harm the environment if they are actually discarded in the future.

4. Buy What You Need
One of the major problems with shopping for pots and pans is most people believe they need to have a matching set. This can be a terrible way to waste money if you aren’t careful. You should usually only buy a new pot or pan if there is something wrong with the one you have, which eliminates the entire process of buying a few set of cookware. Another problem many face is the need to match all of their cookware. You may find, through the years, that some pots and pans from one brand are better than others. This may leave you with a sauce pan from one brand and a classic skillet from another. This is a great way to keep track of the way you spend money on cooking ware though. The separate pieces will give you more freedom when shopping for replacement and you’ll never have to deal with the disappointment of buying a full set that you hate. It is also easier to upgrade your cookware piece by piece which will help you keep your monthly family budget in check.

5. Read Reviews
Sometimes you may feel a little lost when you go in to purchase cookware. There’s a whole lot of selection out there to choose from which means a lot of thinking on your part. Although you may, at first, feel tempted to go straight for the celebrity name brand you enjoy the most, you may want to take a step back and think about what the set actually gives you. This is where the internet will play an important part in your search for new cookware. Try looking on different sites for the product you’re interest in. There should be several reviews on the product, especially if it is one of the more popular brands. Make sure to read the longer reviews carefully as these will provide you with the most useful information. You may even want to take notes based on the reviews on different sites. After you’ve done your research then you’ll already be set to buy as you’ll already know where you can buy what you’re looking for at the cheapest price.

6. Splurge
Although it might not be a common practice to splurge when it comes to saving money, it is one of the best things you can do with your pots and pans. If you’re absolutely certain there is a great set out there for you then you should probably buy it. Even though this might be a bigger expense than you’d like to pay you’ll end up saving money in the long run. There are many reasons for this though. One of the main reasons is because buying an expensive set almost guarantees you that you’ll end up keeping the set for much longer. The pots and pans are more durable and will stand up to cooking and cleaning for years to come. Another major reason is you’ll actually enjoy cooking with them. Your food will taste better and you’ll feel more confident as a chef, which means you’ll want to explore more with different foods. With your love of cooking at its peak you’ll end up spending less money on going out which will help out the family budget big time.

7. Multipurpose Pieces
Purchasing cookware can be a pretty exhilarating experience if you know exactly what you’re looking for. One way to really max out the savings on cookware is to look for pieces that can be used for many different purchases. There’s a lot of reasons why a pot or pan should be able to hold up more than one job in the kitchen. One major reason is the fact that the kitchen can be a pretty busy place, so you need a pan that can hold up to cooking on the burner without being ruined by be put in the oven later on. This can be important to anyone cooking a big meal because no one wants their hard work to get cold while everything else is cooking. Another reason is to help keep the budget down while raising the functionality of your kitchen. A piece that can boil water one day and be used to a casserole the next is the perfect piece for a household looking to save money and time with their cookware.

8. Stick to Plastic
Your kitchen utensils can play a huge part in the health of your pots and pans. Although it might seems more efficient to use metal utensils while you cook this could be one of the fastest ways to destroy the insides of your pots and pans. The metal pieces are a lot more abrasive to pots and pans that utilize Teflon or other non-stick surfaces. Instead of opting for the more expensive metal pieces you can easily replace them with plastic. Plastics are a lot nicer on the inside of your pots and pans and will keep them from getting scratched and useless as quickly. Although plastics do have more of a potential to melt or break than metal utensils they are a whole lot easier and cheaper to replace than the pots and pans you spend so much money on.

9. Think Used
One of the cheapest ways to avoid spending a whole lot of money is to consider getting a used set of pots and pans. A lot of the time family will be more than happy to pass over their pots and pans when they decided to upgrade, so you may want to listen to see if anyone you know if planning on throwing out their old set. If this isn’t the case then there’s still a good chance you can find a good set at a local thrift store. Some people will donate full sets if you enjoy having all the same brand of cookware. However, you may have the most luck picking and choosing what you want to purchase in these locations. Most cookware stays in great shape for some time and the purchases you make at the thrift store could help keep your kitchen running smoothly until you decide to upgrade.

10. Shop Sales
The best way to get exactly what you want out of your cookware is to shop the sales. Cookware is one of the more popular items to go on sale so you shouldn’t have to wait very long to enjoy the set of pots and pans you’ve had your eye on. One of the best ways to keep track of sales is to download a shopping app that will update you whenever your favorite stores have a sale. You may also want to frequent stores that have your item to see if you happen upon a sale. Another simple way is to keep an eye out for coupons that could save you so much on your items. With a little patience and research you’ll have the set you’ve always wanted at a price you can afford in no time.

Your cookware plays an important role in the way your household functions which is why you should have just what you want to cook with. With these tips you should be able to find a way to find the perfect balance of cookware to make your daily meals a real treat. Now, your family will have nothing but compliments for your meals which will really make your job even more rewarding.

Every year juniors and seniors prepare to make to enjoy one of their dances of the year and for some their educational career. For many parents, prom can be the thing of nightmares. With outfits, expensive tickets and transportation to think of this once a year dance can be a financial crisis. There are many ways to get around the classic prom problems though. With a little know how your child’s prom expenses will dwindle down to very little so you can actually enjoy this huge milestone in their life. After all, prom is one of the last moments you’ll get to share with your child before it is time for them to make the transition from high school student to college scholar. Plus, there’s nothing like seeing a smile on your kid’s face, especially when prom turned out just how they always dreamed it would.

1. Attire
Choosing the best dress or tuxedo for the prom can be one of the most difficult and priciest aspect of going to prom. There’s a lot of different styles to choose from which makes it really difficult to find what you need and want at a price that is affordable. Luckily, there’s many ways to get your attire at a price that won’t leave you hurting. In many communities there is an organization that will help students get their prom attire for free. These tuxes and dresses are typically used, but tend to be in excellent shape. You can also donate your old formal ware to these organizations so other people can be helped as well. If this isn’t a possibility in your area then you may want to check out some second hand stores to see what they have to offer. Many have a great selection and with a few alterations you can look chic for your big dance. You could also talk to friends and relatives about borrowing something from them which will save you even more money. Another huge way to save is to simply rent out the outfit. You can get a wide selection of styles at an affordable price and you won’t have to worry about clearing closet space for something you’re never going to wear again.

2. Beauty Schools
Most girls really want the royal treatment when it comes to getting ready for prom. This is great for the experience, but can be a terrible expenditure that can easily be avoided. From waxings, manicures, make up and hair styling your prom princess can get just about everything done at a beauty school. These schools are designed so students can get plenty of practice before they decide to take their qualifying exams. Although you might feel nervous about a student doing your hair you will certainly feel relieved once you sit in the styling chair. Most students are great with these types of tasks and are closely watched by instructors to ensure your hair won’t be messed up. You’ll end up getting the entire makeover for less than you would pay for one item in a regular salon. The best thing is you’ll be helping out a student who will be incredibly excited to make you look your best for such a memorable occasion.

3. Photography
Everyone wants to capture this major milestone in life, but sometimes it isn’t always plausible to purchase the portraits actually taken at the prom. These packages are usually over priced and tend to be a bit bland as the photographer is working more on an assembly line method than a personal method. Instead of opting to buy these photographs you may want to ask a student photographer to help you out. This will not only help out the student with practice and job experience, but will ensure you get what you need at a lower price. Of course, if you do have photographer friends you may want to ask them first because you might get a better deal out of it. If you’ve already hired a photographer for senior photos then you may want to ask if you can combine the senior photo package to include a few shots of your child and their prom date. The photographer might charge a bit extra for this, but it will still be cheaper than the package deals done at the school.

4. Carpool
Getting your child to the prom can be a major cost in itself. Most students don’t simply want a ride with parents and many of them don’t have gas money to make the trip themselves. For some students, a limo is the absolute best way to go, but this could cost the student and parents hundreds of dollars. If your child can’t go without the limo experience then try to encourage your child to get a group together to carpool. Each student could chip in for the limo so the cost is less burdensome. You could also only rent the limo out for an hour. This will give the students ample time to get from their pick up location to the school dance in style. Of course, if the limo isn’t on the must have list then you may want to ask your child to carpool with other students. Each student could chip in for the price of gas so getting to their destination and after parties could be exceptionally cheap.

5. Accessories
A lot of girls believe that the accessories make the dress, which could lead to an extra bill you’re not ready to pay for. Accessories can be an important part of the prom experience but you don’t have to go overboard when it comes to buying new things. In fact, if you can avoid buying new accessories you should. Try going through your jewelry collection to see if there is actually anything that will look great with your dress. If there isn’t then you may want to ask friends and family if they have anything you can borrow. Between what you already own and what you’ve borrowed you should be able to accessorize perfectly. However, if you feel you absolutely must have something new for the dance then try to get the purchase to a maximum of one new piece. This will give you a keepsake without spending a lot. You may also want to consider shopping at thrift store for some cheap vintage jewelry you’ll love. There are also many discount jewelry stores that can provide you with a great match for your dress.

6. Shoes
Shoes can really make or break an outfit. They can also bring up your total prom cost more than a hundred dollars if you’re not careful. There are a few ways to get rid of the shoe jitters though. If you already plan on going to prom in a floor length gown then there’s no reason to worry about the type of shoes you wear anyway. Instead of spending a fortune on heels you won’t wear again try putting on some flats or sneakers that you’re comfortable dancing in. This way you won’t have to buy more shoes nor will you have to nurse blisters after the dance. If you tend to be on the alternative side you may want to consider wearing your favorite high tops or combat boots for a look that suits you more than the traditional prom attire. This will also save you a lot of money and might even make you feel comfortable during the dance. Of course, if you absolutely have to have a new pair of shoes then consider buying a cheap pair that look rather plain. You can easily had your own special touch to it using gems, lace and whatever else you can think of. This will really draw people to your style and will provide you with a look no one else can copy.

7. After Party
Most students want a little more out of their night at the prom. Usually there’s a few students willing to hosts party afterward, but you may want to consider your school’s activities first. A lot of schools will actually host their own after party that students can actually spend the night at. This party tends to be well supervised and is one of the cheapest ways to keep kids entertained after the dance. If you do plan on hosting a get together for your student then try to keep it simple. You may want to host a small barbeque, but remember to consider the neighbors when you plan this out. You could also host a movie night for the teens so they can easily cool down from dancing and relax in their pajamas. Try renting a few top movies from a cheap venue or pop in a few classics that the kids grew up with.

8. Dining Out
Dancing can really work up a superb appetite which is probably why so many students flock to restaurant after the big dance. The only problem is most of the restaurants that are still open can really cost a fortune. A lot of students tend to one to try out a fancy restaurant after the dance anyway, but there are many ways to combat the high prices. You may want to call around and see if any of the local businesses are offering prom night specials. This is usually more likely to happen in smaller communities, but there is no harm in asking. You may also want to direct your student to diners that you know will be open and won’t cost a fortune. Many have extraordinary deals, such as Denny’s which will serve up some excellent food for only $2. You might also talk to your student about skipping dinner. Many proms are actually serving meals now which can fill your student up enough. Instead of the whole dining out experience it might be fun for students to simply go out for ice cream afterward.

9. Groupons
As prom slowly begins to inch nearer you may want to consider checking out Groupons in your local area. You might be surprised as to how many of these can be worked around the prom experience, so don’t pass up some of the good ones because you’re looking for specific prom groupons. For instance, there are many groupons available for spa days which could help pamper your future prom queen enough to avoid spending a ton of money at the salon before the big day. You may also find a groupon for shopping which could help with the dress, shoes and other must have accessories. Some of the more popular things to look at may be places to dine out as a groupon will help everyone at the table save big on the price of their meal after the dance.

10. Flowers
Flowers can be a last minute thing for most prom goers, especially the guys. There’s a lot of ways to get your date a bouquet without spending a lot though. Try shopping the day of prom and get the flowers that are clearanced. They’ll look great for prom photos and will appease your date even though they may not last as long afterward. You might consider picking your own as a romantic gesture that will pay off big. There’s also the option of creating your own out of fabric which is simple with internet tutorials and makes a great keepsake. If you’re into the duct tape prom craze then this may be even easier and will work great as a special pin for the tux as well as a corsage for your date.

When it comes to prom the hardest part should be awaiting the anticipation of the big dance. With these simple prom tips you’ll find your student will get more out of their prom without forcing you to pay even more money. You’ll relish in your child’s milestone for years to come while they relive the memory to their children.

Often times, Arbor Day tends to be a forgotten holiday that is over shadowed by the Easter rush and financial crisis. A lot of people don’t realize the holiday is upon them and many just don’t know what to do to celebrate. For others, the financial burden of Easter tends to take away from the holiday. There are many ways you can enjoy this amazing holiday without having to worry about the cost. With Arbor Day the holiday tends to be more about what you can do for your environment, rather than how you can spend money to celebrate. With these simple tips and suggestions Arbor Day might become one of your favorite holidays to celebrate and won’t cost you a thing! In fact, you might even get a little money back for your celebration, which will help you always remember this important day.

1. Plant a Tree
One of the greatest things you and your family can do on Arbor Day is plant a tree. There’s a lot of cheap trees available in local stores, but if you’re looking to save even more money you can apply for a free tree from many online sources. You will usually asked to pay shipping, but other than your free tree will arrive ready to be planted. Before planting make sure you look at your home’s plans so you the roots of your tree won’t interfere with the home’s pipes. You may also consider a good place for the tree to provide shade which will help cut down on your cooling costs as the tree begins to grow. Of course, another great choice is to pick a fruit tree which could help you cut down on your home’s grocery bill slightly. Of course, if you live in an area that won’t allow you to plant a tree then you might also consider asking around the neighborhood to see if anyone has a place where you can plant. There may also be an organization that plants trees around the community, which could be a lot of fun to volunteer for.

2. Pick Up Garbage
Unfortunately, trash tends to build up all over the place even when communities have strong littering rules. One way to help out the planet is to take the family to your favorite park and have them pick up the garbage in the area. This will ensure you leave your community looking great and your planet even healthier. Of course, if you don’t really know where to begin then you should always talk to your community center about your activity. Sometimes they will enlist you in a group that does the cleaning on a regular basis, or they will point you to an age appropriate location for cleaning. You may end up in a park outside of your area, or cleaning at your children’s school. Either way you can always use your volunteer time on your taxes for next year, which could help you save money. If you don’t have a lot of extra time though you can always take the kids out to clean up garbage in your own yard and around the neighborhood. Everyone will appreciate your area and you’ll leave your home looking incredible.

3. Garden for Neighbors
We all tend to get a bit busy with life which could have an adverse effect on our lawns and gardens. One way to help out this Arbor day is to take some time out of your day to garden in your own lawn. Try pruning your plants and pulling weeds to leave the home looking nicer and so your plants can grow a bit healthier. Once you’ve worked out your own yard trying asking around the neighborhood to see if anyone else needs help. You may want to go to neighbors who have a harder time getting out first. A lot of the time the elderly will have to pay for help to fix up their yards, so you will be doing them a huge favor by volunteering. You may also consider neighbors who tend to work a lot or have younger children in the home. Once you have asked around the neighborhood you could always branch off to the next block or head to the home’s of people you know need some extra help.

4. Hike
Nothing will show your appreciation for Mother Earth on Arbor Day quite like a hike. This is a great way to get out of the house for absolutely nothing on this important day. Try to find a trail you don’t often get to hike, or keep it casual and hike your favorite trail. You may even want to bring a camera along so you can capture some of the beautiful sights for a special Arbor Day art project later. If you’re bringing the kids along then come up with a scavenger hunt for them as it will keep them busy and will teach them more about the nature around them. You can also pack up a picnic to help make the day even more special. Make sure you pack natural foods like fruits and vegetables to increase your appreciate of nature.

5. Lights Out
Another great way to reduce your carbon footprint on this amazing day is to keep the lights out. Try having a no electricity day, which means unplugging your electronics and spending good old fashioned time with the family. You may want to bring out some board games or spend a lot more time outdoors with the kids. When it starts to get dark outside don’t turn on the lights. Instead, light a fire and spread candles out throughout the home so you can enjoy some quality time without modern conveniences. This will give you a lot of time to share stories, play games and enjoy one another’s company instead of worrying about email and other distracting things. You may even consider hitting the sack a bit early. Since summer is so close it doesn’t tend to get dark until around 8, which is a great time to tuck the kids in and enjoy catching up on a couple extra hours of sleep.

6. Recycle
One thing you can start this Arbor that would make a huge different to the planet is recycling. If you don’t already recycle you may be missing out on an awarding process that helps make this planet much better for everyone else. Recycling can be totally easy an all you have to do is use a separate trash can for papers, plastics and metals. This can be as simple as going to the store to get a new bin or simply leaving out a trash bag for your recycling. Try to get kids in on the task too as they can easily sort their food containers into the correct bin. If you aren’t already doing so then take in your cans and bottles to the recycling center in your neighborhood. You can easily get back a few dollars that can go for more groceries or other treats. When you’ve worked on your home’s recycling you may want to take the message to the neighborhood.

7. Don’t Drive
Cars are one of the biggest polluters on the planet which is why you should make a vow to give up your car for a day this Arbor Day. It might not be as easy as it sounds, but by the end of the day you may feel incredibly happy with your choice to do so. Instead of hopping in the car to go wherever you need consider how far away your destination is. If it isn’t too far then consider walking as this will help slow down your day which could add some relaxation to your life. If it is a bit further, or you need to get to the location faster than try taking a bicycle instead. This is a great workout and will help you enjoy traveling a little more. It may be even more fun if the entire family decided to go biking together. Of course, if you plan on traveling somewhere a bit further, or you don’t want to get sweaty before work then you may want to work out the public transportation schedule. This will ensure you’ll get to your destination without leaving a carbon footprint behind for the day. You’ll also save a little money on gas this week, which can’t hurt your budget.

8. Research
Instead of spending the day at home wondering what you can do to help out the planet try making a trip to your local library. Here you will be able to find ample resources on volunteer services as well as basic things you can do within the home to help out. You should be able to find plenty of books and pamphlets on the cause, but you may have to take to the internet to explore further. You don’t have to go to great lengths to help out though. Even the smallest actions can help cut down on the damage being done to the world. You may find that one simple way to help is to write to or email your local officials about problems within the community. These addresses will be available to you with basic research. You can even create mini projects for the kids that have them write to a congressman about a cause they feel strongly about.

9. Build a Birdhouse
Birds play a big part in the ecosystem, so help them out by creating a birdhouse for your front or backyard. Birdhouses follow simple designs so it should be easy for even the younger family members to get involved. In order to save on resources try to build the house out of scrap wood you find at home, or search through the scrap bins at your local lumber supply store. This will help cut down on the cost and the materials needed. Once you have your design built you can place it just about anywhere outside the home. A tree is one of the best places for it and may help protect the birds from cats in the neighborhood. You may also want to fill the home with bird seeds to help encourage the birds to spend time inside of it. The house will also provide some entertainment for the household as the birds discover their new home.

10. Watch Your Water
One major item we waste a lot of is water. This Arbor Day you may want to concentrate on reducing the amount you use so you can help out the community. In many communities there are already major limitations on water use, but you can go even further by helping the family understand how wasteful they can be. One way to cut down on your water use it to shut down the sprinklers. A quick spritz of the lawn when the sun has gone down can keep your lawn healthy without forcing you to use a whole lot of water. You can also set out a bucket to catch rain water which can be used to water your plants instead of using water from the hose. When you brush your teeth at night make sure to shut off the water between brushing and rinsing as this can be one of the biggest waste of all. You may also consider taking shorter showers or shutting on the water between soaping up and rinsing off.

Arbor Day can be a great day of celebration if you allow it to be. There’s plenty of exciting activities that will ensure your family willy learn a lot and have some fun without spending a penny. So, stop worrying about the excess cash you spent at Easter and concentrate on this wonderful holiday based around our beautiful world and everything in it! You’ll end up saving yourself some money as well as saving the planet!

It might not seem like a big deal in the scheme of things, but our home’s lighting plays a major role in how comfortable we feel in our homes. There’s no wonder why people will actually spend thousands of dollars on lighting each and every year. From lamps to the electricity bill, there’s always some form of payment for the way we choose to light our homes. There are many ways to cut down on the cost of lighting though. Even if it means utilizing natural light or saying no to that high priced lamp in the department store, you will love the amount of money you saved on lighting at the end of the year. With these tips you’ll learn to bask in your home’s light without letting the price tag make you feel gloomy.

1. Solar Lamps
In today’s high tech society you may be surprised as to how many solar lamps you can purchase at a surprisingly low price. Recently, there has been many of these amazing lamps released into the market, which make them easier for the everyday person to purchase. You can even purchase a small variation of the solar lamp at local dollar stores. These lamps need light during the day to charge up, but will help provide you with ample light at night without forcing you to use even more electricity. The smaller solar lamps are the perfect night light for children who don’t want to sleep in complete darkness. Apart from helping you save on some money, the lamps are better for the environment which helps the rest of the world. Solar lamps come in an assortment of designs and are improved often so you may really enjoy utilizing this form of lighting.

2. Mark Down Lamps
One of the major problems when it comes to lamps is the paying the high price for the fashionable styles. Many stories will actually overcharge for lamps because they know people are willing to pay the price. There’s actually a surprising amount of fashionable lamps on clearance that many people just don’t know about. Before you settle on paying a huge price on a lamp make sure to go through the clearance bin at your favorite store, or shop online to see if the warehouse has a clearance section. You’ll be surprised as to how many cool designs you may find. Of course, you can always wait for your favorite stores to have a sale on the lighting section in order to score a better deal. If you are really into vintage style lamps then try to shop at a thrift store or used furniture store. These lamps are usually marked down and will make a great addition to your home.

3. Go Natural
One easy way to enjoy plenty of light in the home is to keep it natural. During the day you should never have to have lights on in the home, especially if every room as a window. You may want to consider sky lights to help with the lighting, which will not only cut down the energy bill but will also add value to your home. Sometimes, the light during the day might get a little too intense, but that can easily be remedied by a set of blinds. Simply pull down the blinds when you want some privacy or when the glare is too much for you. You can also use the blinds to filter in the right amount of light for the work you are doing. If you plan on doing activities that require light at night, like reading, then you may want to consider trying out some old fashioned methods. Try reading by candlelit, or sit down next to the fireplace to help improve the amount you see in the dark.

4. Warranties
Sometimes you just can’t avoid buying an expensive light, especially if your home is only wired for certain pieces. One way to ensure you get the most for your money is to make sure every lamp you buy has a warranty. Usually, companies will include a warranty for high dollar lighting systems so you don’t have to do much when you purchase the item. However, some companies do require you to purchase the warranty separately, so make sure to ask the store about it before you walk out with your expensive item. If you don’t have any luck find a warranty then you may be able to get on through your credit card company. Make sure to call ahead before you make the purchase though as your not always guaranteed this option.

5. Battery Lamps
Sometimes the house just needs a little extra light which is where battery lamps come in handy. There’s a lot of battery lamps on the market now and they usually range in the lower price range. One of the most common uses for these lamps is for children who are afraid of the dark. The lamps usually come with an easy to touch design that will signal the light to come on for a period of time. These lamps also often have a way to stick onto the wall which make them great for darker staircases or hallways. They can also be moved around frequently without destroying the wall. Kids can easily touch the light as they go so they can feel safe wherever they are in the home. These lights are also great for extra light while cooking as they are perfect for under hanging cabinets. The best thing is the lights tend to shut off on their own and don’t use up a lot of energy, so your batteries can last quite some time.

6. Fluorescent Lamps
If your home tends to use more light than usual and you can’t find a way around it then you may want to considering installing fluorescent lamps. These lights can usually be found in businesses largely due to the fact that they can light well while stilling saving a whole lot of money on power charges. It might cost you a little bit more than expected to install these lights, but once you’re finished with the initial charges you’ll easily be ready to save some money. When it comes to purchasing bulbs for fluorescent lights you can usually get a very good deal through warehouse and will save even more when you make a bulk purchase. This will help provide you with light for quite some time as the bulbs tend to last longer than the average light bulb. You’ll even notice a change in the way your eyes feel after using the type of lighting.

7. Ceiling Fans
One great solution to lighting in any room is to add a ceiling fan into the mix. Ceiling fans not only save on floor and table space but can illuminate an entire room so you won’t need any other lighting sources. Sometimes it is hard to find a fan with a light on it, but with a little research online you should be able to find a store with the fan you want. Some of these fans can cost as little as $30 and will make the room look incredible once it is installed. The great thing about ceiling fans is they work to complete two jobs in the home. First and foremost they will spread light throughout an average size room. They will also provide a cool breeze during the summer and spread around warm air in the winter. This makes them worth even more money as they will help you save so much by working two jobs efficiently.

8. Dimming Lights
A lot of people really love dimming lights because they so cool. There’s more reasons to considering installing dimming lights in your home though. When you have dimming lights they are able to fluctuate energy so you only spending money on the amount of light you’re actually using. This is perfect for those hallways lights that often get left on at night, as well as the light on the front porch. Of course, dimming lights make a great addition to every room in the home though, as you don’t always need the full power of a bulb. Dimming lights can be relatively expensive to install, but with the mood they set in the home and the amount of money you’ll save on energy you’ll be pretty pleased with the result. Of course, if you don’t want to commit to the full system then you can always find lamps that have the power to dim. This will allow you to use less energy as you enjoy time with the family.

9. Energy Saver
Energy Saver brands have become a huge trend when shopping for electronics, but many people don’t actually realize they can get this amazing quality in their lamps too. It might take a bit of looking and you may even have to order online, but you’ll love having Energy Saver lights in your home. These lights are designed to use less energy than other lamps, which means you won’t have to pay as much to run them. The lights come in a wide range of styles so you won’t have to sacrifice the way your home looks for the lamps to fit in. One great thing about these lamps is they are really great for the environment, so you can be pleased you’re doing your part to clean up the planet. On the other hand, if you have solar power these lamps will help you save on energy so you might actually getting a bigger check at the end of the month from the excess energy you produced.

10. All About the Bulb
If you’re having issues with the amount of energy you’re using or the lack of light you’re receiving then chances are the problem is in your bulb. A simple switch of a light bulb can actually transform the oldest and dullest of lamps into something that you’re excited to display in your home again. There’s a lot of light bulbs out on the market and most of them won’t cost you a whole lot of money. In fact, some of the best light bulbs can be purchased for under $5 if you know where to look. If you’re looking to save money on your energy bill then you can always switch to a dimmer light as it will reduce the cost of your bill significantly. However, if you want to save on your bill while still keeping your room brightly lit then you may want to seek out an energy efficient bulb. This bulbs can be bought at most department stores for a fair price and can last you up to two years of use. These bulbs are great for the environment and will help your home stay bright without forcing you to stress over the bill.

Light is one of the key components in making a home comfortable, so you shouldn’t have to worry about the price of it. With these tips you’ll not only be able to cut down on the energy your home uses, but you’ll always get to enjoy your well lit home at a cost that won’t force you to sacrifice style, comfort or the effect your household as on the environment.

Easter can be one of the simplest holidays to plan for if you’re careful. With the bright colors and fun crafts there’s a whole lot to do in such a short amount of time. However, a lot of people tend to spend a little too much on their celebrations which can really mess up the family budget. There’s a lot of ways to avoid spending a fortune though. One way is to fill the holidays with crafts that aren’t expensive to make. These crafts will help bond the family over the holiday and create memories that won’t just stay with your kids forever, but will prepare them to create memories with their own children some day. So, stop stressing about how you’re going to fund a great holiday and prepare some amazing crafts for your family to partake in.

1. Easter Baskets
Every year we tend to go a little bit overboard on kid’s Easter baskets. From purchasing pre-made baskets to assembling our own with expensive baskets and goodies, the price of our holiday celebration can really skyrocket. One major way to cut the costs of Easter is to have your children make their own baskets. There’s a lot of supplies just lying around the house that can be utilized to help make your child’s basket. Try locating sand pails from last summer, or old oatmeal containers or butter tubs. The options are actually endless when it comes to finding a safe place for your child’s eggs. Once you’ve found the basic aspect of the project then you can easily have kids decorate using construction paper or other common supplies found in the home. You can even have them add glitter, flowers, feathers or stickers for an entirely unique basket. To finish off the basket add a handle using yarn, old fabric or cardboard. Your child will be proud of their basket this year and you wont spend nearly as much money as you normally would.

2. Eggs
Many people tend to want to go all out when it comes to coloring their eggs. There are a whole lot of color kits out there that can cost you way more than you should ever consider paying for egg coloring. Other people will spend the extra money to buy precolored eggs which really takes a whole lot of fun out of the holiday. Instead of worrying about spending money for your eggs you may want to concentrate on how you can create fun looks without the massive price tag. Try picking out a simple coloring kits from a dollar store, or make your own kit with coolaid packets or food coloring. This will already eliminate the majority of the price. When you begin your coloring process have the kids draw on the eggs with a crayon. This will create special designs when they are put into the dye. When the eggs have already dried from the dye then you can have kids add their special touches. Glitter, sequences, stickers and so much more can be used to help make your kids eggs special. You can even make special stands using construction paper and glue. Of course, you don’t even have to dye your eggs if you don’t want to. You can always let the kids paint their eggs with inexpensive finger paint.

3. Paper Plates
When it comes to Easter you can’t get any better craft supply than a simple paper plate. Most people have these items lying around the house, but if you don’t you can get a bulk set at any dollar store. Plates can easily be colored to look like Easter eggs which will keep kids busy for hours. You can even have kids hide their creations for a special Easter egg hunt. When you’re finished hang the eggs up on the wall for a little extra Easter decor. If you’ve already worked on the Easter egg project then have the kids paint the plates to resemble bunnies and chicks. You can easily tie a string around the project to make a mask or you can hang them on the wall. Another fun project for paper plates is have the kids paint two plates to resemble an Easter basket. Then you cut around the top edge to create a simple handle. Once this is finished then staple or glue the pieces together and you’ll have an adorable mini basket that can be used as more decor for the home.

4. Rock Pets
Kids love having pets, even if they aren’t real. This holiday take the kids out on a scavenger hunt and have them find rocks that they think would be a good pet. When you get home put the rocks in a warm soak to help get rid of any debris. Once you’re satisfied with how clean they look then set them out to dry over night. By the time your kids wake up the next day they’ll be ready to create their very own pets. First, pull out your kids favorite acrylic colors and let them paint the rocks one solid color. Once this color has dried then they can easily go back and paint stripes, spots, eyes, mouths or whatever else their imagination comes up with. When the final paint job dries then kids can go back and add glitter, googly eyes, cotton ball tails or whatever else they choose. These rocks can be kept as a new toy or given away to people they love. They will also make a great addition to your Easter egg hunt if you choose to hide them as well.

5. Snacks
When it comes to Easter crafts you can’t leave out the snacks. Kids love munching on their own creation and Easter has a lot of different cool recipes. One example is rice krispy treat Easter eggs. You can easily shape this treat like an egg, but if you really want to get into the holiday spirit then fill each egg with some candy. Once the eggs have formed the kids can decorate them with icing and sprinkles to make them look even more festive. These make great gifts for friends or classmates. Another fun snack to make is jello eggs. These eggs can also be filled with whipped cream or fruits to make them even more fun. Kids will love eating their jiggly snacks as much as they loved making them. Of course, cookies should never be overlooked when it comes to the holiday. You can easily create Easter egg shaped cookies and if you’re feeling creative you might try for bunnies and chicks too. Kids will love helping with decorating once the cookies have cooled.

6. Jewelry
Kids love making and wearing jewelry which is why it can be such a fun experience for the Easter holiday. There’s a lot of different holiday jewelry you can make. For starters, you can easily gather jelly beans that are leftover from the Easter basket. Use a needle and fishing line to work through the beans to create a necklace or bracelet. Younger kids will definitely need help and close observation during this activity though. To make thinks even more festive you can always add in the rainbow marshmallow pieces from your favorite Lucky cereal. Kids will love snacking on their jewelry and will want to hand them out to their friends too. Another great way to make Easter jewelry is to take a foam plate than can usually be found in the paper plate area. Have you children draw an Easter scene or make the plate look like a giant Easter egg. When they’re finished working put the plate in the over or a convection over until it shrinks down. Then add a colorful string to it so kids can hang it around their neck.

7. Bunny Ears
When it comes to Easter nothing says fun quite like bunny ears. This is one of the easiest crafts out there and kids just about any age can help with it. Choose a wide assortment of Easter inspired colored paper and spread it out over the table. Have the kids pick which color they’d like to work on and draw out the bunny ears on each page. You can draw various sizes in various colors as long as you have a matching set. Then have the kids choose a second color for the inner ear. Draw out a smaller bunny ear for this set, but make sure you have sizes that will suit each ear. Once the ears are drawn out then have the kids cut each section and glue the smaller ear into the larger. When the ears have dried have the kids choose where they’d like to tape the ears. They can pop out of anywhere, including flower pots, the back of the sofa and behind your children’s beds. You can also make a simple headband for each child and place a set of ears on the band. When guest come over try to have them guess how many bunnies are hiding in your home.

8. Cards
Everyone loves to get a card for Easter, but you don’t have to spend a fortune on sending them out. Instead, this year pull out your art supplies and have the kids make their own special messages for loved ones. You can really go all out with the supplies. One idea is to create little bunnies out of cotton balls. Another cheap way to work on cards is to print out coloring pages on half of a sheet of paper. Have the kids color the pictures and then fold the paper in half to reveal your special message. To save even more money on the cards you can easily deliver them in person to the people who live near you. Of course, if people live far away then build your own envelope and let the postal service do the rest.

9. Picture Frames
Kids love looking at pictures of themselves, so add a little Easter flair to the home by making your own picture frames. One fine example is to pick up a thicker paper. You can easily cut a hole in the center of the paper to reveal your child’s face. Once the picture is in the frame then use cotton balls to glue a bunny mouth onto your child. You can also add bunny ears to the top of the frame for a finished look. When everything is together glue a piece of the thicker paper to the back to hold the frame up. Of course, you can also cut the paper into an egg shape and then create a center piece for your child’s face to peek through. Before you put the picture in the frame have your kids decorate the egg as if it were an Easter egg.

10. Easter Bunny Box
Make sure your kids thank the Easter Bunny by leaving him a treat box behind. You can easily make a box by folding up the edges of some paper. Add a few bunny ears to make the box look even more authentic. When the box is made have the kids color it and add glitter and other finishing pieces to create a look worthy of the bunny. Inside of the box you can use colored shredded paper for Easter grass that the bunny will love. Fill the box with special treats like carrots and some of the snacks you made for the holiday. You can even have the kids write special notes for the Easter Bunny. Make sure to leave the box out where he can find it though.

Easter is a great time to bring the family together. With these crafts you’ll not only have a great bonding experience, but you won’t have to spend a whole lot of money on the holiday. You may even find that your holiday goes a lot smoother with this cheaper version of your kids’ favorite holiday.

April Fools Day only comes around once in a year so don’t let your budget stop the family from having a few laughs. The first of April is a great day to get all of those built up pranks out of your system so life can function a little easier after the chaotic day. Although the pranks are fun and good hearted some of them may aim to really hurt you financially so don’t fall into the gimmick of buying items just to make your pranks go off without a hitch. There’s actually so many different pranks that you can do around the home, office, or school that won’t cost you more than a few cents that you might not even notice are gone. So create your game plan and get ready for people to fall for your pranks. This April Fools might just be one of the best and cheapest you’ve ever had.

1. Colored Foods
When it comes to pulling off a prank, nothing will wake your family up in the morning quite like a few color changes in their food. One fun way to make kids look twice at their breakfast is to throw in a little food coloring into the milk. You can do the whole gallon or simply what is in your kids’ cereal bowl. You can even customize the colors to suit your child’s preference. Another great trick is to throw a little green food coloring into your spouses morning eggs. The kids will love see their parent’s face as they bite into green food without realizing it. Of course, if you’re feeling more adventurous then you may want to check out some ice cream recipes. You can actually create different ice creams that look like dinner foods. For instance, one ice cream looks like mashed potatoes and gravy which will really make your kids perks up when they bite into the sweet treat. Another simple trick is to swap your child’s favorite after school drink with water mixed with food coloring.

2. Computer tricks
If you’re looking for seriously cheap pranks then take to your family’s favorite technological device. In fact, the computer is wide open for tricks if you use your imagination. One simple thing to do that will really get everyone is to put a piece of double sided tape or a sticky note on the bottom of the computer’s mouse. With the paper there the mouse won’t work and everyone will be struggling to figure out why. You may even want to pull out a timer to see who figures it out in the least amount of time. Another great way to get someone is to take a screen shot of a popular page they light to visit. This trick can be especially great if you use a video streaming site as it will make it appear more real. Once you’ve created the screen shot leave it up, people will think they computer is frozen and will try everything to remedy the problem. Another simple trick is to turn the volume up all the way. People will be alarmed when they go to click on a video and you’ll have to laugh. Finally, you may want to try out this next one out on a few devices. Simply change the language each phone, tablet and computer use and laugh as the kids and spouse try to figure out what their doing.

3. Switch Things Up
Nothing unsettles a routine like switching up the way your child functions in the morning. While they’re asleep trying moving them to another bed in the house. They’ll wake up in their siblings room totally confused about their whereabouts and how they got there. This is a great prank for heavy sleepers, but might take both parents to pull it off. Another great prank is to switch up their clothes a little. Sneak into their rooms while their sleeping and move the top drawers contents to the bottom. You could also switch up their clothing drawers with their siblings to see who figures it out first. This is also a great prank to let the kids in on. In fact, you can gather the kids to help you move all of your spouses clothes to different drawers around the house. You’ll all have a great laugh when your spouse wonders around looking for socks in the morning. You can also really switch up the breakfast routine by moving each cereal to a different box. This will really make kids stop and think and is great for family’s who tend to make their own breakfast each morning.

4. Play Time
Parents need some time to play with toys to, which is why you should utilize your kids’ toy boxes this April Fools. While your kids are sleeping try locating their favorite toys. You can easily set the toys up around the house doing different activities, like playing in the cereal or watching the TV. Kids will wake up laughing over what their toys are doing. You can also have all the kids in the house hide one another’s toys. Make sure the kids aren’t in on the fact they everyone is hiding on another toys though. You should also make sure you know who hid what where, or else there might be a disaster later in the day. Each kid will laugh when their siblings look for the toys, but when they find their toys missing too they’ll know they were in on a huge prank carried out by you. Instead of hiding toys or moving them you could always hang them from the ceiling. This can easily be done with some fishing wire and putty or tacks. Your children will wake up to a room filled with floating toys!

5. Shrinking and Growing
Nothing will make your kids more aware than putting on a t-shirt that fit them perfectly last week. Before your kids go to bed have them pull out the outfit they want to wear in the mornign. From there you can raid the other kids closets to find a close match. This will be a breeze if you have kids who love the same clothes, but you may have to get creative if they don’t. If kids do have the same t-shirts then switch the older child’s for the younger child’s. One child will believe he or she has grown while the other will think he or she shrank over night. When the kids figure it out it will be a huge laugh for everyone. You can also swap out kids clothes for one of dad’s t-shirts. Wake the kids up in a hurry and annoyance you’re running late while you hand the children clothes to wear. They’ll throw on dad’s shirt and wonder what happened. You can also switch out shoes to make the same point. One easy way to make kids feel like they’ve grown is to stuff the shoes with toilet paper so they don’t fit right anymore.

6. Toothbrush Tricks
You can really have some fun with your child’s toothbrush. If you have little ones that brush try putting cream cheese or other toothpaste quality foods on the brush. Kids will be surprised when they put food in their mouth rather than their favorite toothpaste. You can also sprinkle a little salt on older kids and your spouses brush. They’ll make a pretty funny face when they go to brush. One of the best tricks for a toothbrush prank is for kids who like to store their brush in a cup. After they brush at night sneak the cup and brush out of the bathroom. Fill the cup up with water and stick it in the freezer over night. Make sure you wake up with enough time to sneak the brush back into the bathroom before your child wakes up. Kids will have to laugh at the fact they can’t get the brush out of the cup and will wonder how the water froze in the first place.

7. Fill Things Up
When in doubt about this years pranks you can always rely on filling things up. Yes, it’s just as simple as that. You can start with a bag of balloons that won’t cost you more than dollar at most stores. Blow them up while the kids are sleeping and but them in the bathroom. The first person to open the bathroom door will be in for a huge surprise. If your spouse is your target then have the kids help you air up balloons after school. You can stuff them in your spouses favorite room or your personal bathroom. You can also fill shoes and sock with items while everyone is sleeping. Beads and rocks make the perfect filler item, but try to stay away from items like LEGOs because they could be incredibly painful. You can also fill your child’s backpack up with goodies, so when they check to make sure they have their homework they’re surprised. Of course, make sure you have all of their important items ready so you can make it to school on time.

8. Messages
If you really like to see the kids squirm then tell them you received a note about their behavior or grades in school. Most kids will feel uncomfortable even if they are doing well in school . If you really want to make the prank funnier have them read the note aloud to you, but make sure you add in an April Fools to let them know they’ve been tricked. If you want to play the prank on your spouse then work up a document that looks like the electric is being shut off or something along those lines. This is great especially if your spouse is responsible for paying the bills. Kids can even get in on this trick as they make their own documents to spook parents. Of course, your messages don’t have to be from a formal source. You can easily hide your child’s favorite toy and create a ransom note. You may even be able to get a few chores out of the kids before you let them know it was all a joke.

9. Nonsense
There’s no day greater for nonsense than April Fools. Trying putting on your spouses clothes and having them do the same for an easy laugh from the kids. You can also come down wearing your clothes inside out and backwards to get some giggles from the kids. Let them do the same to become part of the joke. You can also easily take on another language the kids won’t understand. Start making random animal noises as regular conversation. Kids will originally find it funny, but will try to make out whats going on when you carry on with the noises. For an even more effective trick get your spouse in on the action.

10. Classics
When all else fails take to the classic pranks you pulled as a child. One of the most popular is to put a rubber band on the kitchen’s water sprayer and aim it away from the wall. The first person to use the sink will get a wet surprise. Other classics include using a whoopee cushion in popular sitting areas or adding a buzzer to your hand when you greet people. One of the more iconic tricks is to glue coins on the floor and see who struggles to pick them up the longest. This can be done in or outdoors and will really have people laughing.

April Fools day is a great time to let out your inner prankster. For many, the pranks become more elaborate and expensive, but thanks to these tips you should be able to really fool some people without spending a penny. So, enjoy your one day out of the year that pranks are encouraged.

In many homes the kitchen seems to be a lost and found box for the rest of the home. Between the paperwork, school papers and appliances your busiest room could really be uncomfortable if you’re without a good organizational system. A lot of people think they need to renovate in order to find a better way to keep their clutter under control. There’s a lot of ways you can avoid this huge expense though, by simply utilizing a few tricks to make your home a whole lot neater. With these cheap and efficient tricks you’ll be able to easily keep your home’s clutter where it belongs which will make your home look more inviting and comfortable. So, put away the blue prints for that ridiculously expensive renovation and head to your local department store for some easy ways to fix up your beloved home.

1. Cleaning Supplies
If your home is like most then chances are you have a pretty wide assortment of cleaning supplies under your kitchen sink. Usually these supplies tend to get cluttered, knocked over and often forgotten, which can really make cleaning even more of a hassle. Instead of cramping up all of your supplies you may want to consider buying a tension rod that will hang above the bottom of the cabinet. You can easily hang your cleaning sprays from this so that you have ample of room on the bottom for all of your other supplies. To help keep matters even less cramped you may want to buy a few bins to keep your other supplies. These are perfect for scrubbing pads, dish accessories and smaller items like a roll of trash bags. With all of the small items in their own space you’ll have a little extra room for detergents and other cleaners that don’t have a spray bottle lid. You’ll be so surprised by the transformation and how little effort it takes you to find what you’re looking for when you need to clean up a spill.

2. Pots and Pans
We all love our pots and pan, but they sure can be a huge hassle to store away when we’re not using them. Fortunately, there’s a lot of ways to make your pots and pans just as convenient to store as your plates. One big tip is to utilize your kitchen drawers. If you happen to have a deeper drawer in the home this can be for pots and pans. Of course, many people don’t have these drawers, but there’s no need to fret. Pots and pans often make incredible décor items when placed on the wall. You may want to get a special rack to hang them on, or you could easily use decorative hooks. If you don’t care for either of those looks then grab a cork board and reliable hooks and use this to display your most used pots and pans. The kitchen will look amazing and you’ll be able to grab what you need to cook in seconds. A lot of people also like to hang their pots and pans from the ceiling. This could be a pricier item, but it is still much cheaper than working on a renovation. When it comes to all those stray lids you might want to consider a magazine rack. You can fasten it to the back of a cabinet door and you’ll be set for easy access to the lid you need.

3. Cooking Supplies
Most kitchens have that pesky drawer filled with those must have kitchen accessories. From tin foil and waxed paper to the run away box of sandwich bags, your kitchen drawer is probably a hazard to close and you might as well forget about looking for what you need. Instead of fretting over your kids squishing their fingers while packing a picnic you might want to consider another option. One of the best ways to get rid of this clutter is to buy a large file or magazine holder. These should be fairly cheap at your favorite department or office supply store. You should be able to fit just about everything in your accessory drawer into one of these holders, which will really save on space. Once you’ve put everything away then tuck it away in a cabinet or in the corner area of one of your counters. This will even free up a drawer for all of your other supplies.

4. Hang Things Up
When your kitchen’s cabinets and drawers simply aren’t cutting you might want to utilize a space that you didn’t think to use before. That space, of course, is your wall. Sure, you probably have a few decorative items already on the wall, but you can really do a whole lot decoration wise using the items you can’t find storage room for. For instance, you can easily find a metallic rack to hang up your knives or simple hooks for all of your favorite spatulas and cooking spoons. Pots and pans are another easy way to get things out of your cabinet space and onto the wall. So, if you have that common drawer of towels, cooking utensils or just a cabinet filled with mugs then you may want to try to figure out a way to display them on the wall. You can even go as far as to hang up shelves, which can easily hold cookbooks or glasses while still allowing you to hang other objects off of it.

5. Spices
If your family likes to spice things up then there’s a pretty good chance you have a cabinet filled with spices. This can be great as far as creating delicious foods, but it can also be a disaster during the cooking process. If you like to cook to taste and realize something your making needs a touch of garlic powder then chances are you’re going to go into your cabinet and there will be no garlic powder to be seen. You’ll panic just a little because the foods on the burner and you’ve pulled out every spice you own because you can’t see all of the labels. This problem is avoidable though. One way is to get an inexpensive spice rack that takes up little space. If you’re feeling more creative though then you may want to buy canister for each of your spices. Make sure to label them and then place a magnet on the back of each. Your spices will attach to refrigerator and you’ll be well on your way to cooking success. If you want to save even more money on this try using baby food jars instead of going out and buying canisters. You can also Velcro spices to a lazy susan to help you save space, just make sure you label the tops of the spices.

6. Silverware
Most people end up putting their silverware in a drawer. This can really be a huge hassle to sort through and often looks messy, especially when you have guests over for dinner. One easy remedy for the silverware dilemma is to find a deep drawer. You can easily separate the drawer into sections using plastic, decorative cardboard or anything else you can think of. Simply put the silverware in and you have a simple and elegant way to store your eating utensils. You can also use this method for knives, but make sure you place something under them so they won’t destroy your drawer. If you don’t have a deep drawer then you may want to consider putting the silverware in canisters. This can be displayed on the dining table as decoration or put on a shelf or counter for easy access.

7. Stacking
If you’re shy on cabinet and counter space then stacking is going to become your new best friend. There’s a lot of great supplies available to you that will allow you to stack up your items in order to save on space. You can even build your own stacking shelves to help save on time while ensuring your look will match the rest of the kitchen. This method can be used with anything including spices, cooking utensils and even some appliances. Cabinets are usually made to be pretty tall, but if you’re storing things like spices and other small items you end up with a lot of empty space. When you use a stacking shelf you can easily utilize that space to make your life a lot less cluttered. This process works especially well with items like smaller plates and bowls that can share space in the kitchen cabinets.

8. Utilize Canisters
If you love to bake then you know how much space your ingredients can take up. They also tend to spill due to rips in the packaging. One easy way to remedy your baking cabinet is to use some canisters to save on the space and mess. There’s a lot of great deals on these items so you won’t have to spend too much to find what you’re looking for. One simple tip when shopping for canisters is to find items that are taller rather than wider. These items make for an easy fit in taller cabinets and won’t take up as much room. You can even use these canisters for your pantry items, such as beans, rice, cereal, coffee and pastas. If you don’t have a lot of room in the pantry for these item then simply use them as display items on a shelf, counter or table. You’ll love how great they look as well as how much space they create in the kitchen.

9. Utilize Door Space
Most kitchens have at least one door that sort of just takes up space. Okay, sure, you use it to get in and out but you can really do so much more with it. Instead of just leaving the door to be a door try using it as a little extra storage. For instance, you can easily place a shoe rack on the back and place some of your favorite cooking utensils, spices or even jars of goods inside of it. If you’re not afraid to alter the door then try putting pegs in the back which will make it great storage for pots and pans, or some of your mugs. You should base what you store on the back of the door by how much use it gets, as you don’t want to put anything too fragile on a busy door.

10. Keep the Refrigerator Organized
One of the major problems with the kitchen is the refrigerator often gets so disorganized that its easy enough to let the rest of the room follow suit. One way to get rid of the cluttered fridge is to take out all of those pesky condiments that don’t need to be refrigerated. If you’re not sure what can stay and what can go then simply check the labels. Anything that can stay out can be put on a lazy susan and left on the table. When you’ve cleared out these items you’ll have a lot more room on the side of the refrigerator for those little items that take up so much space. You should also remove the milk from the side of the fridge as it will spoil faster this way. Instead put it in a corner so it won’t be in the way of other foods. You can also use small metal shelves that allow you to stack items on larger shelves. You should also always rotate your produce so you won’t have any bad produce taking up space. This will also ensure you save some money as your food won’t go bad as often.

There’s a lot of ways to keep your kitchen organized for less, so don’t stress about making a renovation budget. With these easy tips you’ll be well on your way to a kitchen than is incredible organized and ready for your master cooking skills.

We all have that urge to try to find out where we come from. It’s human nature to be curious about ancestry and those who lived and made our life possible. Unfortunately, most people don’t have a large family tree to look back on. In fact, a lot of people are lucky enough to go as far back as their great grandparents. There are quite a few programs and even private investigators that can help you figure out just where you came from though, but these forms of investigation might end up costing you more than you’d imagined. There’s a few ways to get around the price tag though, especially if you’re only looking to start out your search as an occasional hobby. With a few tips in the right direction you’ll be more than ready to discover your roots and learn the story behind you heritage.

1. Ask Family
When it comes to finding out more about your ancestors your best bet might be to ask your family members. You should start with your parents, of course, and then move on to more extended relatives. As you begin to learn more and more names and dates then you’ll be able to piece information together better and faster. Sometimes our relatives don’t always know much about their family, which is why your research is so important. You might also have to think a little out of the box in regards to who to ask about what information. For instance, you might end up contacting someone you’ve never met before in your life. Simply follow the leads your family gives you and you’ll be ready for an amazing look into your storyline. Even if you can only go back as far as your grandparents or great grandparents you still might be in for a surprise as to how fast those branches fill up when you start looking into information.

2. Free Data Bases
When you begin your search you should always be aware that there are free resources out there. Don’t think you automatically have to subscribe to items just because that’s what everyone else is doing. In fact there are dozens of websites dedicated to helping you find your ancestors. Of course, you might not have an easy time doing so as you have to know what you’re looking for when it comes to many of the websites. However, if you do have a pretty general idea you may be able to find a wide selection of potential leads. The leads may not become what you hope, but you’ll at least be a little further in your journey than when you started. If you’re looking for a public document, such as a marriage, birth or death records then you may be in luck. A lot of places might make you pay a fee to have a mailed copy of the certificate, but a lot of the time the records can do just as good.

3. Start Simple
Researching your roots can be tough and at times you may find it frustrating. This is why you should always start simple instead of leaping into unknown territory. If you’re willing to put some money into your search and are entirely clueless as to where to begin then you may want to look into your surname. This will actually point you in the direction of one of your countries of origin. There’s a lot of countries that will do this task at a very low price, while others will charge you an arm and a leg. Of course, you can also simply go online and type in your surname to see possible origins. This is a great way to learn the basics of your family and you can even do it for all of the last names you know your family has taken on. For a lot of people this information is plenty enough, but for others it is just a stepping stone to get you on your way. Another simple trick is to Google names, such as those of your grandparents. You might find some cool stuff online that won’t cause you a lot of frustration.

4. DNA Test
Nothing tells the story of you quite like some good old fashioned DNA. If you’re looking to know where your ancestors originated, without so much the family tree aspect, then you may want to try getting a DNA test. These tests used to be incredibly expensive, but now they range around $100 and can really give you some intricate details about your roots. Of course, many of the test can only tell the maternal side for women, but others can do amazing work to find a full line. Before you look into getting a DNA test make sure you know what each company offers. There’s many who just tell you what percentage of a nationality you are, while other tests will actually connect you to cousins you would not have known otherwise. One of the cool things about these tests is they really do open up some doors and for such an amazing price who can resist?

5. Short Subscriptions
For many people the urge to find ancestors hits in burst. Work, school, money and life in general tend to get in the way of the search, which is one reason why you shouldn’t buy long subscriptions to services that offer you records to help find your roots. Instead, buy a short subscription. This will not only save you money, but will motivate you to get working on the project at hand rather than procrastinating until the last week of your year long subscription. Buying a shorter subscription won’t just help you get motivated though. A lot of the time when someone gets a subscription all of the information becomes a little too much to process. So, instead of compiling document after document that you’ll eventually get around to you can stop and take the time to look at each document when the subscription is up. Then, when you’re ready to get back to researching you’ll have a better idea as to what you need to be looking for.

6. Wait For Free Trials
Of course, if you are on a tight budget and still want to stroll around some of the pay sites then you might want to wait around for a free trial. In order to pull in more business many websites will actually offer free trials to non-subscribers. This is one of the best times to get some of your major research done. You might feel like its crunch time, but you’ll certainly be glad you put in the extra time when you get some cool results. You shouldn’t expect to be able to see the entire site as free though. A lot of the time certain databases will be unlocked to the general public, so don’t be disappointed if you do end up finding nothing during the trial. Most sites won’t repeat the same trial often though, so if you keep patient you may get your chance to see the database you’re waiting for. Of course, it does actually help to sign up for the site in which you want the free trial. A lot of the time you’ll be the first to know via email about the trial and the trial may even be privy only to subscribers.

7. Coupons
You may be a little surprised to know that you can actually use a coupon on your ancestry research. There’s a lot of online coupons available for databases, so if you’re planning to subscribe then you may want to look around to save a little money. Coupons are one of the best ways to get a deal on some of these databases, so make sure you’re armed when the time comes. If you don’t want to do even more research then skip the search and sign up for the database you’re looking into. A lot of the time they’ll email promo codes in order to encourage the flow of business. So, keep an eye on your email account when you feel like it may be time to subscribe. You can also find a coupon for the popular DNA test if you look hard enough. Many of the test will have buy one get one half off coupons that will help you test your entire family!

8. Family History Library
If you live in the USA and want to know more about your relatives dating back to their first appearance in the country, then you may want to check out the Family History Library. This library is funded by the Mormon church and resides in Salt Lake City, Utah so you may have to make a road trip to fully receive its benefits. This church offers people from all over the place a chance to find their family’s documents for absolutely free. You can easily find what you’re looking for here as there are usually clear documents of everyone that resides or resided in the country. Of course, sometimes the documents might be hard to find or unclear. Either way, taking a trip to this amazing document center isn’t just a great way to pay homage to your roots, but will enlighten you for a price that is substantially lower than hiring a private investigator

9. Support Groups
For many people it is hard to actually keep motivation to get the research done. This is where support groups can really help you save on time and money. Usually support groups have a wide range of members, including beginners to people who have dated their family tree back to remarkable periods. With this level of diversity you’ll not only be able to get your questions answered, but you’ll also find encouragement when you felt like there was none left. Support groups can also lead you to find some valuable information that would have otherwise taken lots of time and money. These recommendations usually come from the people who have been researching awhile and are nice enough to share their wisdom. These individuals also know the tricks of the trade and how to find what you’re looking for at a price that won’t make you cringe. So, if you plan on getting serious about your research a support group is a must find.

10. Write Everything Down
One key to the success of your research is to make sure you write every single thing down. Even if you’re not sure it’s important or you don’t know what is! These tiny details can come back to haunt you when the puzzle pieces finally come together. Once you’ve written everything down you should make multiple copies up and put it in different locations. This will help ensure you won’t lose your research and you’ll have everything to help guide you in the right direct if everything lines up correctly. Sometimes people will forget to write down things and they end up forgotten or unclear to the mind. This can be where all of your time and money go down the drain as it is often hard to come across the same detail again. So, make sure you have everything written down so you’ll be ready to decipher your ancestors’ message.

Finding out who you are can be an incredible amount of fun, but it’s up to you not to let it become a financial money pit. There’s lots of ways to seek out information and compile your heritage without spending a lot, so make sure to be careful. With any luck you’ll be able to date back before you great grandparents so you can finally embrace where you came from. With these tips you may even find a renewed love for your investigation.

Yoga is one of the best ways to relax your body and mind while finding a balance that is healthy mentally and physically. However, many people tend to take yoga to a level that is financially uncomfortable for them. This problem can lead to a lack of motivation, termination of the exercise or a severe budget crisis. One way to avoid losing your passion for yoga is to stop making it about the money and go back to the early stages of your practices. You should be able to bend and move without stress, rather than trying to figure out how you’re going to pay for your next class. This is where a little know how comes in handy. Yoga doesn’t have to cost you a penny if you don’t want it to and with these tips you’ll learn how to work around the price tag so you can find peace again.

1. Classes
There’s a lot of yoga classes out there to choose from which can really leave you in a financial bind if you don’t know how to look for the right class. Many classes are really expensive and can leave your budget hurting after just one class. The best thing you can do is try to find a class that is free or donation based. It may be hard to find a class that is free, but many instructors will offer a few sessions on a donation base. The best way to find these classes is to call around or ask other yoga enthusiast. These classes might also be a bit busier, but for a lower price it will be well worth it. If you already have a gym membership then you may be able to sign up for a yoga course through the gym which will help keep you flexing without an added price. Another cheaper option is to ask at the YMCA or local fitness club as they often hold free or low cost sessions for members. Of course, if you have no luck with these methods you may want to just buy your classes in bulk in order to receive a slight discount.

2. Skip the Equipment
When it comes to yoga a lt of people believe they have to have the extra equipment to do it. This, of course, is not true at all. If you don’t have money for a new mat or any of the other add ons then simply don’t use them. Most of the basic moves in yoga can be done on a bare floor, especially the positions that involve sitting and laying down. If you plan on doing stances that aim more towards standing then you may want to work on a hardwood or tiled floor that will allow you to gain more balance on the feet. As you progress in yoga you will know more about what your body needs in order to do the stretches you desire. In many cases, people find that they can easily get though a full workout session without ever having to use a mat or equipment that yoga stores try to sell.

3. Utilize Gym Clothes
A lot of people will go out and buy an all new wardrobe when they decide to start up a yoga course. This can be a big issue if you’re just starting out and don’t know how the activity is going to feel on your body. There’s a whole lot of brands out there that cater to flexibility during yoga, but they range from pricey to even pricier. The best thing abut yoga is there is no dress code. You can show up in your worst pair of sweats and you’ll be comfortable for the entire session. If you already own gym clothes then try going to class in these, you may find they work just as well as a yoga uniform might. If you don’t have gym clothes already the try working out in a pair of old shorts and a t-shirt. You probably don’t want a shirt that fits too loosely, but most old t-shirts or tank tops work fine for the duration of the workout. If you’re looking to sweat more during your workout then choose items that promote sweat like a hoodie or sweatpants. You can spend years doing yoga and never once have to buy a yoga outfit.

4. Yoga at Home
Our home’s are one of the most relaxing places for most people. If you can find some quiet time during your day then go ahead and do a session of yoga at home. This may become your favorite place to workout and could really help you save a lot of money on classes. It might be wise to schedule a few beginner classes of yoga as this will help you develop a routine and ensure you’re doing the moves correctly. Once you have your motions ready then you should easily be able to work out what you need to do to keep in shape in your own home. As you progress with yoga you might schedule a class or two to master more advanced moves, but this shouldn’t be more than a few times a year.

5. Free Classes
With technology such a major part of our lives there is really no need to step foot in a yoga class. In fact, there’s a vast collection of yoga courses on the internet that will have you in shape in no time at all. If you’re a visual person then try searching on websites like youtube as there are many professional and amateur yoga instructors that have uploaded countless workout sessions and position guides that are simple to follow. Even popular TV hosts like Dr. Oz have a session that is entirely dedicated to free yoga lessons. You can also check out your local fitness or public access stations to see if there is any yoga courses available. These can easily be recorded and played at a time that is convenient for you. If you’d prefer to work on your own then there’s plenty of websites that will show you to do the poses. If you don’t have access to the internet often then you can always purchase of check out a book from the local library or used book store.

6. Utilize Discounts
When it comes to discounts you should always be aware of what you qualify for. One of the biggest groups of people to receive discounts on yoga is students. These discounts usually require flashing a current student ID card, but this easy task could lead you to a free or reduced price yoga course. A lot of places will actually hold classes specifically for students that are easy to crash when you’re in the mood for yoga. Of course, many other people qualify for a number of discounts. For instance, if you have a military ID or are part of certain clubs then a discount might be possible. You don’t just have to use the discount on classes though. There are many stores that will offer this discount on clothes and equipment as well, so always have your ID cards handy and ask about possible discounts. You may also be able to find some awesome groupon deals that help you and your yoga friends get into a class for a whole lot less than you’d expect.

7. Make Your Own Props
Yoga equipment can run you a small fortune, but if you know a few home remedies then you’re good to go without having to pay the price. There’s many things around the home that can be used to create the same effect of the yoga equipment. For instance, if you tend to need blocks during many of your poses you might try to utilize some family sized soup cans. If you need something a bit wider then move on to refried beans. These items are cheap and usually in the home which is pretty convenient when you’re ready to work out. A lot of people need to utilize yoga straps with their workout. These straps can easily be mimicked with neckties or the waist tie from a bathrobe. If you love using a workout ball to help with your core then try the kids bouncy ball or a thinner chair. Finally, if you want some resistant weight then fill up two water bottles to help out. These easy to create props won’t leave you longing for more out of your workouts and will ensure you’re ready to push your body to the next level in yoga.

8. Music
Everyone enjoys relaxing to a little music, especially when it comes to yoga. However, finding music based especially for yoga can really be a pricey purchase. Even if you do find a yoga collection at a decent price there is a pretty good chance you’re going to end up getting very tired of the music after several workouts with it. Instead of purchasing music try logging onto your favorite internet radio. Many other users have play list dedicated solely to yoga which could help you find what you’re looking for. This could also help mix things up and provide you with music that can help you find the relaxation you need. You could also get on a website like YouTube and find channels dedicated to yoga. This will provide you with music and instruction to help make your experience even better.

9. Create a Group
One simple way to help keep an interest in yoga and save money on it is to create a group that will help you stay motivated. Your group can work out together and learn new things from one another, which will really help prevent you from spending too much money on classes. If you can create a group with people who range in ability then you will be well on your way to a successful group. As the more advanced members help teach new poses and direct the body the intermidiate students can also improve on their stances by helping the beginners. Everyone working together will create a healthy balance of fun that will encourage everyone to meet their goals. As time progresses your group could even double in size. You can also take turns providing snacks and drinks for everyone in the group which will also save money in the long run.

10. Volunteer
If you’re still having a bit of trouble finding a way to get yourself into yoga then you might want to consider a little volunteer work. Volunteering at a studio, gym or school is one of the easiest ways to get into a class for no expense at all. Simply talk to the owner of the organization or the instructor before a class and let them know your situation. You might end up spraying mats or sweeping and mopping when class is over, but your mind and body will be more balanced during the extra work. Sometimes your volunteer work can even pay off on your resume as your experience in the studio might land you a job working in a yoga institution. Of course, make sure you balance your time well as you won’t want to be rushed with your everyday activities, yoga class and volunteer work.

Yoga is such a great way to encourage strength and tranquility while burning calories, but a lot of the time it is turned into a money pit. These tips should have you working to find a more healthy balance that will allow you to enjoy yoga the way it was meant to be. So find a place where you can relax your mind and let your body flex and move the way it was intended to.

Breakfast is one of the most important meals of the day, but many of us opt to not eat it due to finances and lack of time. For many, breakfast becomes one more trip through the drive thru or is avoided with a large and sugary cup of coffee. There’s a whole lot of ways that you can take back your breakfasts though, which will really improve your health and your family’s budget. When you utilize these tips you’ll be ready to make time to start each morning with your family. After a few weeks you’ll notice amazing health benefits as well as a closer bond with your loved ones. Once you get in a routine you’ll never want to avoid or breakfast or eat it out of a wrapper ever again.

1. Grow Fruits
When it comes to breakfast nothing satisfies hunger quite like a sweet treat. Fruit is one of the healthiest options you can utilize when planning breakfasts which is why it might be a good idea to start planting your own fruit. Sure, this tip is really only useful during certain seasons of the month, but it can really cut down on your food bill. Try doing some research to find out what fruits grow best in your area. You may even find that you have an easy time growing some fruits in planters in the home. Once you find out the best fruits to plant per season then you’ll be well on your way to a fun garden that really transforms your lifestyle and health. Planting your own fruits can also become a fun family project that really teaches the kids about where food comes from. You may even consider planting food trees that will grow alongside your children! The possibilities are endless and can be customized to suit every family.

2. Farmer’s Market
Shopping for breakfast foods can be easy, but if you’re looking for an inexpensive and healthy option then you may want to check out your local farmer’s market. These foods usually lack many of the preservatives, pesticides and other items that you probably don’t want your children eating. Shopping in these locations also helps out the local economy and promotes food alternatives that will keep you and your family healthier. You should be able to find everything you need for most of the breakfast meals you plan. A lot of market’s will primarily cater to seasonal fruits and vegetables, but many will also offer honey, flour, eggs, milk and meats that will transform the taste of your meals entirely. You may even notice your family gets sick a lot less thanks to the delicious honey and local ingredients that help fight off colds and allergies.

3. Go Oatmeal
If you have picky kids in the house then oatmeal may just be your saving grace! Oatmeal is not only cheap but is nutritious and helps keep the appetite down for quite some time. This cheap meal can also be spiced up with fruits, honey, sugar and other ingredients to help keep the meal exciting and edible for all members of the family. When it comes to shopping for oatmeal you have to be very careful though. It can be a very inexpensive meal if you buy it in bulk or purchase the oats to make your own oatmeal. However, if you try to purchase pre-made packages or expensive name brands then this meal will cost you too much. Purchasing the oats will also give you the freedom of creating a classic oatmeal or baking it to create a special cereal. You can really work this amazing food into so many meal plans that will really make the whole family smile, especially on colder mornings.

4. Smoothies
Not every family has enough time to sit down and eat with one another. For these families a smoothie might be the answer to your breakfast dilemma. Many store or restaurant smoothies are filled with sugars which turn many people away from feeding this meal to children. However, if you create your own smoothies at home then you may find this meal is super fast and nutritious for everyone. Try buying fruits in bulking, cutting them up and freezing them to help ensure you don’t lose money on fruits. From your fruit packages you can choose based on your family members preferred taste or what they are lacking in their diet. You can also incorporate yoghurt that can be purchases inexpensively or made at home, or other low fat dairy products. Sometimes granola and oats can be added to the mel to help ensure your family will stay full for longer. Of course, if you’re really feeling adventurous, or sneaky, you might want to consider adding a few vegetables in before the kids see. They’ll never taste them and you’ll know they’re getting plenty of nutrients.

5. Make it From Scratch
We’re all guilty of strolling past the frozen food or prepackaged meal section at the grocery store. Shopping for items like this can not only be unhealthy but incredibly expensive for your budget. Instead of going with the convenince of these unhealthy packages you may want to try out making some of your foods from scratch. There’s countless recipes you can try in a hurry that will appease your family. Most breakfast foods can be simply made with flour, water, milk and eggs which are all pretty cheap to shop for. So, instead of throwing something in the microwave first thing in the morning try preheating a pan and do a little mixing. Your family will love your homemade biscuits, scones, muffins, pancakes and waffles and you’ll love how little time they actually take. Of course, if you are really pressed for time in the morning you can mix your ingredients at night, or go ahead and prepare the meal and heat it in the morning.

6. Skip the Restaurant
Although breakfast foods tend to be a bit cheaper at restaurants they’re still not good for your budget. Most restaurants that require you to go in and sit down tend to have higher prices and could force you to lose up to two hours of your morning time. This loss in time would have allowed you to cook three or four different meals in the same about of time it took you to sit down and eat one. Fast food restaurants can also be pretty pricey, but they the main concern with eating in these places is the unhealthy food. May fast food locations will actually pack so many calories into one item of food that you’ll end up consuming half of your daily intake of calories without actually getting full. These foods also provide very little nutritious qualities and can cause you to become addicted to the foods.

7. Potatoes
When it comes to feeding your family for cheap there is nothing quite as amazing as a potato. Potatoes not only cost you very little in bulk, but will help fill up everyone so they won’t become hungry again until lunch time. Apart from being filling and remarkably cheap there’s a whole lot of things you can do with a potato. For instance, if you throw in a couple of potatoes into the food process then you’ll have hash browns in no time flat. Pan fries are also another great addition to the breakfast place and go great with meats or sweet foods. You can even mix your potatoes with eggs or vegetables to add protein and other nutrients to the meal. The best thing about potatoes is they can be cooked in a hurry and will hold up in your refrigerator for longer. You may even want to utilize some of your leftover potatoes to create your breakfast side dish.

8. Eggs
You can’t plan a breakfast without considering the delicious options eggs bring you. There’s a whole lot of things you can do with eggs which can really promote your family’s health while keeping the appetite satisfied. One of the healthiest things to do with eggs is to create an omelet rich with vegetables. This is a great incentive to get kids to eat veggies without making them think they taste disgusting. If you don’t have time, or perhaps patience, to work with an omelet then you can easily add vegetables to the eggs to create a tasty scramble. Eggs are also an easy thing to make for children before school as they have been known to help improve school performance throughout tests and longer lessons. If you’re looking for a meal on the go then you might want to consider making your own breakfast sandwich or a breakfast burrito with eggs and other items. These items can even be improved using leftovers, like meats and vegetables, that you otherwise would just throw out.

9. Coupons
Finding coupons for breakfast foods is incredibly easy. From online coupons to looking sales ads you should be able to find a wide collection of coupons based around your family’s favorite breakfast foods. With these coupons you should be able to cut down hundreds of dollars on your food bill for year and will allow you to shop a wide assortment of breakfast foods you’d never think of trying before. Even if you’re looking to buy prepackaged or frozen meals you should be able to easily work your way through the price so you can enjoy the convenience of your meals. You may even find more deals on items tat can be bought in bulk which will help keep your pantry in supply for breakfasts as well as other meals.

10. Freezer Meals
If your family tends to have a hectic schedule the you might want to make some time two or three times a month to cook some breakfast meals in bulk. This will allow you to buy your groceries in bulk while also preventing you from having to wake up even earlier to make breakfast. Try looking online for recipes that make great breakfasts if you’re looking to try something new. Of course, you can always stick with the classics. For instance, if you buy a lot of eggs make up a bit batch of breakfast burritos, wrap them up, label them and freeze them. This makes for a quick meal in the morning or a snack for teens who are constantly hungry. You might also get to baking if you really love baked goods in the morning. Try making biscuit dough in bulk. You can go ahead and cook the biscuits and freeze them or put the dough in the freezer for early morning baking. This can also be done with pancakes, waffles, scones and muffins. This will also allow you to use a lot of dough without having to worry about throwing out the craps. Another simple idea is to piece together ingredients for a quick potato scramble and freeze them in a bag. Simply empty the bag into a pan until thawed and then add eggs. Of course, on of the fastest options around is to make prepacked smoothies. Your mornings will never be as smooth and your budget will be incredibly happy.

You shouldn’t have to skip out on breakfast because you think your budget doesn’t allow for it. With these simple to follow tips you’ll be ready to feed your family healthy meals without worrying about how much you spent or how much time it takes to prepare them. Breakfast will certainly gain a new meaning to your family when you utilize these tips!

Tax season can be one of the most stressful periods of the year. From worrying about getting your W-2s in on time to going through the filing cabinet to retrieve all those receipts you think you might need, tax season can really do a number on most people’s mental state. Even after you get everything in you still have that lingering feeling that you could possibly get audited. Tax season doesn’t have to be a period to stress out over finances though and even if you can’t shake the stress you can still turn it into a period of rejoice when you get your tax return back. There’s a few ways you can maximize the amount you get back each year though, which can really make you feel better about the tax season blues.

1. File Yourself
One of the biggest mistakes you can make with your taxes is having someone else file them for you. No one really understands your finances and accomplishments quite like you do, so why let someone else pour through your receipts to get you a refund. Instead of going to a place to get the taxes worked out try buying a program that can help you work through all of the stages without the help of a professional. You might also want to get online to see if you can get through all of the grueling questions without actually purchasing a program yourself. If you do figure out how to file for yourself then you’re already looking at a great tax return. Apart from being able to find all of the discounts your family will receive you’ll also end up paying very little to get your taxes filed. People who tend to go to a tax agency can end up paying up to $400 of their return, which can really be a huge burden on your finances.

2. Bring in Old Taxes
If you do happen to go in to an agency to get your taxes done then there is one saving grace for the huge feel you’ll pay. That is, most agencies will look over last year’s taxes for no extra cost. Of course, you have to be a loyal customer of their agency as they don’t want to go over some other agencies work. However, if you happen to frequent a tax agency every year then you might ask them to go over your return from last year. A lot of the time they can spot areas that were missed and correct them so your return will come back even larger this year. Make sure you ask to ensure your agency does this for free as many might want to charge you a little extra for the service if you don’t ask.

3. Know Your Deductibles
One of the biggest catches when it comes to filing taxes if your deductibles. A lot of people are unaware of the actual items they pass up when they file yearly. Before you decide to file, whether on your own or with an agency, try doing a little research to see what you qualify for. You might be surprised as to what actually passes as a legal deduction when you file. For instance, if you had to pay a lot of medical bills this year then you may be in for a little bit of that money back. Also, if you were forced to relocate due to work then you’ll probably be looking at a little extra money on your return this year. Knowing is half of the battle of filing though, so if you have a hunch that you deserve some more money back then look it up. There’s also a lot of agencies that you can call, at no cost, that will answer your tax deduction questions.

4. Keep Those Receipts
Although it isn’t always easy to remember to hold onto a receipt, it might be in your best interest to do so as often as you can. Of course, this tip only stands within reason. You don’t need to hold on to receipts if your family goes out to eat or you buy your child a new toy. Rather, if you are forced to buy uniforms for a new job then you may want to keep these receipts. The government tends to give back money for those who go the extra mile for a job, so make sure if your purchase is work related you hold onto the receipt. Usually you can get returns for items such as clothes and gas purchases if they tend to be work related. You may have to go a little further to prove the items were for work, but every little bit helps. If you are self employed then you should also keep your receipts for any equipment or software you buy to better your business. If you have trouble keeping track of these items then create a jar for your receipts. When you buy gas toss in the receipt and leave it until tax time next year. You’ll be thankful you did when you get a little extra money back.

5. Count the Kids
Let’s face it, kids are pretty expensive. Thankfully the government knows that which is why they give you a pretty good deduction just for having kids under a certain age. When you do your taxes make sure you have all of your children’s Social Security Numbers ready so you can enjoy the refund they’ll get you. Usually you can get up to a thousand dollars back for each child you have, which can really help take some of the burden off of those daily costs you acquire. Of course, a simple deduction isn’t all you’ll get for having children. If you made a lot of doctor visits, had to buy school uniforms, or are starting a child out in college then you may be entitled to even more money back. Make sure you bring up any major expenses when you talk to your accountant or look for the deductions when you file yourself.

6. Donate
If you tend to make a bit too much for a return, or just want a little extra back then make sure to donate this year to help out yourself as well as others. The government looks fondly on people who donate throughout the year, so find a charity you can appreciate and give a little extra love to them. It doesn’t matter if you’re spending time passing out food baskets, making soup or just giving away some cash, as your efforts will certainly be rewarded. There’s a lot of agencies in the country that need as much help as possible. If you’re looking for a quick way to help out then send a check to your favorite organization. It doesn’t matter if its feeding kids school lunch, saving the whales or creating reading programs for the illiterate, as they all count toward your donation. Of course, if you’re on a tight budget and don’t have extra money to give then try going through your old clothes or items you don’t use anymore and donate those. Make sure you get a receipt for all of your donations though as you’ll need to prove it on taxes.

7. Utilize 401K
Your retired you is in love with your 401K, but even now you can benefit from this amazing program. It doesn’t matter if you’re just starting out or are nearing retirement as your 401K is your ticket to some major discounts this year. Each paycheck you’ve set aside a bit of money to go straight to your 401K, which is great. However, if you plan on adding a little or a lot more to the plan then this money might be a great deduction on this year’s taxes. Make sure you keep track of what you put back so you can put it into your tax information. The more you lose throughout the year to the 401K the more you might get back with your return. Of course, you may want to talk more with an adviser to work out what the 401K can do for you now and in the future before you decide to file taxes.

8. Loans
Loans can be a sore subject for a lot of people. Whether you needed a loan to go to school, buy a car or help with work related expenses, you may be able to find a little bit of a write to help you get your loans sorted out. A lot of people go into filing taxes without considering some of the major financial decisions they made this year. However, these expenses can really help you out when you lease expect them to. For instance, if you’re a student who is paying down some of your student loan debt then you should get paper work stating how much interest you paid during the year. If you’re like most students it certainly feels like a whole lot of money. When you file make sure to bring this in as you may find you’ll get some of that interest money right back into your pocket. The same can be said for mortgages. If your home acquires a lot of interest then see if you can write it off to help you pay down that loan a lot more. You may find that paying your debt can actually be pretty rewarding.

9. File Electronically
Filing online is a pretty popular trend these days. Most people like to get their taxes done online because it saves a whole lot of time and money. Generally when you file online you don’t have to pay anyone to do the work for you. There’s a lot of easy to use software that will guide you through all of the steps so you don’t have to give up any of your return money. Filing online also means that your taxes are going to be looked at much faster than taxes that are mailed in. This could lead you to get a bigger discount, which is always really nice. Of course, since your taxes made it to the IRS faster, they’ll always get back to you faster, which is another added bonus of filing online.

10. Ask Questions
There’s never any harm in asking questions about your taxes. In fact, asking questions can actually lead you to discover some deductions you might have previously missed. Make sure you know all of the free agencies you can call and talk to for free before you actually file. This will allow you to feel a lot less stressed about filing which will ensure you won’t make mistakes an will feel better about the deductions you do have. There are also numerous ways to find answers to your questions online which can help you further your search for deductions even more. If you’re having trouble finding a source your comfortable with then try looking for information on the IRS page as they often have an FAQ section as well as outside links to websites that can help you get your taxes filed with ease. With a little research on your part, both online and through phone calls, you may find some pretty amazing deductions you didn’t know existed.

There’s not a whole lot of people who enjoy filing taxes, but most people do love the return check! Instead of worrying about getting your taxes finished try thinking about the end result as it will motivate you to feel confident about your taxes. With these tips you should be on your way to a better return, so all of those stressful moments will be gone in no time. Now, the only thing you’ll have to worry about is how you plan on using the return.

After a very long winter you’ve finally earned the right to party in the sun and forget about all of your troubles. However, working out a schedule for Spring Break on a budget can be a huge chore that takes up way too much time and forces you to feel even more stressed. There’s a lot of ways that you can stick to your Spring Break dreams without actually forcing yourself to lose a whole lot of money in the process. There’s a lot of ways to cut down on the cost of your Spring Break vacation without forcing you to cut down on the amount of fun you get to have. Although you might not end up with your dream vacation you’ll still have a blast without forcing you to work extra shifts afterward.

1. Fly During the Week
If you can plan on starting you Spring Break adventure a little bit or a little bit late then you might be in for some huge savings. Usually flying is a whole lot cheaper if you can find a flight that leaves during the week. This might mean taking off a little bit early on Thursday or simply waiting until the first Monday of Spring Break to leave. This might take a little bit of juggling on your part, but leaving during the week might mean you’ll have a lot more freedom to enjoy your holiday without tight budget constrictions. Leaving later in the week is usually better as it will allow you to enjoy yourself for a few days and come back to rest up for work and school the following week. The fewer days you spend gone the less you’re likely to spend as much money. So plan on booking your flight early and for a day of the week.

2. Location
Everyone has their dream vacation which usually includes traveling to foreign destinations or spending time with other co-eds on the beach. This isn’t always a feasible plan though. Instead of choosing popular destinations or traveling out of country you may want to consider a location that isn’t as popular. Usually smaller beaches don’t cost as much to travel to. You’ll end up paying less for the hotel, food and anything else you might need while on the trip. If the beach isn’t really your thing then you might want to consider a camping trip. This will give you a chance to enjoy some quality and quiet time with friends without having to worry about the huge price tag. You’ll also be able to save money as you won’t be able to spend on restaurants or attractions.

3. Buy Groceries
Going out to eat while you’re on vacation is one of the easiest things in the world to do. Unfortunately, it can also be one of the most expensive things to do. Instead of going out to eat for every meal of your trip trying going and out and buying some actual groceries. If you’re going to be gone for an entire week then it might be a good idea to grab some simple items for breakfasts and lunch. You can whip together some sandwiches or have a bowl of cereal before you go out to the party. If you plan on spending a lot of time on the beach then try grabbing some fruit and other simple items to eat as this will ensure you won’t want to waste money at the concession stands. You should also consider buying bottles of water and other beverages that you might want while you’re in the sun. If you have to go out for a meal try venturing out for an early dinner, but try to keep from eating out more than once a day. This will ensure you have a bit more money to splurge on other things.

4. Hostels
Although it might not be the glamorous getaway you’re looking for, staying in a hostel can really save you a whole lot of money. Hostels are designed to help young people travel for a whole lot less, so take advantage of their services. Most hostels offer plenty of room for your clothes, a comfortable place to sleep and areas to shower and eat. You might not have as much privacy as you’d like, but you won’t be spending a lot of time hanging out at the hostel. One of the best things about staying at a hostel is you’ll meet plenty of new people. This will help you find and gain access to some exciting parties while also creating friendships with people you never would have met before. More importantly, hostels are incredibly cheap and will beat out the price of any hotel or motel you’re considering.

5. Go for the Discount
The last thing on your mind during Spring Break is probably you’re school’s ID card, however it should be. Your student ID card is your ticket to a world of discounts that you would have never though possible. It doesn’t matter if you’re studying in the area or in a foreign country as most places of business will give you a discount just for being a student. If you’re not a student then fret not. You might be able to find some amazing discounts with a military ID card or some club memberships. These discounts can get you into movies for cheaper and also might gain you access to some exciting museums and amusement parks for free to a discounted price. Don’t be afraid to ask everywhere you go if they offer this discount as many places will instill the policy just in time for Spring Break business. You might even get lucky and find free access to a club or a great discount on a meal.

6. Hit the Road
Nothing says good times like a road trip with your closest friends. It doesn’t matter if you’re heading to your preferred Spring Break destination or you just want to check out new places while you have the free time. With a road trip you’ll be in control of how much fun you have during your break. If you find your chosen destination boring or too crowded you can always turn around and check out a hidden beach or somewhere you’d never thought to go before. Road trips are also great because they tend to be a bit cheaper than flying, especially if you’re traveling with a few people. The more people you have with you the more ways you can split the gas and hotel expenses. You may find that your road trip leads you to find some amazing little nooks in the country which will give you a sense of freedom and accomplishment when you go back to your everyday life.

7. Drinks
It wouldn’t be Spring Break without the drinks, if you’re of age. However, buying drinks can be a pretty big downfall when you’re living on a budget. The average price of a drink at a bar can cost you as much as an entire meal and that’s before the prices rise for the Spring Break crowd. Instead of going out to a bar or club to enjoy some drinks you may want to check out the price of beverages at the local grocery store or alcohol store. It might be a lot more frugal to buy drinks in bulk and split the cost with your friends. Of course, going out for Spring Break is sometimes unavoidable, especially if your friends just won’t take no for an answer. So, if you do find yourself looking to buy a drink in a restaurant, bar or club you should always look for the items that are on tap and stay away from mixed drinks. This will save you a little bit of money so you won’t have to worry about spending midway through the trip.

8. Visit Family
If your Spring Break plans still aren’t secured you may want to consider taking a trip to see some family. Sometimes our relatives live in the coolest places, so a quick trip to catch up might be just what you need this Spring Break. The best thing about visiting family is you tend not to have to pay for hotels or as much food, which helps a whole lot on your budget. You also know a little bit more about the city or town you’re visiting so you’ll be able to hit up your favorite spots without spending hours running around aimlessly. This trip will also allow you to share some stories with family an find out what everyone has been up to. This can be pretty rewarding and might even leave you feeling refreshed for your return back to the real world.

9. Plan Ahead
One of the major problem with a lot of Spring Break trips is the lack of planning that goes into them. Usually people are satisfied to have their flight and hotel taken care of that they absolutely forget to do a little more planning. This is all fine and dandy until you arrive at your hotel and realize you don’t know what to do. Roaming around free and checking things out can be a whole lot of fun. On the other hand, you might miss out on some pretty big events while your wandering the streets looking for the beach. Instead of just winging it, try doing a little extra research about the area you’ll be in. You may come up with some exciting concerts, fun fairs or other special events that will make your vacation so much better. If this is the case then you may even be able to save more money by purchasing the tickets ahead of time online. A lot of venues prefer this method and provide reduced prices for customers who think ahead. Typically research doesn’t take a whole lot of time to do as most big events are posted on a community page or your destination’s social media page. So, don’t miss out on the action because you forgot to do some research.

10. Stay Home
If all else fails you could always stay home and catch up on some you time before you have to get back to the everyday grind. Staying home certainly means spending less money, especially if you find ways to entertain yourself for free. Try asking around to see if anyone is holding parties during the break, or if there’s any major events going on in your area. One of the more relaxing ways to enjoy the break is to sit down and catch up on your shows or movies that you haven’t had a chance to see because of work and school. You might even learn to cook a new dish or two instead of going out to eat. Of course, one of the best things about staying home for the break is you can finish up all of those nasty assignments your professors conveniently assigned on the last day off class. This can make easing into finals a whole lot easier for you.

Spring Break certainly means different things to different people. With these easy tips you should be able to find the relaxing trip you need without trying to scrape up the cash to get there. Afterall, Spring Break is designed to help you have some fun in the warmer weather. It isn’t here to force you to stress over finances and all of the problems that accumulated over the winter. So, stop and breathe and find the best way to provide yourself with the best vacation at a price that won’t leave you hurting at the week’s end.

With March just around the corner it is time to cut loose and enjoy some Mardi Gras celebrations. This exciting and fun holiday allows adults to enjoy themselves and break away from the stress of every day life. Unfortunately, Mardi Gras can also cause a whole lot of financial stress and burden if you’re not careful how you spend your money. There’s a lot of ways to cut down on how you spend your money during the holiday period though. With a few simple tips you’ll be ready to have the time of your life without actually spending a ton of money that you’ll have to budget through in the upcoming months. After following these tips you should be able to find a more relaxed way to enjoy yourself while keeping the money in your pocket.

1. Plan Ahead
A lot of people love to get out of the house and see Mardi Gras first hand in New Orleans. This might be a bit of a stretch for many, but if you’re looking at a mini vacation you can save a whole lot by simply planning ahead. You should start working on your trip before the New Year’s if you’re looking to save more money on a trip. The first thing you should worry about is securing your airline tickets, if you prefer to travel this way. You should be able to get a really good deal several months prior to the actual holiday, but you should also keep an eye out for Mardi Gras sales on your favorite travel sites. A hotel should be booked well in advance too, especially if you want to stay close to the action. Usually these hotels will book up pretty quickly so you want to ensure you have a reservation. Once you have all the fine details in order you can worry about reserving tickets and putting money back in your savings account. This should ensure that you get your trip all planned out and paid for well before its time to pack your bag.

2. Local Events
Traveling to celebrate Mardi Gras usually isn’t the cheapest way to celebrate. However, there are usually a lot of local events that might leave you feeling like you’re in New Orleans. A lot of towns will hold parades for the fun event, so check your local listings to see if there will be anything in store for the period of time. Even if there isn’t a lot going on in your specific town you might want to check out surrounding areas to see what they’re doing. Sometimes cities will hold a larger party downtown that will seem like the real deal when you can’t afford to travel that far. If you can’t find any big events then try asking around local clubs and bars to see if they’re holding any special events. Sometimes you’ll be able to find a fun party that incorporates costumes, beads and the rest of the classic Mardi Gras party favors.

3. Drink at Home
During holidays drinks tend to escalate in price, especially if you’re heading to a bar to celebrate. One of the best ways to cut down on money is to actually drink before you go out and enjoy yourself. You can easily have a few friends over to start the party off right which will really get you in the spirit more than waiting in line to get a drink. You can even start up a few drinking games to get everyone in the mood to go out and enjoy themselves. With a few drinks already in your system you’ll be able to skip out on starting a tab at a bar, which can save you the most money while you’re celebrating the season. If you’re looking to save even more you can have friends each bring over their favorite beverage to try, so everyone can get a pretty good sample without spending a lot of money. When you do go out try to avoid the bar and just have some fun without paying for the over priced drinks.

4. Make Costumes
One of the greatest parts of Mardi Gras is the fun costumes that make this holiday stand out. Typically buying a costume for Mardi Gras can cost you a small fortune, especially if you’re looking for a really classic look. There’s a lot of stores online that can offer discounted costumes, but you won’t save a whole lot of money unless you put in a little work to create your own costume. Usually you can find some really great fabrics that will make a gorgeous dress, but if you’re looking to save you might want to stick to solid colors. You should also be able to print out a pattern for a classic dress or men’s costume, but if you can’t find what you’re looking for most patterns don’t cost more than $10. If you want to keep it simple then you can easily come up with your own mask. There’s a lot of print out designs that can be made from items already found in the home, such as paper mache. You can even get the kids in on this project, which will make the holiday seem even more fun.

5. Cheap Accessories
When it comes to Mardi Gras nothing will make your day fun quite like the accessories. Mardi Gras is known for its color selection of beads that everyone wears throughout the celebrations. You might also want to buy some crowns, hats or other party accessories to help make your holiday great. These items can be purchased at most department stores, but if you really want to save you should try out your local dollar stores first. Most dollar stores will offer you bulk Mardi Gras supplies that will surface your expectations. You might even be able to supply your entire party with beads for less money than you’d expect. A lot of stores won’t cater the exact crowns you might want to wear to a party, but if you think out of the box you shouldn’t have to spend more than a couple dollars to look great this season. You should also be able to find very cheap masks in these stores, which can knock out your entire costume for under $10.

6. Find a Playlist
A lot of party hosts tend to want to go out and buy a few albums just for their party. This can be an expensive nightmare if you aren’t really sure about the music you’re buying. Instead of worrying about owning the music you want to play at your party you could always fall back on your internet radio. A lot of programs allow you to listen to just about anything for free, so try making a playlist based on what you’d like to hear at the party. If you’re not sure what you should play then try surfing other Mardi Gras playlist that other users have made. This can lead you to some pretty exciting music that you would have never thought to add to your own list. If you aren’t keen on any list then mix elements you like from different list into your own special list. Most of these radio programs are totally free, but if you’re worried about guests getting irritated with commercials you might want to splurge for a month’s subscription to the premium services.

7. Potluck
If you plan on hosting your own party this year then you might want to think twice about making all of the food for yourself. A lot of traditional dishes for the holiday tend to cost a whole lot of money to make and might have you spending a lot of time in the kitchen instead of enjoying yourself. Instead of taking all of the burden onto yourself you may want to call your party a potluck and allow guests to bring in their favorite holiday meals. Sure, you’ll probably get the random bag of chips or fast food meal, but a lot of people might have some fun takes on their favorite Mardi Gras delicacy. The potluck will also allow everyone to try out some amazing meals that they might want to learn how to make throughout the year. You may even be able to try some authentic recipes that you have never even heard of before. With guests bringing in foods you’ll be able to cut the major cost of the party though, which will certainly cut down on your Mardi Gras stress.

8. No Disposables
Although disposable dinnerware is the most convenient thing ever when it comes to a party, it can be one of the worst things to do for your budget. Plastic utensils and paper plates can be bought pretty cheap, but when you end up adding the cost of these items for the entire party it starts to add up. Instead of worrying about the clean up you might want to consider pulling out your plates for an authentic Mardi Gras dinner party. This will allow guest to dress up, sit down and enjoy a nice conversation over your traditional foods. Disposable dinnerware won’t just take out the romanticism of the party, but will cause you to maximize the trash your produce during the party which isn’t great for the environment.

9. Create Decorations
You don’t have to go all out to decorate for Mardi Gras. In fact, spending too much money on decorations might really take away from the fun of the holiday. With a few simple craft supplies you should be able to make some amazing Mardi Gras decorations that everyone will be able to appreciate. One of the easiest and most inexpensive décor items is simple paper chains. Grab a few pieces of green and purple construction paper and cut them into strips. You can easily assemble the chains with tape or glue and hang them from the ceiling for a cool look. You could also use some older craft paper to turn into confetti that can be left in various areas of the home. One of more fun ways to decorate is to print out different images of masks and crowns and have the kids color them. You can cut out these item and put them on the walls of your home.

10. Make up Games
Entertaining guests might be tough during Mardi Gras, but if you can utulize a few games you might find the entire party will go smoothly. Mardi Gras is filled with trickster games and lots of dancing so try to incorporate a little bit into each game. You might want to have a dance off to let guests burn some energy before winding down for the night. Of course, if you’re hosting a more relaxed party then consider coming up with a Mardi Gras trivia game. You might also want to have guests play a little charades, which could end up taking up the majority of the party. If this is the case then you might want to add in some options to draw out images to keep the game feeling new. Murder Mystery games are also a whole lot of fun, so look online for a few ideas if can’t come up with your own in a hurry. If you’re entertaining children then try to print out some color pages, word searches or bingo pages with a Mardi Gras flair.

Mardi Gras is all about enjoying yourself, so step back and forget about finances for awhile. With these tips you should be able to plan your own party, vacation or outing to make your holiday even more fun. Now, you can easily just let the day flow by without having to stress over your activities or the money you spent to get a party under way.

St. Patrick’s Day can be one of the best holidays to get in touch with your inner Irish, but it can also mean spending a lot of green to have some fun. There’s a lot of things to see and do on this exciting holiday, but if you’re not careful you may find yourself spending way too much money on items and events that normally wouldn’t cost you much at all. Luckily, there’s plenty of low budget things you can do to enjoy your holiday to the max. It doesn’t matter if you’re looking to make your holiday an event for the entire family or if you’re planning to get out on the town with some friends, because with these tips you’ll be able to suit your budget and still have fun.

1. Put on the Green
If you’ve ever gone out on St. Patrick’s Day without a little green, then you know you’re looking at a tragic day. The best thing you can do to maximize your fun on this holiday is to put on something green before you step foot out of your bedroom. A lot of people feel like they need to go out and buy something brand new just for the holiday. This can really waste a lot of your money and will cause you to go on a unnecessary spending spree. Before you go out on St. Patrick’s Day you should raid your closet for something that is already green. A simple t-shirt, blouse or blazer should do the trick. However, if you’re missing out on some green in the wardrobe then accessories are the best way to go. For instance, you can really transform as outfit with a green tie or scarf to keep yourself safe from all the painful pinches. You might even consider green jewelry, socks or bags to help you comply with the green need. You can even make a quick bracelet with green construction paper if you’re lacking in the green department. If you do feel the urge to buy a holiday specific shirt then try to keep it to one and reuse it every year so you can get your money’s worth.

2. Parades
You might be surprised as to how many towns and cities throw a St. Patrick’s Day parade each year. This is one of the best ways to share the holiday with your friends and family and will cost you next to nothing to see. If you’re not sure about your town or cities parade then try to call your local community center to see if and when the parade will be held. If your area is planning a parade then you might want to ask about parking as this could be the only expense. If parking fees will be active then you may want to consider taking public transportation or walking to the area in which the parade is held. If you know the streets in which the parade will go through then you can always choose an area that has the least amount of parking fees. You should always try to get to the parade early though as there are often freebies thrown from the floats which are easier to get if you have a front row spot. If your town isn’t holding a parade then you may want to see if a surrounding area is.

3. Eat From Home
One of the biggest costs for St. Patrick’s Day is the restaurant bill. Most restaurants probably won’t cater Irish food on a daily basis, which means they will probably charge a little extra for your holiday meal. Instead of going out you may want to utilize a few new recipes to help make your holiday a little more authentic. There’s a lot of recipes available online that utilize both expensive and inexpensive ingredients. If you’re not up to trying things that take up a lot of time then refine your search for easy Irish recipes and enjoy the wide selection. If you’re really on a tight budget then you might want to try out a few classic recipes that will cost you cents per person. One of the more popular choices is a can of corned beef hash, toast and some fried eggs. This meal will have everyone feeling full and will bring out your Irish heritage.

4. Buy Beer in Bulk
St. Patrick’s Day is one of the biggest drinking occasions of the year and beer company’s know it! If you’re planning on having a few drinks this holiday then you’ll probably want to shop for your beer in bulk. Usually the beverage price is raised just in time for people to celebrate spending more on their favorite brews. Typically drafts like Guinness and other famous Irish beers tend to escalate in price more than you’d expect. So, instead of spending a small fortune on a mere six pack, you might want to go ahead and buy the bigger package and split the cost with your friends. Sometimes stores will have a pre-holiday sale that will help make your bulk purchases a little more affordable. Of course, if you’re looking to find the best deal then you may want to do some online shopping a few weeks before the big day.

5. Go with Groupon
If you don’t already have plans for the occasion then you might want to skip the planning altogether and see what Groupon has to offer you closer to the holiday. Usually Groupon will come up with a lot off different green inspired packages that could leave you having the time of your life. It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for a romantic date night or a group event for your friends, as Groupon tends to have a wide selection of choices that will suit the occasion. The best thing is Groupon often allows you to purchase a package at a huge discount which will really help make your holiday seem all the more lucky. If you’re really feeling the deal you might be able to span your holiday into a weekly event that will leave you feeling like you’ve vacation in Ireland.

6. See a Gig
One of the most exhilarating experiences for the holiday is to see an Irish inspired band. There’s a lot of these bands in the country so you won’t have to look far to find one in your local area. Usually your community listings will show each of the Irish gigs going on in your area. Of course, local bars will probably get in on the Irish band action as well. It might take a little calling around, but you should be able to find a great band in no time. If there is a selection of bands in the area then you might want to look each band up to see which one you would prefer to watch. This will help you get the most out of your money. If you’re looking for a band in a child friendly area then try looking up outdoor events in your area. Sometimes towns will hold fairs around the holiday or will have parades that incorporate the special bands. If you do find an event you don’t want to miss then you should purchase tickets in advance. Usually these bands can sell out on St. Patrick’s Day, so booking early won’t just guarantee you a seat, but will also help you save a little on the ticket price.

7. Use an App
Sometimes utilizing your phone will help you save the most on your holiday expenses. With smart phones the height of popularity there’s a ton of apps designed to save you money. So, instead of going crazy trying to find a restaurant that’s actually open you may want to open up your favorite local apps to find a place that isn’t booked. You may even be able to find an app that can show you which places have the best sales on Irish foods and drinks, which will help you find a budget friendly way to celebrate. Sometimes an app will show up that will show you where places are giving out a free beer or are having an exciting happy hour sale. You’ll be surprised as to how much your smart phone can actually cut the price of your holiday adventures.

8. Movies
A lot of people just want to spend the night in instead of going through the chaotic celebrating in the street. If this is the case then you might want to settle in with a nice Irish movie. Although it is often hard to find some of the movies that are actually made in Ireland there is a lot of companies willing to cater these movies to you. You may want to start by looking for a list of Irish movies so you can find a couple that will suit your tastes. Once you have your selections then try looking on Netflix, Hulu or any other service you might subscribe to. If you don’t have any luck here then you might want to look on online rental sites, which generally have a broad selection. Of course, if you don’t want to do a whole lot of research you may find that a lot of subscription services, like Netflix, will already have a special holiday section in your cue. So, grab your favorite brand of colored green popcorn and enjoy the show.

9. Listen to Music
Nothing will allow you to feel the spirit of the holiday quite like listening to some classic Irish songs. If you’re not big into the Irish theme throughout the year then don’t worry about purchasing a single song. Instead, jump on your favorite internet radio and search through playlist of users who have created their own St. Patrick’s Day playlist. You’ll love the music selection so much that you might even feel inspired to do a little Irish dancing. If this is the case you might be able to find some fun videos that will teach you how to do some amazing classic dances. You will also be able to combine some of the amazing music you just found with some of the fun dance moves. This makes a great activity for the entire family and will help form plenty of memories everyone will want to relive throughout the years.

10. Decorations
It isn’t quite a holiday without the fun decorations! There’s a lot of ways you can keep your home looking amazing without having to spend a lot of money. One way is to shop dollar stores for their St. Patrick’s Day goodies. Usually you can find everything from golden coin candies to fun little shamrocks to that will really make your home look fantastic. You can even take some of the decorations you found at the store to create your own amazing decorations. Of course, if you’re really looking to save a lot of money you may want to create your own decorations. This can be one of the best ways to get kids to interact with the holiday. Try printing out holiday coloring sheets for the kids. Usually there’s a lot of easy to color pictures of leprechauns, shamrocks, pots of gold and rainbows. You can easily have the kids cut out the pictures and put them on the walls. You can also ask children to draw their own pictures for an entirely original look you can save for years.

St. Patrick’s Day can be one of the most fun holidays of the year if you know how to plan it correctly. With these simple tips you’ll be able to afford a holiday that will keep everyone happy with their holiday experience. So, stop trying to plan out your day and let the luck of the Irish make your holiday cheap and remarkably fun.

Everyone loves to sit down with a good book every now and then. However, if your love of reading is your biggest hobby then you might be looking at spending $100s every year. There is hope for the book lover though, as there are many ways to help limit the amount of money you spend on your entertainment so you can help your mind grow without the added stress of finances. The community around us is here to help take the burden off of book costs so people can continue to grow through reading. Finding ways to save money on books can be especially important if you have children who are just learning to read. There’s no need to stress to the entertainment budget anymore just to accommodate the readers in your home. These ten tips will have you prepared to save money in some unexpected ways.

1. Buy Online
When it comes to shopping for books, both used and new, the internet is certainly the place to go. You can find everything from top sellers to classic collector’s editions without having to spend hours on the prowl. One great thing about shopping online for books is you can always find the best possible price. For instance, websites like Amazon will often give you their list price while connecting you to other users who are selling the same book. This gives you ample options to choose from and won’t force you to check out on an unsecured page. One great thing about buying books here is you can purchase them from anywhere in the world and some won’t cost you more than a single penny before shipping costs. There’s also a whole lot of other sites available that sell used books for relatively cheap. You may even be able to find some of your favorite independent authors work at a lower price than you’d pay in your local book store. The internet also provides you with a number of websites that will actually allow you to rent books, which comes in handy with college text books.

2. Utilize Your Tablet
The latest craze for book worms across the world is to use a tablet to enjoy your favorite books. There’s a lot of different brands available to choose from, so before you pick out a reader or tablet you might want to do some research. Tablets are great for saving the average reader a lot of money though. Many websites will actually give away books on certain days so readers can constantly have something new to check out. Apart from access to free books giveaways, there is also a wide selection of free access classics that can be downloaded from just about any book site. If that’s not enough then it might please you to know that a lot of e-reader books are actually sold at a much cheaper price. This allows customers to feel a little less guilty about their book purchases. Of course, if you are looking to purchase one of those newly released best sellers you might not be in for such a great deal. However, if you do purchase the tangible copy of the book a lot of stores will actually allow you to download the e-book edition for prices as low as $1.

3. Used Bookstores
If you prefer to keep your shopping locally then you might want to consider checking out some used book stores. These stores generally house a collection of books that range in genre and price. Typically, the books are priced by the condition they’re in, but you might find several copies of once popular books at a low price. Used bookstores are one of the best ways to start up a collection and will give you a great place to meet other book lovers. The best thing about shopping at a used book store is you never really know what you’re going to find. There’s always a story hidden in the massive piles of books, so keep looking. You might even be able to find some collector’s editions at a great price. If your town doesn’t have a used book store, or you’re just looking for more variety then you can easily try to check out your local thrift stores to see what they have to offer. You might be surprised by the prices and the amazing selection.

4. Library
If you’re looking to explore your interest in books or just want to save a whole lot of money then you might want to adventure to your local library. There’s nothing quite like spending an afternoon trying to find the perfect match for your mood. Usually libraries allow people to spend all day in them if they feel the need, so you can always settle down with a book there. Of course, its hard to go into a library and not want to take a book or three home with you. As long as you have a valid and current library card then most libraries will allow you to check out several books for a brief period at no cost. As long as you keep an eye on the due dates you should be fine to read the books at no cost to you. Of course, if you don’t have time to finish them off most libraries will let you recheck them at no additional cost, as long as there isn’t a waiting line.

5. Sales
There’s nothing quite as satisfying as buying a bunch of books at half of the price. Usually if you can withstand the urges to buy a new book then waiting for a big sale can really satisfy your book cravings for quite some time. Usually book stores frequently have sales on different books so you might want to call ahead to see what genre is on sale each week. This helps stores push out older stocks so they can make room for newer shipments. If you’re not choosy about the genre you read then browsing your favorite stores weekly might help you find some good deals. You might also want to wait around for a holiday though. Usually during major and minor holidays there’s pretty frequent deals on books that could get your over 50% off some of your wish listed books.

6. Wait on New Releases
If you’re a huge fan of a write or series then you might want to hold tight after a new release. Its pretty tempting to want to stand in line, get the autograph and enjoy the book before everyone can release their favorite spoiler moments to you. However, if you want to save some money on books then it might be a good idea to step away from the release party and wait for the book demand to go down. This usually takes a couple of weeks to a month, so you might have to avoid some of friends that might be into the same series. You’ll be thankful once the price tag has dropped down to the price of a normal book though. A lot of modern books are also released in a hardback edition when they are first released. This can really add on to the cost of your purchase, so you may want to wait a bit longer for the cheaper paperback edition to hit the shelves.

7. Giveaways
Book fans and writers can be some of the more generous hobbyist. This may come in handy for you as there are countless book giveaways going on every single day. One easy and fun way to sign up for giveaways is through a site called Goodreads. This page connects to your social media pages and will let everyone know what you’re reading, your favorite genres and what you plan to read. This site also gives you access to a wide assortment of giveaway books each day. You’ll be able to search through several pages of giveaways to find something you might enjoy. Of course, there are plenty of other pages that giveaway books. If you have a favorite author then you might frequent their pages to see if they have an open giveaway. You should also check out various social media pages as you never know when you’ll find something worth entering.

8. Skip the Classics
If you love reading the classics then you might avoid spending the extra money to get these books on your shelf. In fact, there’s a lot of books that range in certain time periods that are actually free access to anyone interested in catching up with some of the iconic tales. You’ll find everything from Frankenstein to some of the first pieces or written literature, like Beowulf. The great thing about free access books is you can download them from just about any book store. You should be able to find numerous websites with the items, so choose what format best suits you and get ready to read the weekend away. Having the classics at your will can help you save money on books that you might end up purchasing out of boredom.

9. Avoid Over Indulgence
We’re all guilty of purchasing a book, leaving it on the shelf, and forgetting about it. This can be one of the worst ways to waste money. Instead of buying books on the whim you should make out a list of books you’d like to read in the next few months. Once you’ve read one book then buy the next, but never go overboard and buy all of the books on your list. If you aren’t a big planner than try to steer clear of books you aren’t sure of. Instead, purchase book that you know you’re going to read over and over. When you start to feel adventurous then take to a book review site and find something that screams your name. By screening out the books you choose to purchase you’ll actually be able to avoid some of those iffy books that always get pushed to the back of the reading list. Of course, if you really want to stop the over indulgence you should create a rule that you have to read all the unread books on the shelf before you can buy new ones. It might take some time before you find yourself surfing for something new.

10. Share
One of the best ways to get the most out of your books is to share them with people you love. If you have a lot of friends that adore reading them put together a group. This will allow you to share favorites with one another so you won’t have to buy as many books as before. The best thing is once you’re finished with a friend’s book then you can easily enjoy conversations about the book. The bigger your group is the more sharing you’ll be able to do, which will not only open you up to new books but will keep your money in your pockets. Sure, you might end up buying a new book every once in awhile, but you’ll still have a lot more reading on your plate before you can end up going to the bookstore again. A lot of e-readers actually offer the borrowing option too, which can turn your purchases around entirely!

Books can lead you on so many different adventures that not only help you grow as a person, but takes away from the stress of life. With books around things just seem to be so much better, which makes it no surprise people are willing to spend so much money on them. These ten tips should help cut down on the amount of book spending you do in a year though. So, instead of feeling overwhelmed by your growing debt and ever increasing library you can relax and enjoy each book page by page.

Everyone teen has that first concert that opens them up to the wonderful world of live music. From seeing heroes in person to hearing that special song live, there’s nothing quite like feeling the energy of a concert. Unfortunately, a lot of concerts can really tap out your spending money. The more popular the show the more you’re going to end up spending, which could really leave you missing out on some major shows in your lifetime. Of course, there are several ways to get around some of those high price costs though. With a little extra research and motivation you could be sitting in your favorite show for a whole lot less than other people opted to pay, which won’t just make your night great but will help improve your financially savvy skills.

1. Take to the Internet
Although camping out in front of a venue might be the ideal of buying concert tickets, there is a much easier way to it. With modern technology there is now a faster and easier way to get tickers without having to risk catching a cold before the big day. Of course, convenience isn’t always the best way to buy tickets, but when it comes to shopping online you’re more than likely going to save some major money too. When you choose to buy your tickets online you’re already giving yourself the opportunity to shop around which will guarantee you a better price every time. There’s nothing like standing in line at a venue only to find out you could have save $20 if you’d just stayed at home in your pajamas. There’s a lot of online tickets sale sites so make sure to do a little research before your tickets hit the market. With any luck you’ll be online and ready to go as soon as they’re released.

2. Press Pass
If you’re into photography, blogging, work for a newspaper or anything that might be considered the press then you can apply for a press pass. These passes work different at individual venues so you might have to call and ask around before your rely on this pass to get you into a show. On the other hand, most press passes will anyone considered to be the press a free or discounted ticket that will ensure you get front row seats to the show. This can be one of the most exciting experience for concert lovers, so if you’re interested in this type of pass then you may want to get a jump start on your own personal blog. You might have to go to greater lengths to prove you’re the press so don’t try to it unless you’re actually running a blog or working for a paper, but once you’re in you’ll really get a spectacular experience.

3. Venue Loyalty
There’s nothing quite like having a venue you can call a second home. From all the memories of past shows to the anticipation of new shows, becoming a loyal customer to one venue can really help you save some major cash. A lot of venues will offer season passes which can get you into to just about any show for free or a significantly discounted price. This can be a great way to save a lot of money if you tend to frequent one location often. Finding a venue that seems to cater to your interests can be the hard par though. With a little research you should be able to find a place that you will feel comfortable spending your weekends checking out the latest music. Some venues will even recognize their regulars with a small discount without any extra purchases. You may even be able to grab some free snacks or will be given advanced information about upcoming shows.

4. Join a Street Team
Joining a street team can really make you a part of the whole concert experience. Although you probably won’t be able to do this for main stream concerts you may have the opportunity to help boost up a smaller gig. Typically a stream team member is in charge of promoting the upcoming band’s gig. This can include simple jobs like passing out fliers, setting up the venue and checking tickets. You may also be asked to use your social media accounts to help you pass around the world while encouraging new people to check out the band. Usually you’re given a free pass into the show for all of your hard work. However, some street teams will even let you back stage to hang out with the band or will give you a small wage for your troubles. So, if you’re interested in becoming a part of the show, rather than just watching it, you might want to ask around local venues to see if they’re looking for street team members.

5. Volunteer
If there isn’t a street team available in your area, or you aren’t really into advertising then try to volunteer. Most venues tend to need a little extra help, especially if they’re looking at a bigger show. When you hear about a fun concert try calling up the venue to see if they’re going to need a little extra help during the show. You might be asked to check tickets, do a little security work, or hand out beverages, so be prepared to provide qualifications that allow you to do this in a public area. The bad thing about volunteering is you might not be able to see the show first hand, but you will be able to hear the music while you’re working. Of course, if there’s multiple shows throughout the night you might talk to the supervisor and see if you can take time off during your preferred concert to listen in. Even if you can’t get the time off you’ll still get to hear your band for free and will have some volunteer work for your resume.

6. Avoid Parking
It doesn’t matter if your concert tickets are cheap or cost a fortune because parking is going to cost you a lot either way. There is fortunately a whole lot of ways to avoid parking at a concert. Usually if you can catch a ride to the show you’ll be free to avoid the high charges and will be able to enjoy a drink without having to worry about the drive home. Of course, if you can’t find anyone willing to drive you then you may want to ask around about a carpool. With the shared cost of the parking fees you should be able to get in and out of the concert without spending too much. If you can it might be best to try public transportation. Usually you can buy a pass for the night at a fraction of the cost of the parking fees. You might also consider taking a taxi with a group as the shared cost won’t cost you as much as having to park your car for a few hours.

7. Secondary Sellers
Sometimes unforeseen things get in the way of a concert, which can really be terrible when you’ve bought your tickets well in advance. There’s a lot of people online who are trying to find a way to get some money back on a show they just can’t attend. A lot of ticket vendors will actually buy tickets from these unfortunate people so they can pass them along to you at a discounted price. This can be one of the cheapest ways to purchase tickets, but you’ll still probably end up paying next to regular price. A lot of people will also sell the tickets on sites like Craig’s List. This can be very dangerous for buyers as they might not be real tickets. If you choose to go this route then you should make sure the tickets are real before your purchase them. Although there are a lot of honest people just trying to get some money back on their purchase, some people will try to rip you off. Make sure to look up reviews on the seller and look over the tickets closely.

8. Utilize Credit Card
When it comes to purchasing things like credit cards you might be surprised as to how great your credit card company can be. A lot of card companies will actually give you a lot of points with the purchase of tickets, which can help you make up some of the money you lost of the tickets. Of course, one of the best things about credit card points is you can also use your reward points on the ticket prices themselves. This will essentially give you a free concert that might seem to make the music even sweeter. Of course, if you don’t get to use the points on the concert then you may get a boost for this year’s annual vacation or other must haves you been waiting for. Some credit card companies might even give you early access to ticket purchases, so make sure you know what your company will do for you.

9. Listen In
Sometimes tickets sale out a bit too fast, or we just don’t have the money to go. However, there is always one way to get back into the game and doesn’t take anything but a keen ear and fast dialing finger. Most radio stations end up buying tickets for major concerts in the area. So, one of the easiest ways to try to get to your dream concert is to tune into the radio station and hope for the best. A lot of stations will offer the tickets to a special called which is probably one of the easier ways to win. You just have to make sure you’re fast and ready to go when the competition starts. Other stations or host might require you to answer a series of questions or recognize a song though. So it might be in your best interest to brush up on some basic trivia, questions about the band, or your musical knowledge. With any luck you’ll be able to win the amazing pair of tickets and might even get to go back stage. Of course, this method isn’t guaranteed, but there really is no harm in trying.

10. Just Wait
Although it might not always seem ideal, waiting can be one of the best ways to save a whole lot on your tickets. Sometimes it is impossible to do this as tickets tend to sell out fast when a big name comes to town. However, if you’re not worried about missing the show then you may want to hang out and wait until 48 priors to the show. A lot of the time vendors will actually sell tickets cheaper as the show date gets closer. If you’re still looking to check out the concert a couple of days prior to the show then go to the vendor and ask if there is any tickets left. If there is you’ll usually get them for cheaper. Of course, the longer you wait the better the deal will be. If you’re really just looking for some fun on a week night then you can always wait until the actual day to see if your tickets are still available. Sometimes, this can be one of the fun ways of adding a spontaneous night to your week.

Going to a concert can be a right of passage for many teens, so don’t stress about letting your child down due to prices. You may find that these amazing tricks not only help you see some amazing shows, but also also brings a sense of worth ethic to teens who like to frequent shows. Either way you’ll end up enjoying your favorite bands without having to worry about going on a ramen diet for the rest of the year.

If you tend to spend a lot of time in your kitchen then you may have already considered purchasing a food processor. You don’t have to be a trained chef to know that a food processor is one of the best ways to get food ready to go for your growing family. Sometimes there is a lot of hesitance to buy a gadget as pricey as this one though, but once you get your new food processor you’ll wonder how you managed a budget without it. There’s a lot of ways your food processor will make you rejoice about your family’s menu rather than cringing at the cost of your weekly food. With these ten reasons you might find that you need to sit down and budget in a gadget that will actually pay for itself thanks to the huge savings it will create in the home.

1. Prep Work Made Easy
After a hard day there’s nothing as inconvenient as doing prep work for your family’s meal. Sometimes prepping to cook can take over half an hour which really cuts down on your leisure time. With a food processor in your kitchen you can actually cut this time down significantly. The best thing is you won’t even have to get your hands dirty. Simply throw in your fruits, veggies, flour or other ingredient and let the processor do the work for you. Even meatloaf night will become easier than ever thanks to this amazing machine. With your prep work being eliminated you’ll be able to shop a lot easier for your family. For instance, if you’re looking to create a tasty veggie dish you can totally bypass the canned and frozen section and go for the fresher and cheaper goods that will make the meal taste delicious. This will cut down on frivolous buys so you can enjoy healthier meals that take no time at all to cook.

2. Saves Time
We’ve all opted out of cooking because we’re just too tired or don’t have the time to do it. With a food processor in the home you won’t have an excuse to spend a lot of money on fast food and other pre-made meals that really destroy your budget. The processor gives you meals in fifteen minutes or less that are not only healthier, but will keep your tight budget in mind. Now, cooking doesn’t have to be a chore, so you won’t feel stressed when dinner time rolls around. The food processor will even help you get meals ready for the entire week in just about ten minutes. Simply follow a recipe and freeze the meal so all you have to do is pop it in the oven for a few minutes when you get home from work.

3. Bread
Most family’s spend a lot of their food budget on bread items. From buns, sandwich breads and rolls, bread takes up a lot of our diet. Unfortunately, your bread items can raise your food bill significantly. Breads are also harder to keep and often end up molding before they can be finished. With a food processor you’ll be able to make your own bread dough in a matter of minutes each day. Simply toss in the ingredients, use your bread dough setting on the food processor and leave the dough out to rise. When you’re ready you can throw the bread in the oven for a few minutes and you’re done. You can even make dough and freeze it for later use, so you won’t always have to worry about creating the dough when your family runs out of bread. Fresh bread not only taste fantastic, but it lacks a lot of the preservatives and other chemicals that aren’t great for you. You can also make your own pizza’s, bagels, dinner rolls, biscuits and sweet breads with a few simple and inexpensive ingredients. Once you start this process you’ll never want to go back to store bought breads and neither will your wallet.

4. Pet Foods
Everyone wants their pet to be healthy, but some of the healthier brands on the market can cost you more than you spend on your own food. With a food processor you’ll be able to make your own healthy pet foods without having to read the ingredient labels. You might not have thought about making your own pet food before, but with access to the internet you should be able to find some terrific recipes that will please both your dog and your vet. The best thing is you can use a lot of your own household’s leftovers to create a delicious meal for your pet. Whether you’re feeding a gigantic dog or a small kitten you should be able to find something special to make their diet healthier. Most of these recipes will call for a food processor to not only cut but mix the special ingredients.

5. Baby Food
Everyone wants to start their child off on the right foot when it comes to dieting. Although there are a lot of great baby food brands on the market, nothing quite fits the bill like homemade foods. With a food processor you’ll be able to create delicious meals for your baby without ever having to spend a fortune on the jarred foods that might contain preservatives and food coloring. With a food processor you’ll be able to have complete control of your child’s diet which could help lead to healthier food choices as the child grows. There’s a lot of online recipes for baby food that are absolutely free, so make sure you do a little research about your recipes. If you aren’t sure about your food choices then talk to your doctor or dietician for a little advice as to what is best for the baby. You’ll even be able to ease the baby onto solid foods easier thanks to the different levels of processing. One of the best aspects of making your own food is you won’t have to take time out of your day to worry about recycling all of those little jars!

6. Health Foods
When it comes to eating healthier nothing will help you create delicious meals quite like a food processor. If you love special salads, vegetable stir fries or fruit salads then you can have a meal ready in a matter of seconds. A lot of food processor will even have a fun add on that makes creating smoothies and other drinks a breeze. You’ll love waking up to a delicious smoothie in the morning without the huge retail price or frustration of going to a smoothie store and waiting in line. Of course, there are a lot of other out of the box ways that a food processor can help you eat healthier. For instance, you can easily mix up your own peanut butter to avoid some of the unhealthy aspect of commercial brands. You can also replace some of your pasta dishes with vegetable cut like pasta. Of course, if you have the special add on you can even make your own fresh pasta at home without the preservatives. Your healthy lifestyle will be so much easier and cheaper to maintain.

7. No Spoiled Leftovers
Many households tend to throw out a lot of food throughout the week. These leftovers sit in the refrigerator for days and no one seems to touch them. This can really add up to a huge loss of money at the end of the week. With a food processor you’ll be more apt to make something out of the uneaten foods. It doesn’t matter if its meatloaf, corn or some unwanted mashed potatoes, as there are plenty of leftover recipes that can transform the way your family spends money on food. Some of the more popular recipes involve fruit spreads from unused pie filling. With any luck you should be able to fund something special the entire family will enjoy. You’ll love how easy it is to clear out the refrigerator at the end of the week and how very little there are smells from spoiled foods in your kitchen. The best thing is you’ll find ways to renew interest in tired recipes that might otherwise go to waste.

8. Other Appliances
If you have a kitchen counter filled with appliance then a food processor might be just what you need. This one kitchen gadget can actually do the job of so many product you’ve purchased before. This can be a great way to clean off those counters to make room for something that’s really going to transform the way you cook. If you’re really looking to save big you can sell off all those unused products in order to help cut down the price of your chosen processor. This might even allow you to find the cash to purchase the upgraded processor or accessories that might come in handy. One of the best things is you won’t actually need or want to buy any other gadgets after you have your food processor up and running. This could cut down hundreds on your annual kitchen purchases, which will make your savings account happy.

9. Cookbooks
Many people tend to purchase cookbooks to help spice up life while adding something new to the family’s diet. Most food processors tend to come with a basic cookbook to help you create a culinary masterpieces with only the processor and a source of heat to work with. Of course, once you go through these exciting recipes you might begin to feel adventurous. This is always one of the fun parts of cooking and thanks to your processor it should be free as well. There’s so many recipes posted online by people who adore their food processor so you should be able to find something to suit your family. In fact, some people have websites designed around simple recipes that makes your cooking time fast, fun and delicious. All you have to do is look around and you’re set for recipes for some time. Without the cook book prices you’ll be able to spend a bit more on special ingredients for new meals!

10. Less Mess
One of the worst parts of cooking is cleaning up the huge mess afterward. If you’re planning on cooking a meal without the food processor then there’s a pretty good chance your clean up time is going to skyrocket. From cutting boards to knives and other utensils, you’ll be in for the long haul when everyone is finished eating. A food processor takes a lot of this clean up away though. Once you use the machine simply rinse it out and reuse it to create another dish for the meal. When you’re done prepping your food give it a quick wash and you’re pretty much finished with any prep clean up there is. This will not only create a time saver for you, but it will also cut down on a lot of things. For instance, the less you have to clean means the less water you’ll have to use while cleaning up the dishes. You’ll also be able cut down on the amount of soap needed to clean up your messes. This decrease on the water and necessities bill can make a big difference at the end of the year.

If you’ve been thinking about getting a food processor for your home then it might be time to make the commitment. With these ten ways you’ll save money there’s no reason why a food processor shouldn’t be one of the main tools you use while feeding your family. You may even find that spending time in the kitchen is fun again, which can make working on meals and creating new recipes an important part of your day. So, stop thinking of cooking as a chore and use your food processor to create some joy in the home.

Everyone likes to cut loose on the dance floor every now and then, but the price of clubbing can really take a toll on the way you spend money throughout the week. From shopping for new clothes, buying drinks and paying admission fees you could find yourself financially hurting in only a few hours. There’s many ways that you can transform your clubbing experience from a financial fiasco into a budget friendly way to blow off some steam though. So, get ready to take your party life to the next level as you frequent your favorite dance headquarters without despairing over the amount of money you tend loose on clubbing on each week. With these tips you won’t have to skip out on lunch at work, just to have a few hours of fun on the dance floor.

1. Designated Driver
When it comes to clubbing there might not anything wiser than appointing a designated driver before you start your night out. This step should be completed before you follow through with plans as it might be a life saver for you and those you choose to party with. Although it isn’t always fun to be the designated driver, by skipping out on the alcohol for one night you’ll end up saving your entire group a whole lot of money in cab fares. Make sure your group takes turns so that everyone gets a chance to have some fun throughout the next few months. A lot of clubs will actually offer a discount to those that offer to be a designated driver, so make sure to call ahead and ask so you can get the benefits that a designated driver deserves. You should also always choose a driver you’re comfortable with as you don’t won’t to end up at the club and find out your driver decided to back on driving duty midway through the night. Without a driver you and your friends are looking at a hefty taxi fare that could be tripled due to the size of the group.

2. High Dollar Clubs
When it comes to choosing a club to party in you can do a whole lot of judging based on the admission price. If you’re waiting in line hours in order to get into a club that’s going to charge you a lot then you might want to skip out on this location. Chances are by the time you get in you’ll already have wasted a god portion of the night which won’t help you get your money’s worth. Clubs that charge a high admission fee often have high priced drinks so make to watch out for this too. A lot of the time it can be too chaotic to find out the price of a drink, so don’t order from these locations unless you know for a fact how much everything is. Instead of spending your hard earned money at these locations try a smaller club. These clubs usually help you get more for your money and will also be less crowded so you won’t have to worry about how much room is on the dance floor. Of course, the only time it might be acceptable to pay a higher admission fee is to see one of your favorite artist. If this is the case you might try to book admission in advance so you can skip the line and have the guarantee that you will be let into the show.

3. Trusted Friends
Not a lot of people want to go out clubbing on their own. Of course, not a lot of people want to go out with people who might make the night turn disastrous either. If you enjoy going to the clubs you might try to figure out which of your trusted friends have the same interest. If you can put together a small group of people to go out with then you may be able to save a whole lot of money. Many clubs will offer discounted tables for those who come in as a group. You will also always have a support group with you which could help you enjoy the time out more and ensure you won’t end up leaving in a taxi before you’d originally planned. A trusted group of friends can provide designated drivers as well as people who you are secure splitting the bill with. A lot of people who go to the clubs with friends will take turns buying rounds. This will ensure you’ll get to enjoy a drink without having to open a tab or spend more than you should. You want to make sure the people around you are going to be as generous as you though, so scale out a great group and stick with them.

4. Stick to Budget
Before you decide to go clubbing you should work out your finances and set a budget for the night out. This might sound a whole lot easier than it actually is though. Instead of wasting time planning and then going back on your budgeting you should only carry around cash with you. This will help you spend only what you allowed so you won’t wake up in the morning with a hangover and the realization that you burned through some of your savings. Although you might think it is easy to say no to swiping your credit or debit card it might be more temptation than you can deal with after you’ve been drinking. If you’re worried about an emergency then choose a club close to home, keep a safety number on hand, or give a little extra cash to a trusted friend in case you need to take a taxi home. With your plastic cards safe you may even find you save a little of the cash you left the house with.

5. Avoid Cocktails
One of the fastest ways to loose money in the clubs is to order cocktails. These drinks are pretty pricy no matter where you go should avoiding them altogether might be the best possible option. The worst thing you can do in a club is order one of these pricy drinks and have the bartender keep them coming. If you have to order a fancy cocktail then stick to one. Make sure the bartender doesn’t set up a tab for you, so that after you finish your drink you won’t be tempted to order more cocktails. If you want to continue drinking after the first drink then opt for a cheaper beer until the night is over. Of course, it might be your best bet to drink the cheaper beer anyway, or you could avoid drinking altogether. If you’re craving a cocktail though try to find a place that has a cheap deal on them. Many themed clubs will even have a special drink that sells for cheap during happy hour.

6. Slow it Down
When it comes to spending money at the club nothing can get you in more trouble than trying to keep up with those around you. If you choose to drink alcohol while partying then you might want to drink your beverage a lot slower. This will allow you to keep a drink for longer so you won’t feel the need to go back for a refill as often. If you’re buying rounds with friends then slowing down your drinking can ensure everyone won’t have to buy a full round more than once. This can be a big money saver if you have a lot of people in your group or if the drinks aren’t priced well. Not everyone drinks while clubbing, but this doesn’t mean you’re going to be financially okay if you drink a lot. Try to designate times to rehydrate, but don’t keep buying soda or water because those around you are drinking. One or two bottles of water throughout the night should keep your hydrated enough to have some fun without ruining your budget.

7. Be a Regular
People who tend to club a lot might be a bit more privy to some good old fashioned discounts. If you’re checking out club after club you might want to settle down at a place you like and become a regular. This will open up a lot of options for you and your friends that you might not get if you hop from club to club. When you spend time at a club you’ll start to get know the staff which could lead you to an entirely different experience at the club. Making friends with the club owner, or staff that run the admissions are could help you get a discount on prices or occasionally free entrance to the club. You may find that spending time talking with the bartenders, giving good tips and brightening their work experience could also help you get discounted drinks so your clubbing experience can be more worthwhile

8. Clothes
Everyone loves a new outfit when they go out to celebrate, but after some time this could be pretty pricy. Instead of going out and buying something new every time you plan on clubbing you might want to consider amping up some of your older clothes in order to make something new and exiting for your night out. You should also go through your closet to see if there is actually anything you might have overlooked in the back of your wardrobe. A lot of the time we tend to push things to back and forget we even have them. Of course, if nothing you actually own is working for you then you might want to get together with your other clubbing friends. If you know people around the same size as you you can host a clothes trading party before you go out clubbing. This will give you a new look for absolutely nothing.

9. Pre-Club Party
If party of the clubbing experience for you is having a few drinks then you might want to consider having a pre-club party before you go out. Invite over everyone you plan on hitting the clubs with so everyone can enjoy a few low cost cocktails before you go out. This will help everyone refrain from spending a lot of money on drinks they don’t need. Having a pre-club party will also help set the mood for the night as everyone will leave your place feeling joyous, which could help ease the pain of the long wait in line. The pre-club party might also serve as one of the best places to get dressed to go out as you’ll have plenty of fashion advance. It will also help get everyone in the same place, so the designated driver doesn’t have to drive around town to pick everyone up.

10. Eat Light
One of the easiest tips to keep you happy and financially well off throughout the night is to eat light before going out. You don’t want a heavy meal on your stomach or else you may end up feeling sick as you dance around. This could lead you to go home early which means not getting the most out of admission price and the possibility of paying a taxi because your designated drive needs to stay with the other party members. Eating light will also help you achieve a buzz faster so you won’t have to keep buying drink after drink to get the desired effect.

Clubbing can be incredibly fun if you learn out to keep the spending under control. With these tips you should have a lot more fun without having to lose your savings in the process. So, find some time for you by dancing with friends, meeting new people and forgetting about the work week until Monday.

On an average day most people venture out of their beds and partake in a cup of coffee before they take on the challenges of each day. Not too long ago the K-Cup trend entered the lives of many frequent coffee drinkers. This trend allows coffee loves to make an entirely fresh cup of coffee that taste as fresh as a cup bought from a cafe. The only draw back is the K-Cups tend to raise the price of our daily cup of coffee and can leave buyers feeling remorseful for the amount of money they lose each day. There are many alternative ways to make your K-Cup habit worthwhile though. With a few simple cut backs and a little extra shopping you won’t have to give up your convenient fresh cup of coffee each morning.

1. Use a Filter
After shopping for expensive K-Cups you might be delighted to know there is actually a filter for the single serve coffee machines. You can typically pick these filters up at department stores or online without having to spend more than $20 on the amazing filter. These filters don’t offer you the same convenience of the K-Cups because you will have to clean them out after each use. Of course, cleaning them doesn’t take a lot of effort and can always be put to the side if you’re running later for work. The beauty of the single serve filter is it doesn’t limit you to the brands that the K-Cups do. In fact, you can take coffee bought anywhere to make the perfect brew each morning. The filters are also great for households that like different roasts, as everyone can brew their own bag of coffee if need be.

2. Generic Cups
Originally, the magic of the K-Cup was given to only a few big brand companies, which made purchasing them a lot more expensive. However, recently the intellectual property of the K-Cup expired which has allowed a number of different companies to get in on the single serve brewing technology. This has brought around a lot of generic companies that sell their coffee for a whole lot less than the big name brands. With generics on the market you should be able to spend quite a bit less on the same quality of goods. In fact, if you check out the lower aisles of the coffee section in your chosen grocery store you may find that each of the generic brands can price their cups at $1 or $2 less than the more popular brands. With these savings you should be able to keep your love for coffee satisfied without worrying about the price weighing down your budget.

3. Reuse
If you don’t always make the biggest cup of coffee possible then you might want to consider reusing your k-cup. Generally these pods are designed for a one time use, but you should be able to get a great taste out of two of three brews on the same cup. This is especially true if you enjoy drinking the darker roasts that tend to be a bit more bitter than medium or breakfast blends. One way to make the brewing easier is for two people in the same household to use the cup together. This will allow the freshness of the cup to stay intact while giving both parties a great tasting cup of coffee. Of course, if you’re the only one in the house that enjoys a specific blend then you might want to wrap the cup up in tin foil and save it for the next day. You should always remember to shake the cup up between each use though as it will help the brewer get more flavor out of the cup.

4. Buy Bulk
Let’s face it, some people just need a little more caffeine to get through the day. If this is the case, or even if it isn’t, you might want to consider buying your coffee in bulk. There’s a lot of stores online dedicated to helping you get more out of your coffee purchase. Many online coffee stores specialize in K-Cups and have a selection you would have never thought possible. Bulk buying your coffee pods will help you get a lot more coffee for the money, which is never a bad thing. Of course, if you don’t like shopping online then you might want to look around for coffee distributors locally. Sometimes you might be able to get factory prices on bulk buys. You may also want to check out your local bulk buy department store to see the deals they have on coffee. Usually these stores don’t have as wide of a selection as an online store would, but if you enjoy the basic brands you should be able to get some amazing bulk deals.

5. Off-Brand Machines
Keurig was certainly the big name that started the K-Cup trend, but these machines can really be pricy for the budgeting coffee lover. Luckily, there has been a huge expansion in the single serve brewing industry. This expansion allowed a lot of different companies to make their very only brewing systems. Now, when you shop around for a coffee maker you should be able to find one that fits your individual needs. In fact, there are some systems that won’t cost you more than $15 which is a great way to start off your single serve brewing habit. Make sure you shop around before making a commitment to one brand though, as you might be able to find a generic version for a lot less than you’d expect. You should make sure to shop local stores like Big Lots to see if you can find anything at a low price before you settle on one of the pricier models. If your cheaper model doesn’t meet with your criteria then upgrade until you find just what you need out of a brewer.

6. Use Filtered Water
One common problem with single serve brewing machines is they are often clogged up by calcium and other impurities. This can really render your machine useless if you can’t find a way to keep it clean. There is one very simply way to avoid the problem altogether though. If you use filtered water in your water canister then the machine will work more efficiently for a lot longer. Most tap water has a large collection of impurities in it that largely depend on your area. These impurities don’t always flow through the machine easily and can make it harder for your machine to dispense water. Not to mention, you might not want to have all these impurities working in your own body. So, instead of filling up the water from the tap try filling it up with your favored water filtering device. This will ensure you won’t be shopping for a new machine any time soon and will give you tastier coffee.

7. Shop Online
When it comes to becoming a coffee guru you may want to start looking for a preferred shop online. Sure, this take a bit of the magic out of coffee shopping, but when you’re buying K-Cups you can’t exactly smell the roast anyway. Try researching some reliable online stores or ask your friends if they shop anywhere online. You may be surprised as to how many amazing finds you’ll come across while shopping. Online stores have the ability to offer you a wide variety of roasts while keeping the price tag smaller than your retail store would. Of course, you’ll have to consider shipping into the price, but a lot of the stores will offer a flat fee so you can order as much as you want. You should always be able to locate coupons for inline stores and you may even find a deal that will help you get free shipping. The best thing is you’ll never be disappointed that your favorite roast isn’t in stock.

8. Alternative Beverages
One of the best ways to get more out of your K-Cup experience is to look at alternative beverages too. Your single serve brewing machine might take quite a bit longer to pay for itself if you’re only have a cup of coffee a day. These machines can be used for anything from tea, hot cocoa or even an iced latte. If you’re a big fan of tea throughout the day then you can easily brew a fresh cup whenever you’re thirsty. Simply add a tea bag into the filter and you’ll be ready for one of the best brewed cups you’ve had in awhile. You can even brew into ice for a cold beverage on a summer’s day. Instead of waiting for your water to heat up for hot cocoa, you can have the kids warming up with a sweet treat in only seconds. You can even make your coffee creative by creating cappuccinos, lattes or espressos. So, don’t let the brewing system limit you when it comes to your drinking experience. You should be able to enjoy an assortment of products if you keep an open mind.

9. Buy a Thermos
One wait to cut down your coffee bill substantially is to buy a thermos. This simple trip will allow you to take your favorite brewed cup off coffee with you on the go. Sure, its nice to wake up to a fresh cup of coffee, but a lot of people crave a little extra caffeine throughout the day. If you feel like a nap at work then you may be more apt to seek out a cafe in order to ease your body’s want for some caffeine. With your thermos you’ll always have a hot cup of coffee at hand so you can step away from the temptation that cafe’s create. A good thermos should keep your brewed cup hot for hours and with the fresh taste of your K-Cup system you won’t need to go out and spend a small fortune on another cup. Most systems even have a special feature that will allow you to brew straight into your thermos so you won’t have to worry about making a special cup in the morning.

10. Coupons
When it comes to saving big K-Cups offer a lot of help to consumers in the form of coupons. You can look in just about any local ad and find a coupon for one bran of K-Cups or another. There are also plenty of online sites that help cut the cost of these expensive coffee pods. One easier way to save is to look in the K-Cup box you already own. Many of the boxes come with printed out coupons inside the box that will encourage you to purchase the same type of coffee. Each time you go out to replenish your coffee supply you should have a coupon with you. This can cut down on quite a bit of the expense without forcing you to feel guilty about buying pods. You may even be able to find coupons in the store itself, as these delicious pods are such a hot item on the market right now.

Everyone loves a tasty cup of coffee to help make the day seem brighter. With these K-Cup tips you should be able to get that fresh brew every time you crave a cup of coffee. Now, you can forget the buyers remorse and rejoice in the convenience and taste that your single serve brewing system provides you. You may even be a bit more likely to share you delicious coffee pods with guests, but no promises!

Our teeth are one of the most important aspects of our health. They not only boost self esteem, allowing you to take on daily challenges, but they help avoid a wide selection of health problems. Carrying for your teeth can be simple, but a lot of the time it can cost a whole lot of money. If you spend a lot of time at the dentist you may want to know a few tricks that can help you avoid some of those unsightly cost that lead you feeling remorseful after every visit. Instead of getting the full work up there’s a few ways to skip out on a lot of the costs without putting your teeth in jeopardy. These tips will not only make your visit to the dentist a lot more friendly on your budget, but won’t leave you with that lingering feeling of doom that so many get.

1. Skip X-Rays
Usually when you go to the dentist for your 6 month check-up you’re usually asked to take a few X-Rays for the dentist. These can run you quite a bit of money and are usually one of the most expensive aspects of your visit. The one thing most dentist won’t tell you is you don’t have to get the x-rays taken every single time that you visit. In fact, the FDA recently ran an investigation about the amount these x-rays are taken. This investigation ruled that a set of healthy adult teeth only need to be X-rayed every 2 to 3 years. This means you can go a total of five to six visits without having this uncomfortable and pricey procedure done. Of course, if you do have problems with your teeth you may have to have a few extra x-rays taken, but if you manage your teeth well you’ll be in good shape financially.

2. Dental Schools
If you’re on a very tight budget when your check up rolls around then you may want to opt out of your regular appointment and go to a dental school instead. Most dental schools offer an incredibly low price for work, so you may actually end up spending nothing on your check up. These dental schools will complete just about any procedure you need to be completed though, which can really work to save you a lot of money. Although you will still end up paying for most services everything is only priced at a fraction of what it would be at a regular dentist office. Make sure to call ahead to ensure you get an appointment and to ensure that the school will take your insurance. A lot of these schools will even offer you a payment plan, so make sure you work with the financial office as much as possible.

3. Keep a Routine
One of the easiest and most inexpensive ways to stop dental problems is to keep a routine. Every visit you have with the dentist will help you build up the best routine to maintain your teeth properly. Usually, the typical routine involves brushing at least twice a day as well as using a mouth rinse and flossing. Of course, if you have dental problems you may need to do a bit more to keep your teeth healthier. If you’re having trouble maintaining a routine then write down everything you need to do on a checklist in the bathroom. You should also always remember to never brush your teeth within an hour of eating as it could weaken enamel and make your teeth susceptible to problems. If you need to cleanse the mouth between meals try chewing gum as it will help remove food particles and keep the breath fresh. However, you should avoid sugary gums as much as possible. The more you keep your routine then less likely you’ll end up getting cavities or developing major dental problems that will have you going back to the dentist for expensive dental work.

4. Eat Healthy
The way you eat can really change the health of your teeth. In fact, eating certain foods can actually clean the teeth and ensure the entire mouth is a healthier system. There have been many studies that show test subjects that didn’t brush their teeth but lived on a steady diet of specific raw fruits and vegetables had less cavities than the test subjects that brushed frequently. Most hard fruits and vegetables are particularly good for the teeth, but you should specifically eat lots of carrots, apples and celery to help you maintain the healthy teeth you love to show off. With the healthier foods your body will naturally keep a healthier vibe that will make you feel better all around.

5. Home Remedy
Although it is a bit uncommon now, many people take to home remedies when they’re facing a budget crisis. There are many ways to help keep your teeth in good working order when you’re in a bind. Baking soda is one of the top ways to keep your teeth clean when you’re out of toothpaste. Simply add a little water on top some baking soda until you have a paste like mixture. This can be applied directly to the teeth with a toothbrush and will clean as well as a lot of the name brands today to. It has also been known to keep your teeth a little whiter than the average toothpaste. Of course, if you’re not into the taste of baking soda, there’s actually a whole lot of recipes online you can try. Choose one that consists of ingredients you already have and you’ll be set for a cheap way to clean the teeth. If you’re having tooth pains and can’t get to a dentist right away then you may want to raid the spice rack and chew on a clove. This will numb the area so you can withstand the pain until it goes away or can be addressed by a dentist.

6. Teeth Whitening
One of the most expensive procedures many people have done at the dentist office is teeth whitening. This cosmetic procedure can make you feel good about yourself, but is terribly expensive if you’re on a tight budget. There’s a lot of different whitening strips you can get at the store, but these can even run you too much money if you’re not careful. Instead of paying a fortune for whitening, you could always try inexpensive procedures at home. One common way to get the same effect is to add some lemon juice to baking soda. This will whitening the teeth while also getting them incredibly clean. Sometimes, the foods that you eat can actually produce a naturally whitening procedure. Strawberries are one of the more delicious ways to use food to get your teeth a healthy white. Some people will often use hydrogen peroxide as a mouth wash to help get rid of stains. This can be dangerous if you don’t use a low dose, so you should look for anything 5% or under when shopping. If you’re worried you could even mix the product with a little water to help get the desired effect without the bad taste.

7. Braces
Some parents go into an anxiety state when the dentist first mutters the word braces. This period of your child’s life won’t just be painful for them, but can leave you in a bad financial place. Braces can cost you thousands of dollars which makes keeping your budget in order frightening. One of the first steps you should take when you first find out about the braces is to negotiate with the insurance company as much as possible. This will probably lead to a lot of frustration and time spend on your behalf, but the more the insurance company pays the less you will have to. A lot of dentist and orthodontist will help work out a payment plan with you for whatever insurance won’t cover. Don’t be afraid to ask for lower payments as it is important to keep your budget balanced. Of course, if you do need extra help with the expenditure then you might want to look up a program to help you. One popular program is called Smiles Change Lives, but there are lots that might be able to help fund your child’s dental expenditure.

8. Cash Discount
Let’s face it, no one actually likes to play with cash anymore. Most people find it a lot easier to deal with credit or debit cards. This isn’t always a good thing for the people you give money to, as they often have to pay a fee for every card payment made to them. Before you go to the dentist you might ask the receptionist if they offer a cash discount. Many locations will as it helps them avoid many unsightly costs, so they can afford to drop the price of many procedures for those who don’t cost them extra money. You might also ask if they offer a discount for those who pay upfront, as many customers often ask to be billed for the procedure they just underwent. This gives the dentist the money straight away, which might make them more apt to help you out.

9. Coupons
When it comes to dental hygiene products, coupons can take you pretty far. There’s usually coupons for these items everywhere you look, so you won’t have to spend a whole lot of time looking for something that can help you save money. Many people often find that they can even get some of the items for free if they use the correct coupons, which is great for households that use more than one bathroom for dental care. Of course, coupons aren’t just useful when it comes to the basic things like toothpaste and floss. You can also find many coupons for your dentist, so don’t be shy about using them. You might have to go to see a new dentist in order to redeem one of the coupons, but it will be worth it for the money you’ll save. You may even find an even greater dentist than the one you had before.

10. Insurance
Although it might not seem like you’re saving money each month for your dental insurance, it will certainly feel great to have it when something comes up. For instance, if a child chips a tooth or you notice an unusual pain that needs to be take care of right away, then you’ll be happy to have a little extra coverage. A lot of the time insurance won’t pay for the full amount of the service, but the price break will certainly help you save when it comes to those large procedures. You should always make sure to shop around before you choose a dental plan though. There are so many available, but it is important to find one that fits your family’s needs as well as your budgeting information. When it comes to the dental plan even co-pay options can really leave you less burdened than paying the full amount of a procedure, so make sure you’re covered before something goes wrong.

Teeth are an important part of life, so make sure you take care of them while you still have them. There’s lot of ways you can keep them healthy without feeling forced to spend a fortune on the dental hygeine products or on procedures at the dental office. These tips should help you find a happy balance with your health and budget so you don’t have to stress over making payments on your dental care.

Valentine’s Day is a great way to slow things down and show a partner just how much they are loved. Although there’s a lot of great ways to provide a happy Valentine’s Day for your better half, a lot of organizations may push you to spend more money thank you should. Between the chocolates, flowers and jewelry, there almost seems no ending to the amount of money you could lose over this short lived holiday. There are ways that you can be a romantic without spending a fortune though. Now, instead of spending time worrying about how you’re going to pay back the newest addition to the house’s diamond collection, you can actually sit back and enjoy the time you have with the one you love. It might even rekindle some old feelings that inspire you to treat everyday as if it were Valentine’s Day.

1. Eat at Home
Snagging a reservation at a nice restaurant can be one of the most stressful things on Valentine’s day, especially if you’re a procrastinator. Instead of trying to get into a highly expensive restaurant for the occasion you may want to consider staying at home with your date. Try to find out your sweetheart’s favorite dish, if you don’t already know, and buy the ingredients to make it yourself. If you’re not big on cooking then set up a simple picnic style dinner with lots of fruits and other easy to eat foods. Then add some nice mood music from your favorite internet radio or playlist and a few flowers that you picked yourself. Your date won’t just feel flattered that you went the extra mile to ensure they had a great day, but you’ll save a whole lot lot of money on that reservation that just caused you stressed anyway.

2. Forget Online Shopping
Online shopping can be an amazing thing for any holiday but Valentine’s Day. Instead of scouring the internet for the perfect gift you should probably just look around your neighborhood for a gift. Usually grocery stores or department stores are the best place to buy flowers for your date. As long as they are refrigerated you know you’ll get a fresh bouquet without the price tag. Generally buying flowers online requires a huge shipping cost and the flowers alone are boosted in price. Chocolates are another thing you may want to find locally. Ordering chocolate online can be touch and go because the treats tend to melt if not properly shipped. You don’t want to spend a fortune on something you could easily get at home and then have it arrive to you spoiled when no hope of getting a return product before the big day. It is easier just to go to the department store or specialty shop to find the product you need, plus there’s no shipping fee. It may also be a bad idea to buy jewelry online as it tends to be more expensive and it would be terrible to have an item go missing in the mail system, which would leave you empty handed for the big day.

3. Be Spontaneous
Instead of shelling out cash on a planned event you should try to be a bit more spontaneous. Take your date on a walk and let everything fall into to place from there. A lot of the time life tends to get in the way so any chance of being spontaneous is a bit impossible. Loosen things up with your date and you’ll be able to have a great time no matter what happens. You may be able to find some pretty incredible carnivals or other Valentine’s Day events that you didn’t even know where happening. Of course, you might also just find the time to get to know one another better or catch up on life and other things going on personally that might get swept under the rug on an everyday basis. No matter what you choose to you may find the spontaneity is a great way to have fun with your date and may even help you spend next to nothing on your excursion.

4. Make a card
Let’s face it, buying that perfect Hallmark moment card is pretty pricey now. There’s a lot of bells and whistles to choose from and it can really take some time to choose the perfect one for your Valentine. Instead of browsing in the stores for your perfect card you might want to get a little creative and make your own. It doesn’t matter what you make your card out of as your significant other with love the extra effort you put into the card. There’s a whole lot of cheap supplies you can choose from when so don’t feel confined creatively when it comes to your card. You can even look online for a few ideas to help you on your creative path. The best thing is you won’t have to spend a fortune on it and it can include a more personal message like a poem or special drawing for your Valentine.

5. Turn Off Phone
It might not sound like a whole lot, but simply turning off your phone during the holiday can really make your date feel special. Our phones pose as a constant distraction for us. Between friends, family and work calling and other social media sites and games, there’s very little time that we actually communicate with the person we love the most. So, instead of going all out financially you may want to spend some time with your partner without the buzzing of the phone. This will allow you to actually talk with one another without feeling like there is something else you need to be doing. Without the phone on you may also feel a lot more relaxed so you can communicate better and show your date the affection you often forget to show during the rest of the year. You may even take up the activity when Valentine’s Day is over.

6. Shop Sales
When it comes to Valentine’s Day there tends to be a lot of sales that you should never pass up. Jewelry is one of the most popular gifts during this time of the year, which means jewelry stores are going to work hard to get your business. Make sure you check out all of the sales before you decide on what you want to purchase. A lot of jewelry stores will even allow you to create a payment plan that will ensure you get the jewelry you want in time for the big day. Typically there is also a lot of sales on popular brands of candy that have a Valentine’s Day flare. These candies make a great gift and are perfect for children’s Valentine’s Day parties at school. If you’re looking to buy flowers you may want to wait until the day of as stores want to get rid of the bulk stock they received specifically for the holiday. Of course, if you don’t want to celebrate the holiday on the actual day you can always get clearanced Valentine’s Day items the day after which will save you even more.

7. Discount Giftcards
If you don’t want to avoid that pricey dinner in a chic restaurant then you might want to consider a discounted giftcard. This is one of the most popular ways to enjoy a night out without paying the huge price. There’s a lot of websites online that will help you purchase a giftcard for less than you’d expect. One way to do this is to buy a used giftcard. These cards are sold to a website and checked to ensure they have an appropriate amount of money on them. They are then sold to you at a price lesser than the value of the price on the card. You can also go to your favorite bulk store to find a set of giftcards that equal out to less than you’d pay. These bundles are a great way to really splurge without pushing your budget too far.

8. Flowers
When it comes to buying flowers there’s a few tricks that won’t just help you save money, but will also help you get the most out of your money. Flowers are delicate and the earlier you buy them the worse they’re going to look by the time they actually meet the eyes of your Valentine. Try to buy flowers on the actual holiday, rather than pushing your luck with trying to preserve them for the day. You should skip out on deliveries if you can. Instead surprise your Valentine with the flowers on the way home from work or when you pick your date up for whatever events you have planned. Buying flowers from your local neighborhood is always a must, but try to avoid street vendors at all cost because the price will really set you back. You should also never buy flowers unless they come from a refrigerated area because this will help them last so much longer. You should also ask your merchant if the flowers come with plant food, as this is the best way to keep the flowers looking great days to weeks after the holiday.

9. Skip the Chocolates
For some reason heart shaped boxes of chocolate seem to be one of the top gifts for the holiday. Unfortunately, these boxes tend to be filled with candies that do nothing more than disappoint in most cases. Usually, people tend to not want everything that’s in the box which sort of renders the gift a bit of a waste of money. Instead of opting for the classic gift you should try to make your own chocolaty treat. Chocolate covered strawberries or a fondue pot of chocolate is usually a nice treat. You could also make a rich cake that will satisfy the urge for chocolate at a much lower price. The options are endless when it comes to gifting chocolate so you might even feel the need to get creative. If you feel like the package isn’t creative enough then go to the store and pick out a special bag to present your candy to your date. You might even find that custom candy pieces aren’t as expensive as you think which works great for surprise proposals.

10. Make Coupons
If you’re facing budgeting problems this Valentine’s Day don’t feel discouraged. One easy and inexpensive way to make the perfect gift is to fill out a coupon book. There’s a lot of different designs you can print out in order to make your coupon book look great, but you can also hand make it for an even more personal touch. Inside the coupon book you can list anything you think your significant other would like. Usually house chores or date nights are a great option as they will make life a whole lot easier and possibly more fun. Make sure you are able to fulfill everyone in the coupon book though, so that the gift means even more. If you are having trouble figuring out ideas for your coupon book then you may want to browse online to see what others have used. Of course, there are also pre-made books that can make your coupon book work to meet your scheduling needs as well as your budget.

Don’t let Valentine’s Day become one more reason to stress out over money. With these tips you should be able to find a way to please your day while still keeping your budget in tact. This holiday should never have to be about how much you spend or what other commercial lengths you follow in order to keep the general tradition. Instead, you should make it about you and your Valentine, so that the love you share can be appreciated without a dollar value.

With technology taking up more of our kids’ time it is important that we urge them to spend some time outdoors. Obesity is becoming a huge epidemic in the nation and the lack of exercise caused by technology addiction is one of the main health problems for children. With the Spring months swiftly coming in it might be time to work out a small backyard playground for your children. This can be an expensive task, but there’s a few ways to work around the total price to help your kids have some fun outside. You may even notice they might actually want to go outside without your constant pleading or bargaining. Before you know it your kids will actually prefer spending time outside opposed to sitting in front of a glowing screen, which will make them a lot healthier and happier.

1. Shop Metallic
One key factor to keep in mind while you’re shopping is to look for metallic designs. There are plenty of amazing wooden and plastic designs on the market, but if you’re looking to get a good value for the money metal is the way to go. Wooden designs tend to rot over time which can make them dangerous for children, especially if you live in a moist area. Plastic also begins to age poorly and becomes brittle which can lead to you replacing the equipment sooner or an injury. Metallic equipment can last for decades if you upkeep it. The building material tends to withstand the elements and will ensure your kids get plenty of play on the equipment. In fact, they may even outgrow the equipment before you ever have to replace anything. The best thing about metal equipment is the weight limit is extremely high so even parents can play with younger children who are just learning to work with the new toy.

2. Some Assembly Required
When it comes to shopping for playground equipment you may want to skip out on the assembly cost. A lot of the time when you purchase pre-assembled equipment it requires the company to deliver and set up the playground for you. The fee is also usually included in the price of the equipment without your knowledge. Of course, most stores will also waive this fee if you ask, so make sure you find out how much it cost for delivery and assembly before you finalize the sale. Usually playgrounds are pretty simple to put together and require basic tools that tend to be found in just about any household. You may even make putting together the playground a family affair as you ask the children to take on small and safe tasks like handing you tools or screws. Every new set of equipment should also come with easy to follow instructions which makes it more convenient to do it yourself. However, if you’re still having trouble getting it all together you can easily look online for a video tutorial that will have you on the right track to getting the job done.

3. Avoid Toddler Sets
A lot of parents tend to fall into the toddler equipment gap when they’re planning out a playground. These toddler sets tend to be made of plastic and are only good for a year or two, as children outgrow them remarkably fast. Despite the small amount of use you’ll get out of these sets you will stay have to pay quite a bit to set one up in your yard. Toddler sets tend to be great for anyone that constantly has small children in the home. So, if you’re running a home daycare it might be a safe investment for you. However, if you’re trying to make a play area for your own children it is always best to buy a traditional sized play set. When your kids are too small to enjoy all of the properties of the playset then you can add simple modifications. For instance, a lot of play sets will have special toddler seats that will allow your toddler to use the swing set portion of the play set. You can also work to apply special railing that makes it easier for very young children to slowly climb up stairs or use the traditional sized slide. With a few simple and inexpensive modifications you’ll wonder why you ever considered the small plastic toddler sets in the first place.

4. Know Your Yard
One crucial thing to consider when you’re shopping for a playground set is the yard. A lot of people go into the store looking for items they believe will please the children, but forget to consider the state of their yard. You should always measure the yard several times before you even begin to think about getting a playset. The size of your yard will allow you to decide on what pieces are crucial for your yard. Sometimes people tend to think their yard is a bit bigger than actually is which leads to a crowded play area. You want your children to still be able to move around freely in the yard so make sure you have several feet from the play area and any barriers that might get in a child’s way. Another thing to consider is the terrain in your yard. If you tend to have a yard that has a lot of bumps, or perhaps is one big hill then this might limit your choices quite a bit. You may even have to do a little renovation to the yard before you can move in a playground equipment. So, instead of going out and spending the money right away, make sure your ready to work around potential problems first.

5. Buy Used
When it comes to shopping around for playground equipment you may find that the cheapest place to buy some amazing pieces for the yard is thrift stores or used sporting good stores. A lot of the time it may take quite a bit of looking on your part, but you will save a great deal of money if you can find equipment used. It might also mean you’ll have to piece together several different playground additions, but your kids will certainly enjoy the unique play equipment have. One important factor to consider when buying used is the shape of the parts. If something looks like it might break then don’t use it. You should also evaluate the screws that come with the set as they may be stripped out. This is a simple fix that won’t cost you a lot of money to fix.

6. Ask Around
It doesn’t matter if you’re living in a small or large community because chances are someone is upgrading their playground equipment. Maybe it be a public park or a local daycare facility, you might be surprised as to how willing many people are to give away old equipment so they don’t have to pay to get it hauled away. So, if you’re not in a hurry to get a playground set you might want to call around to see if anyone is upgrading their playground and looking to get rid of old equipment. You may have to put yourself on a waiting list, but it could be well worth the wait when you realize how much money you’re saving by being patient. Some places may require to you to pay a small fee for the item, especially if it is from a public domain area, so you might want to start with asking small businesses first. With a little investigative work your kids could have an awesome playground set by the time summer rolls around.

7. Go Clearance
Whether you enjoy shopping locally or love to hit online stores, the clearance bin can be one of the most convenient places to find your dream playground set. If you plan on shopping locally you should always ask the store to point you in the direction of the clearance section before you consider looking at the full priced items. This will allow you to see if there is actually anything that your children might enjoy at a discount. A lot of major stores, like Wal Mart and Home Depot, might only have their clearanced playground equipment online so make sure to check out your favorite places to shop first. Stores like these will often ship the item to your local store for free so you don’t have to worry about the huge shipping cost when it comes to checking out. There are also a lot of stores online that offer free shipping when you spend so much money, so make sure you play it smart when you’re browsing the clearance section.

8. Play with the Kids
It might not sound like playing with your kids could save you money, but you’d actually be surprised as to how much it actually can. When you hang out with your kids on the playground equpiment you’re not just getting some quality time with the kids, but you’re also teaching them how great it is to be outdoors getting some exercise. The more you take the kids out to get on the playground equipment the more they’ll actually use it, which will mean you’ll get a lot more use out of it for your money. Even when you don’t spend time with the kids outdoors they will still follow your example and enjoy being out a lot more. Playing with the kids also helps you keep an eye on the playground equipment. When you’re running around with the kids you’ll be more apt to notice any rusting, rotting or loose screws. This will you know what needs some maintenance work so the equipment will stay safe and fun for the kids longer.

9. Customize It
When you’re buying playground equipment don’t feel bad about wanting to customize it. A lot of kids have different interest on the playground, so if you buy one of the pre-made sets you might find that part of the set gets little to no use. This can be a huge waste of money as the piece could have been left out of the final bill or replaced with something the kids actually would use. The best thing you do before shopping is to talk to the kids before you buy anything. Find out what they actually like to play on the playground so you work around their interests to build the perfect playground. Of course, you might also want to consider monitoring their activities at a school or public park. This will also give you an idea as to how the kids actually play which will help you find a more cost effective way to meet their needs.

10. Build It
There’s a whole lot of playground gear that can be built with simple things online. For instance, a tire swing is a pretty iconic child’s toy that merely needs an old tire, some rope and a sturdy tree to hand it from. You can also work on smaller projects like a homemade sandbox. This only requires a simple wooden frame and some sand which can easily be purchased in bulk at a home improvement store. If you’re really feeling ambitious then it might be fun to build your own tree house or a smaller fort using scrap wood that is still in good shape. You will be surprised as to how many amazing playground toys you can make for the kids that will match your budget perfectly, so don’t be afraid to get out there and build.

Creating a playground oasis for kids should be a fun project for the entire family. These tips should help you step away from the price bracket and find a happy medium that will get your kids outside and exercising. You may even find that outside time becomes a favored pass time for the entire family that doesn’t cost you any extra.

Smart phones tend to be a huge part of our day. They do all of our scheduling, helps us find answers in a seconds and keep us in touch with those we love. They can also be one of the priciest devices we carry around with us all day everyday. Although there might not be too many ways to avoid the high prices of buying a smart phone there are certain brands that can help cut down on the major costs. Android and iPhone tend to be the two brands that are constantly going to head to head to earn customer allegiance. Although iPhone has a lot to offer and tends to be one of the more popular choices, you may find that Android offers you what you need to make your smart phone use cost effective and up to your high technological standards.

1. Replacements
If you tend to notice your battery holding a charge less and less then you may want to look into a replacement. Of course, if you are the proud owner of an iPhone you may find that buying a new battery or upgrading your battery might cost you a small fortune. Android is pretty good about offering a wide selection of replacement batteries, so you can keep your phone for longer without feeling frustrated with its lack of charge. The same can be said when you’re looking to upgrade your phone. Generally, iPhones come with a standard amount of storage that you choose when you purchase you the phone. This is all fine except you might eventually want to save up to give yourself an upgrade. You may learn that with the iPhone you might as well save up to buy a new phone with more memory as getting work done on your phone is too expensive to make it worthwhile. Android, on the other hand, gives you the option to swap out memory, screens and whatever else you need without having to send it in to an overpriced specialist.

2. Variety
Many people look for a unique way to express themselves through their phones. With iPhone you tend to get the choice of one phone which upgrades with new feature every year or two. So, essentially, you most likely have the same phone as many other iPhone users. With Android you have a wide variety of phones to choose that will suit your own personal style. If you’re looking for the newest technology Android tends to have at least two or three models that will suit your need for fast internet and amazing features. On the other hand, if you’re just getting into smart phones and want to start off smaller there is still plenty to choose from. The best thing about the large variety of phones is they also range in price so you can always choose something great that still fits your budget, rather than finding yourself on a payment plan that doesn’t exactly suit your best interest.

3. More Screen
Apple tends to pride themselves on offering tablets with incredible screens. Unfortunarly, most people don’t want to carry around a tablet all day long. It actually wasn’t until the recent release of the iPhone 5 that they decided to get into the ballgame with the other phones with amazing screens. Screen size has always been a part of Android and they offer a pretty wide selection of good quality phones with screens that will leave you feeling mesmerized. If you’re into playing some of the latest phone games or catching up with your favorite sitcom while commuting then you may want to try out an Android phone for this purpose. This is party due to the selection they have to offer and partly due to the price tag. The iPhone 5 is still extremely inexpensive since it was just released at the end of last year which makes it a poor economical buy for the phone user on a budget. Android, on the hand, has had several phones out with larger screens so you can still buy an older model without sacrificing quality.

4. Apps
Both Android and Apple offer an exciting and competitive market place when it comes to the app store. Apple tends to have a lot of the big name games that get incredible reviews. However, apart from the big ticket items, the free selection of apps in the store tends to be a bit lacking. Android also offers a good selection of some of those home run games, but they also have a larger market for independent designers that offer their games for little to nothing in the store. If you tend to get bored with games fairly easy then you might want to consider the free applications over the higher priced games. Although many of the independent games are still in development you should be able to find something that holds you interest and makes you enjoy your phone as a way to pass time when there’s nothing else to do.

5. Operating System
When it comes to your phones operating system you might be surprised that iPhone does actually keep you up to date a lot more than Android does. However, iPhone updates often tend to leave your searching through your phone to see what isn’t important just so you have the memory to download it. It also may leave you with plenty of bugs for the first few months after your updated. Android is fairly bad about leaving you out of the loop with their operating system. In fact, you may end up waiting for years before that update button finally makes it to your cellphone. You may also have to buy a new phone before you actually get to enjoy the new upgraded system. This could be a good thing though as you end up avoiding some bugs along the long trail of bug inspired updates that could leave your personal data at risk.

6. Phone Plans
Most phone plans charge a little extra when it comes to using a smart phone, but that doesn’t really help you in the battle to save the most on your smart phone experience. A lot of phone plans will, however, offer you a free smart phone when you sign up for a two year contract. This free phone will help keep hundreds in your wallet, which is why is so important to consider this route if you tend to regularly keep your cellphone on. Until recently, iPhone has actually refrained from allowing its phones to be on this plan. It wasn’t until last year that the iPhone 4 made its debut on the free phone with contract list. Android has been a frequent player with the free contract phone policy though, which makes your chance of signing up with an Android even greater than an Apple product. A lot of phone companies tend to stick with phones that easier to sign with, so Android tends to have several new phones available to you whenever you’re ready to sign the dotted line.

7. GPS
GPS is a huge feature for anyone that likes to try out new restaurants or is constantly on the move for work. Android and iPhone both have a great selection of GPS systems that can get you where you need to be. Of course, the newest iPhone offers up Siri which will can do just about anything for you, but will eat up your data if you’re not careful. Android doesn’t have the constant connection to a helper, but it does have many GPS apps to choose from that free to low cost. The important thing to remember when choosing a GPS is how much data it will use while you’re away from the Wi-Fi connection. If you aren’t worried about data then anything will save you money. However, if you have a data plan to maintain you may want to work with whatever program that can offer you the most for less of a connection, which is where Android might save you money. With a larger selection of applications it might be easier to find something that is easy enough to use.

8. Accessing Music
If you love using your phone for music then you may want to consider Android before iPhone. Yes, iPhone has the infamous iTunes already ready to go on your phone and you can download an assortment of other radios. Android, on the other hand, allows you to transform your music around your lifestyle which means you’ll be able to spend less on buying music without sacrificing the amount of tunes you listen to each day. This is because Android allows you to connect your varying music devices so you can create playlist that are ready to be heard in an instant. It also allows you to easily access most players without forcing you to stick with the pricey iTunes, so you can actually have a choice in how you get your music and what form of radio you want to listen to.

9. Transferring Information
One of the best aspects of having a smart phone is the ability to transfer your information with ease. Apple’s iPhone has plenty of ways to share information with others, but does lack a lot of the simplicity that Android now carries. In fact, with a lot of Android phones you can easily send your information to another’s phone without actually have to share one another’s phone numbers. This is perfect for businesses as well as student study groups. Another great new addition to the Android information transfer is the fact that you can now install you credit card information into the phone and pay for products all over your city. This tap and go application will certainly get you more deals than paying for things traditionally and will allow you to walk around without having to carry a collection of cards on your person. With the lack of pen and paper per say involved in Android’s transfers you’ll be able to get speed up your shopping experiences for good.

10. Overall Price
When it comes to purchasing a smart phone overall price has a lot to do with what we choose. So, if you’re not getting your phone through a plan then you might want to consider checking out Androids before you venture into the iPhone section. As stated earlier, there are a whole lot of Android phones on the market, so chances are you’ll find a great match at a price that you can’t so no to. With the iPhone you’re going to be looking at a high price even if you choose not to get the newest model. These phones are in high demand and can maintain the high price for a lot longer than Droids can. You may be able to find a used iPhone for a cheaper price, but chances are you’ll still be playing more than you would for the typical Android phone. Android’s selection may also keep you looking for a lot longer. There’s a lot of different features to choose from so you won’t have to sacrifice as much just to keep your budget happy. This is one of the main reasons Android is such a great competitor with Apple. They offer a fine selection at a convenient price, so it is much harder for phone shoppers to blindly drift in the direction of the iPhone.

Shopping for the right smart phone is a real challenge. There’s so many amazing features available that it may take some time to understand what is going to be right for you. If you’re looking to cut down on your spending the Android might be the way to go though. In most categories this brand of phone keeps your spending down and your satisfaction up.

Children love parties and there’s nothing more amusing than a tea party to help urge their to need to entertain peers. Tea parties can be a great way to get adults and children together for some fun while helping improve your relationship with your children’s friend’s parents. Tea parties can be a huge burden on your budget with all of the planning and major purchases needed to successfully host a party. There are many ways around the prices though. If you’re looking to give your child the tea party that will have their peers begging you to host another party soon. So, enjoy your children while they’re young and have some fun with your party. These financial tips will help you find ease with your party while enticing you to enjoy the fun being had around you.

1. Home Made Snacks
There are a wide selection of snacks that can be purchased at the store that are perfect for a tea party. However, purchasing snacks can really cut down on your budget especially if you’re providing for a larger guests list. There are numerous snacks you can make at home that are incredibly inexpensive and will delight even the pickiest of eaters. One great snack for your party is simple veggie sticks and a dip. You can easily buy a stock of celery and bag of baby carrots to make the vegetable incredibly inexpensive. Dips can be as easy as peanut butter that you already have in the cabinet or a homemade ranch dip. Of course, if you want to take things on a sweeter level you can easily make mini scones or cookies from ingredients that you already have at home. If you want to add a special touch to the treats then try to keep extra purchases to a minimum.

2. Tea Set
Serving up tea is one of the most important aspects of the tea party, so make sure you have something great to serve it in. The best way to save money on your party is to use a tea set your already own, but if you’re currently without a tea set the you’ll need to find one. There are a lot of places that will sell you gorgeous tea sets, but finding one at the right price might be tough. One place to start is a thrift store. Typically you can find various different tea sets, althoug many might not be complete sets. This is usually fine when you’re serving to children as most tend to want their own unique cups. If you don’t have any luck at a thrift store then you may want to check at your favorite stores clearance section. Shopping online clearance might also a great way to find a tea set that you’ll especially love. If you’re still having trouble finding something great then you may want to head to the toy section. There are many tea sets are low in price and will work just fine for a child’s party.

3. Make Invitations
When it comes to inviting people to your party you may want to steer clear from purchasing invitations. Kids tend to love to get crafty so grab your favorite papers and let them create invitations for each of their friends. There’s a lot of ways you can get crafty with your invitations so make sure you gather the crafting supplies you have around the house. One easy way to get incredible invitations is to cut out little pictures of tea cups and kettles from magazine and glue them onto construction paper. You may also want to add plenty of glitter and other fun crafting materials like macaroni noodles and pipe cleaners. If you’re planning on inviting a lot of children then you may want to skip on sending the invitations through the mail. Instead, have your child dress up in her favorite tea party outfit and have a family day where you deliver each of the invitations in person. You could also send them with your child to school, but make sure you follow the school’s rules for invitations.

4. Games
Entertaining the children at the party will be one of your toughest feats. Instead of paying for entertainment you should look around the house for toys that could easily be turned into games. One simple game is musical chairs which only requires music and a few chairs to keep the game rolling. You may also want to look into finding items that will make a great scavenger hunt for the children. Board games are also a simple way to keep kid’s entertained, but don’t worry if you don’t own any. There’s plenty of game boards you can print out from the internet that will help make your party a success. You could also take things on the traditional route and start a game of crochet or badminton. You can usually find a set for either game at a very low price, but make sure to try used sports stores before you go out and buy a new set.

5. Grow Tea
If your household goes through a lot of tea then you might want to consider growing your own. There are many places that will sell plants that can help you get started on this amazing hobby. Tea can be tricky to grow but with a few free online tutorials you will easily be on your way to having delicious home grown tea that saves you a lot of money. Of course, you’ll beed to be able to have the tea planted and growing before you can plan your party. With the home grown tea you’ll be able to cut down a huge expense for your parties and you’ll be able to host more parties in the future. With your home grown tea you’ll also be able to cut down on a household expense so you won’t have to spend as much on groceries.

6. Dance
One great way to make your tea party memorable is to add a little dance. Kids love to get out on the dance floor, especially if you have some of their favorite music to dance along to. If the weather is nice then make a fat surface in the backyard to ensure a safe place for kids to enjoy themselves. Of course, if your prefer to keep the party indoors then you may want to clear our the dining room table and chairs in order to have a danger free zone for the kids to cut loose in. If the dancing isn’t starting off so well then try to get into the dance mood yourself. One of the best ways to liven up the party and get more kids participating is to teach kids different dancing. Micheal Jackson’s Thriller and the Electric Slide are some of the more exciting dances that kids tend to take to.

7. Dress Up
There’s nothing more exciting for a child than to dress up for a special occasion. With your party you should always make sure to have plenty of costumes for the guests to dress up in. It doesn’t matter if you are using over sized clothing or old Halloween costumes as children will adore playing a character while they’re at the party. If you’re looking for a cheap way to find costumes for your children then you may want to look at the thrift store. Most thrift stores will have a combination of clothes that range from classic party style to the traditional wedding dress. This can really let kids imaginations run wild as they create a persona to use at the party. Of course, you may want to keep it simple. If this is the case then you may want to do a quick scan of your own closest to see if there is anything unique children might want to dress up in.

8. Crowns
Hosting a tea party can be a royal event for a child, so make sure you’re stocked up when it comes to crowns and tiaras. Most children will want to feel extra special when they come to the party so make sure you make it look and feel like the children are royalty. This is easily accomplished by buying tiaras in bulk. This should be very cheap at a party store or even a dollar store. However, you may also want to set up an table for children to build their own crowns. This can esily be done with construction paper or cardboard that you pre-shape for the children. You shouldn’t need anything more than basic supplies like a glue stick and markers. Of course, the more elaborate the crown the more special your child will feel. So, make sure you have macaroni noodles that can easily be colored and maybe a few embellishment of party jewels that can be glues to the crown. This will take up some of the party time and will allow the children to express themselves.

9. Bulk Buys
Tea can be expensive if you go to the store and buy different flavors of the smaller packets. Typically your best choice for buying tea is to get it in bulk. There are plenty of stores that will provide you with large boxes of tea for only a fraction more than you’d pay for a smaller package. This is great for the tea party as well as the amount of tea used in your household. If you prefer to use loose tea then you may want to shop online for discounts that will far outweigh those of bulk stores. You may even be able to stock up on your favorite flavors so you won’t have to worry about grocery shopping for the beverage any time soon. If you’re planning on buying paper plates or plastic cups then you might also want to get these items in bulk. This can really save on the clean up time for your party and if you have a large group of people it is easier to accommodating with larger packages. You may also be able to find packets of sugar and cream in bulk packages which will really make your tea part seem even more incredible.

10. Coffee Pot
Making tea the old fashioned way can be time consuming, especially if you need to serve a lot guests. Most kettles require you to heat the for some time which can really your gas or electric bill go up more. One simple way to reduce this problem is to make your tea in a coffee pot. The tea simply goes in the filter area, or can be left in the pot while the coffee maker brews the perfect cup. Another great reason for using the coffee maker is you’ll be able to keep the water at a safe level to serve to children. The coffee maker will also quickly brew the different flavors of tea so the children don’t have to wait longer periods to get the tea of their choice. The coffee maker will also allow you to do other things, like serve the snacks or entertain the children, while the tea brews. This isn’t always possible when working with over the stove kettles or pots of boiling water.

Hosting a tea party will be a lot of fun if you take your mind off of the finances and put it back onto the party. There doesn’t have to be a lot of stress if you just follow a few simple steps to help save you the most on your fabulous party. With these simple techniques you’ll be able to have some tea party fun with your kids as often as you feel the urge to.

One simple way to give your home a renovated look without tearing down walls is to add a new coat of paint to your walls. This can really change the general feeling of a room and can provide you with a comfortable change that doesn’t cost thousands of dollars. Of course, if you’re still trying to keep to a budget you may be a bit worried about the task at hand. There are lots of different tricks to getting a paint job finished without forcing you to feel like you’ve spent too much money on the job. So instead of crunching numbers to make up for your high cost project you’ll easily be able to sit back and enjoy the beautiful new room you’ve created for your home.

1. Skip the Painter’s Tape
A lot of people think they need to tape off a room before painting, which can really add a lot to the final total of your project. Instead of working with painter’s tape you can easily find a solution to your paint problems. For example, if you’re working with tight edges around the ceiling or base boards then you might want to go around these areas with a fine tip brush. This will help prevent painting spreading onto the ceiling while also ensuring you can the area properly coated. It might take a bit longer to do, but you won’t have to worry about paint drips or missing areas. You might also consider removing the base boards and molding before you paint. This will give you an easy way to give the room a perfectly finished look without forcing you to tape off areas. If you plan on working with special designs for the room then try to buy a cheaper masking tape. It will cost you less and will do pretty much the same job.

2. Tablecloths
Protecting your flooring from paint drops is a must when you’re reworking a room. Most hardware stores will sell a painter’s plastic to put down to cover the areas. Unfortunately, this plastic has the consistency of a cheap trash bag most of the time, which can easily rip if you’re working with a ladder or certain types of shoes. Instead of worrying about this overpriced plastic you may want to look into getting some tablecloths. Most table cloths have a thicker design which will help prevent ripping and sliding while you’re working. Of course, a tablecloth won’t cover the entirely of a room, but they’re easy to put into place and the heavier design will help keep them in place. You should be able to get a great place on a tablecloth at a discount store and you may even be able to buy them in bulk packages. If you’re looking for the cheapest route possible then you might want to look at a thrift store to see if there’s any used one. When you’re finished with the job simply bag the cloths up for next time.

3. Moldings
When you’re working on a room make sure you remove the moldings before you begin painting and then set them aside and forget about them. A lot of people will paint these items first as they find it easier than to start in on the entire room. In order to save on paint you may actually want to get the room out of the way. Usually you will use most of your paint while working on the room, however there will always be a small amount of paint left in the bottom of the tin that isn’t always convenient to use on the room. Instead of simply throwing this paint out you can easily use it all to paint the moldings. This will also save you time as you can easily paint the moldings while you’re waiting for your last coat of paint to dry. They should be dry right around the time your room is.

4. Consider Primer
One major problem with painting is many people choose to skip out on the priming step. This can really become a huge waste of paint if you’re not careful. Primer is especially important if you’re trying to cover up a very dark color or if you’re going from a dark color to a lighter color. Primer goes on as a first coat so you won’t have to worry about using your good paint to keep going over the old paint. You might even notice that when you use a primer the color of your room will become more vibrant and colorful rather than dull and diluted by the older color. Primer is also a whole lot cheaper than the colored paint you will choose for your final color. So, if you’re going to use primer make sure that you do a second coat if you feel the wall needs it. This will prevent any major problems with your paint so you’ll be left with an amazing paint job when you’re finished.

5. Line Pan
If you’ve ever painted with a roller before you know how hard it is to clean out the pan afterward. A lot of people simply skip the cleaning step and start the cleaning process by just throwing the roller pan in the garbage. Instead of wasting a pan from your paint job you may want to try to line the pan with a garbage bag instead. This will allow you to pain with ease without having to worry about cleaning up afterward. When you’re finished with the job simply lift up the trash bag and store the pan away for your next job. This technique also comes in handy when you’re painting more than one color. When you’re finished with your first color remove the bag and add a new one for the second color. Then when you go back to work on your second coat you can easily use the same bag as before to finish the job.

6. Sales
If you’re looking for the best time to paint then you might want to consider waiting until there is a major sale. A lot of sales occur during the winter because most people don’t want to paint during the cold season. You may be able to find some amazing colors on sale, especially if you love the bright colors that are typically sold during the summer season. You may also want to wait for off trend paint colors. Just as in the fashion world there are also many color trends that occur in the interior design world. If you fall in love with a color that happens to be in fashion then you may want to wait awhile before actually purchasing the color you like. This will give you time to make sure you actually enjoy the color while also ensuring that it will be offered at a discounted price when you do get around to buying the paint.

7. Mistake Paint
A lot of people tend to paint when they absolutely have to. If you have a project that needs a quick redo then you may want to skip the planning. Instead head to your favorite paint store and ask about mistake paint. This paint is generally made up for other customers, but is a color that doesn’t meet their satisfaction. This paint might leave you planning on a whim but it tends to save you money in the long run. The mistake paint is usually marked down quite a bit to begin with since it is mixed in advance, but if you ask you may be able to get an even greater discount on the paint. Of course, you may only be able to buy one mistake paint to suit your personal palette so be prepared to spend a bit more for the second paint can.

8. Paint Thick
If you enjoy getting the job done fast and using less paint then you may want to take a note from the pros and learn to paint thick. A lot of people think that it is important to use all of the paint on the roller before going back for more. This can leave you with a thin coat of paint that not only will cause you to use more paint, but will also force you to do more work. Instead try working with more paint on the brush. This will lay on a thicker coat originally so you may not have to go back to work on that dreaded second coat. The thicker coat might also help you get a cleaner finish so you won’t have to worry about touching up the room any time soon.

9. Utilize Plastic Bag
Sometimes painting a room can take several days which means you’ll be cleaning out rollers and brushes everyday if you don’t want to waste money on new brushes and roller. Instead of having your brushes dry or dealing with spending too much time and water on cleaning out brushes you can place your painting material in a plastic bag to avoid them drying out over night. A lot of people will also place the bag in the freezer, but it should be fine to leave them tied up over night. With the bag keeping your brushes moist you should be able to get the job done without needlessly washing out brushes and rollers or dealing with materials that have dried out too much. Of course, if you’re working with more than one color you should be careful to place each individual color in a different bag so the colors don’t mix together. You can easily use grocery bags on this aspect of the job too, so you don’t have to spend more money on painting supplies.

10. Know Your Paint
When it comes to shopping for paint it is incredibly important to figure out what paint is right for your home. If you choose the wrong paint then you may end up with a finished product that you can’t leave up. Instead of wasting your time and money you should always make sure to know what type of surface you’re painting on before you actually buy the paint. With the correct paint you’ll be to get the job done in one period of time while having a result you can be proud of. If you’re unsure about your walls then you should ask a professional’s advice before you make your purchase. Most paint departments should be able to point you in the right direction, but you may want to bring a picture of your walls to help make it easier to identify the paint you need. One mistake many consumers make is accidentally picking up exterior paint for the interior or vice versa because they are often placed on the wrong shelf. This is an easy mistake to make, so make sure you check the labels before you check out with your purchase.

Painting your home can be an experience that leaves you feeling more pride in your home. With your knowledge of painting supplies and how to stretch your money further you’ll be more apt to give your home an update. These tips will improve the look of your home while also leaving you satisfied with the area you reside. You may even find that the money value of your home is higher than you ever expected it to be, which could help raise the value of your simple home update.

A home aquarium can bring a touch of magic to your home. The beautiful fish are a great first pet for many children and the unique of the tank can really add an important element to your home’s décor. Aquarium can be pretty pricey if you’re not careful though. With the different types of water, accessories and various ailments you need to prevent, you could easily spend thousands on a tank if you don’t what to buy. There are many ways that you can set up an aquarium for next to nothing though. So, take a step back from the ideas you have about your tank and check out these simple tips before you make any major purchases. You’ll easily find more pleasure in your aquarium due to the lack of spending.

1. Be picky
When you’re ready to add some fish to your aquarium it is very important that you play the part of the picky customer. Although it may seem frustrating to act this way in a store it is important to look at every fish carefully before purchasing. Fish are very delicate creatures and if you’re looking for some new additions in a pet store then chances are you could end up with fish that are already sick, injured or near death. This is why looking at your future fish is incredibly important. Try to find fish that look strong and healthy. Usually you’ll be able to notice if there is something wrong with a fish while it is in the tank at the store. Typically if the fish is paler in color, swimming a bit off, or hanging out awkwardly at the bottom or top of a tank then there may be something wrong. If you do choose to pick a fish that looks this way you may want to keep it isolated from other fish until you’re sure it is healthy. Of course, you may want to avoid it altogether if the pet store doesn’t have a return policy, especially if the fish you are looking at is pricey.

2. Coral
Adding some coral to your tank can really give it a new life. Of course, there’s a lot you should know before buying coral. Just as there are different types of fish to choose from there are also different types of coral. Some coral is a cinch to take care of while other types are incredibly difficult. If you’re not interested in keeping a meticulous eye on your coral then you may want to make sure you get an easy to care for species. Coral is a great way to save money on your tank though because many types of coral will keep the tank cleaner while also adding some beauty to the aquarium. Another great aspect of coral is you can sell it off as it grows. Simply keep your coral trim and sell the trimmings off to anyone that is looking to start some coral off in their own tank. You may even be able to sell some of your coral to a pet store for store credit which will help your aquarium pay for itself.

3. Monitor Everything
The aquarium is a sensitive little ecosystem in your home, so it is incredibly important to monitor it to make sure everything is okay. You should always keep an eye on the way your fish are acting as well as their physical appearance. There are many diseases that start out with one fish that could be easily stopped from spreading if you catch it on time. You may also be able to stop a fish illness early, without casualties, if you manage to notice the symptoms and apply the proper medication before it gets too bad. The more fish you keep healthy and alive the better off your aquarium will be. You should also constantly monitor coral and sea plants in your tank. The health of these items can greatly affect the entire aquarium so by ensuring any problems that do arise can be fixed quickly you’ll be saving a whole lot of money. One of the major factors you should monitor everyday is the ph levels of your tank as this easy to fix factor can keep your tank thriving.

4. Avoid Salt Water
Salt water tanks have a lot of beautiful fish and plants that can really make an amazing piece for any home. However, salt water tanks are incredibly expensive and hard to maintain. If you’re not looking for a major dedication then you may want to skip out on the idea of a salt water tank altogether. Of course, anyone that does have experience with salt water may not have as much of an issue, but it doesn’t change the expensive nature of the tank. When you want to create a salt water aquarium you have to have a lot of extra parts for the basic tank. This alone can run your hundreds of dollars more than the typical freshwater tank. After you’ve spent the extra money to set up a salt water tank you’ll have to worry about the different types of fish you’ll need. Generally salt water fish can run a lot pricier than fish from a normal freshwater tank, which is another thing to consider when you make your decision. If you’re thinking about a cheap starter tank then salt water is probably not the direction you should be going in.

5. Know Your Fish
Buying fish is like buying any other type of animal for your home. You know you can’t buy a small bird if you already have a home with cats who love to hunt. Thus, you can’t go into a pet store and pick out fish you think look pretty. Before you choose any fish for your tank you should always spend a little time to read into what fish are compatible. This won’t just help save you money, since you won’t waste money on fish who are going to die right away, you’ll also save the feelings of the children in the home. If you’re unsure about mixing certain fish then you may want to talk to someone that works in your fish supply store. Usually the staff will have a general knowledge as to which fish work well with one another. Of course, if they aren’t sure they usually have resources that will point you in the right direction. If you do a lot of research you may be able to find fish that aren’t just compatible but fish that work together to make the aquarium cleaner and healthier for everyone.

6. Go LED
If you’re picking or upgrading your fish tanks light then you may want to check into the whole LED light option. A lot of tank lights are a bit too hot for some fish and if you forget to turn them off after an extended amount of time they could do some major damage to fish that are more fragile in nature. Leaving on typical aquarium lights may also cost you more on your electric bill due to their non-eco friendly design. A lot of pre-packaged tanks now already become with LED lights because of their more efficient nature, but if you’re piecing together your own tank or upgrading an old tank then you may want to consider this add on. The LED lights tend to run much cooler than the typically aquarium light and they use less energy. You might have to spend a touch more to initially buy the light, but it will be well worth once you’ve installed it permanently in your aquarium.

7. Get Creative
One of the more pricier aspects of a tank doesn’t have to do with equipment or fish at all. In fact, a lot of people spend more money on decorations for their tank than anything else. There’s a lot of ways you can save huge on tank décor though. For starters you can easily find decorations around the house to make the tank look better. From old vases and nick knacks to using some of your children’s old toys, the tank can look incredible without you actually spending a cent. Make sure you sterilize everything you decide to put in the tank though, so the fish won’t get sick. If you can’t find anything around the house to use then don’t go to pricey stores to look for items. Instead check out thrift stores or dollar stores to find something cheap and amazing for the tank. You may also want to print out your own backgrounds. This will save a lot of money and will allow you to change the look more often. Of course, if you subscribe to many magazine you may find some great pictures to use as well.

8. Marbles
You may notice that a lot of people who keep aquariums tend to use the tiny colored rocks to line the bottom of the tank. Although this tends to give the tank a colorful look it can really become a hassle to deal with when cleaning. The tiny rocks have to be sifted through frequently and often don’t last for more than couple of tank changes. If you’re looking for a cheaper option then you may want to looking into marble rocks, or simple marbles. These items can usually be bought for an incredibly low price and are simple to clean. Tank marbles can be found in craft sections as well as the tank area because they are becoming more popular with fish lovers. They tend to have a wide selection of colors so you won’t have to sacrifice your décor for price. When you change the tank the marbles are easier to clean and can go back in the tank as many times as you choose to use them.

9. Shop Around
Before you make a huge purchase for your tank you may want to shop around first. In fact, if you’re just starting out you may want to shop for around for a pre-packaged tank. A lot of the time you’ll be able to get everything you need for a lot less than you’d pay for the items individually. This will allow you to save even more money that go on the fun elements of the tank, like the fish. You should try to find new products as often as you can, but if you’re looking to save a lot then you may want to look locally for a used tank. If you have to do this then you should make sure to properly sterilize the tank before using as you don’t want your fish to catch an diseases the previous owner’s tank might have. Finding a store that sells fish food in bulk is also a must as it will save you big in the long run.

10. Real Plants
Using plants to keep your tank looking great is one of the most popular choices. Of course, if you choose to use plastic plants you may end up spending a bit more for items that don’t last very long. Real plants can be a cheap addition to any aquarium, and may even help keep your tank cleaner and your fish healthier. You should be able to find real plants at just about every fish store so make sure to ask about the different types to help make your decision easier. Your tank will even look better with the fresh look of a real water plant.

Keeping an aquarium in your home can make a great learning tool for children and well as a fun way to keep pets. There are many ways an aquarium to make an aquarium your own, but with these simple tips you should be able to afford an assortment of products to create your own personal aquatic world.

Millions of high school students year begin their trek to become a part of their high schools marching band. Many students find a lot of solace in joining the band which helps make high school easier and more memorable for the student. Unfortunately, band can cost a small fortune for parents that are already worrying about financing a college education. If your student is considering becoming a part of the marching band then you may not want to worry just yet. There are actually numerous ways to make this expensive high school experience something that is affordable and rewarding for both parent and student. You may even find that having a child in band is one of your favorite aspects of being a parent to a high school student.

1. Used Instruments
Every student needs an instrument to take part in band and most schools don’t provide this for the student. That means parents are looking at a very pricey bill before band practice even begins. If you don’t have an instrument from an older child or yourself around the house then it may be time to start looking at thrift stores and pawn shops. These are two of the best places to find used instruments at a very cheap price. Of course, you will need to make sure the instrument works before you need it, so don’t rush into any sales without confirming the state of the instrument. If you don’t feel comfortable shopping for a big purchase in a thrift store or pawn shop then you might want to contact to the school about a low cost leasing store. Usually the school will have a list of music stores that offer great deals to students. You may even get a discount if you can prove your child goes to a certain high school. These stores are also a lot more trustworthy when it comes to instruments and may even have a rental or financing program to help you out.

2. Fundraiser
One of the best things about school activities is there is also room for a fundraiser or several. With your child working with the band there will plenty of opportunities to help fund their trip without you actually having to pay for anything yourself. The school tends to organize fundraisers throughout the year, but most schools welcome the idea of parents getting involved to help further fundraising for the school. If you have time to offer to the school then get in touch with your child’s band teacher to see what can be done to help the band have a better experience this year. When the band does have fundraisers then try to always be around to help. Of course, you can always do some fundraising on your own to help your student get the gear needed to be successful in band. If you need help buying the instrument, getting a uniform or supplying money for field trips then you may want to work up a bake sale, car wash or sell some old things around the house to help build up your funding. This will also teach the student the value of band which could encourage progression rather than allowing it to become a passing interest.

3. Hand-me-downs
Many of the items your child will need can be passed down from one band member to the next. If your student is the youngest then you may want to hold on to older children’s gear so you can pass it down without having to spend a lot of money. Most schools don’t change band uniforms year after year so your student shouldn’t be fine with an older model. Of course, you may also want to consider asking around group meeting to see if any of the older students might have a used uniform. Since teens grow so much during high school you may be able to buy a used uniform from a student a year or two older. A lot of students may also be willing to sell their cases, instruments and t-shirts as they upgrade to new equipment for the year. Finding the right hand-me-down for your student could make the transition into band much easier, especially when it comes to finances.

4. Volunteer
A lot of schools welcome volunteers when it comes to field trips, out of city games and other band activities that require more adult supervision. If you have time to spare then you may want to consider volunteering to help out your child’s band. Typically, volunteering not only allows you to spend more time with your child and get a feel for the band environment, but it can also help you save money on field trips for your student. For instance, if you volunteer to drive students to activities you tend not to have pay the fee that would have been paid for your child. You may also get reimbursed for gas money for each event you drive to. Occasionally out of town field trips require students to stay in hotels which requires a fee for parents. If you volunteer as a chaperone then you may be able to have the fee waived while also getting your own hotel bill waived by the school. The more time yous pend helping out, the better off your student will be when it comes to being successful in band.

5. Look for Scholarships
Most institutions encourage students to participate in groups like band, which is why there are so many different scholarships available to help these students out. If you’re having trouble with buyig your child’s band gear then light research should turn up a list of scholarships your child might qualify for. Good grades and an essay might be required, but this is a small price to pay to help you get the supplies you need for your band member. There are also scholarships available for students outside of school. For instance, if your child is interesting in furthering skills during the summer then you may be able to find a band camp scholarship that will give your student a foot ahead when the school year starts back up. Of course, most students are also interested in what the future holds. With a strong presence in band your student may even be able to earn a scholarship to help pay for your college in the upcoming years.

6. Set Money Back
Although it may be tough to give up a lump sum of money to fund your child’s band career, it might not be as tough to gradually put money back throughout the year. There are tons of ways to save a lot of cash gradually so you can easily pay for your students instrument, uniform and other supplies needed for band. One simple way to make this task work is to put back $10 every payday throughout the year. The money will add up fast and you’ll barely notice the money is gone. Another great way to really build up some savings is to put back $1 for every week in the year. As the weeks progress you’ll add more and more to savings until you can easily fund anything your student might need. Of course, it may work best if you start saving before your child enters high school so you can have a jump start when the bills come in.

7. Utilize Work Skills
When it comes to earning money for school you shouldn’t think twice about asking your child to do more around the house. Set up a chore chart that helps the child earn money through working around the house. You may even want to ask your child to branch out a little. Instead of hanging around the house during summer break ask your student to ask neighbors if they have any indoor or outdoor chores they would like completed. As the child earns money have them put it in a jar for band gear. This won’t just keep your child busy it will help them learn the value of money as well as give them a pride in the work they accomplished to do something they loved. To further work skills you may also want to have your student try out busking. This will force the student to practice more while potentially earning a little extra money for band gear. If you choose to go this route make sure the child is supervised and also check into city permits as many places do not allow busking in certain areas.

8. Buy Bulk
If your student decides to play a woodwind instrument then there may be some additional purchases that should be bought in bulk. As the student learns to play they will go through a lot more reids and other products that make their instruments work properly. The first year of band will probably require you to buy reids often, so you may want to find a store that allows you to bulk buy. This is one way to help save money throughout the school year. Having these little accessories on hand will also save you from any last minute shopping that might cause you to spend too much on an item. There are other items like cleaning supplies and clothes that you may also want to buy in bulk. These items generally cost a lot less when you purchase them this way and will ensure you won’t have to worry about the purchase for quite some time.

9. Cheap Repairs
Although you might not think about having to have repairs made on an instrument it is a very real problem that a lot of students have. If your instrument is older then it increases the likelihood of requiring a little extra maintenance. One way to counteract this problem is to find the cheapest repair shop locally. A lot of teachers may be able to steer you in the right direction, so you will be prepared if this problem arises. Of course, if the problem is small then you may be able to get a little help from your child’s band teacher. The teacher may even show the student how to mend the problem so they will know how to take better care of the instrument. Another way to deal with small problems is to look up tutorials as to how to fix them. In this age of knowledge you can find video tutorials on just about everything so don’t be afraid to look around and try before forking over a lot of money.

10. Ask for Help
The great thing about band is there is always some way to make it work. If you’re on a tight budget then you may want to have a meeting with your child’s school about your financial needs. Most schools have programs that will help a student fund their way through band if the parents aren’t able to. Even if you only need help for a little while the school can often work out something to help keep your child in band without forcing you and the student to stress over the financial burden. There are also other great programs in the community that can help you out. For instance, if you’re a part of a church group you may be able to talk to the treasurer about donations to help towards your child’s success. Some youth groups around the nation will also help out in order to provide the student with a great high school experience.

Band can be one of the most rewarding experiences for so many students so don’t let the finances scare you off. With a few easy steps and a little help from the school your student will be playing an instrument and making new friends in no time. As your students four years speed by you’ll be glad that band was a major factor in their high school career.

Your mattress can make or break your day sometimes. When it comes to shopping for a new one you can really get pulled into all of the gimmicks and end up spending way more than your budget allows. There are a lot of reasons why it is difficult to shop for a mattress and the vast selection is one of the main problems. Like any shopping fiasco there are actually ways in which you can stop and find many great way to cut down on the cost of your mattress purchase. This, of course, doesn’t mean you should have to sacrifice your comfort for your finances. Instead, with some easy to follow tips you’ll be sleeping in comfort without the huge price tag.

1. Don’t Buy the Hype
One of the major problems with mattress shopping is false hype campaigns. A lot of salesperson may try to tell you that the mattress they want you to buy is one of the highest rated on the market. This should be one indicator that you may want to move on to another store, or somehow ditch the sales person for awhile. Mattresses aren’t actually officially rated because there are too many elements that people need and want that one mattress could never be suited for everyone. So, if you hear a mattress is highly rated from a commercial then you may want to forget the phony review until you can actually judge the mattress for yourself. There’s a lot of hype on the market, so make sure you choose a mattress based on your feelings about it rather than what a salesperson tells you about the product. This will help reduce disappointed when the mattress is delivered and will help you find what you’re looking for without forcing you into a specific section of the store.

2. Forget the Design
Another major trap set up for consumers is the design on the mattress itself. A lot of manufacturers will actually design their mattresses to have a pretty design that helps draw people in to make the purchase. The design actually convinces many consumers that the mattress is of a higher quality that it is manufactured to be, which raises the price. Instead of going by sight alone try to look into the facts of the mattress, such as the type of cushion, warranty and how it feels to you. With the aesthetics put to the side you should be able to find a mattress that is much cheaper the the highly decorated one. After all, you’re not going to leave your mattress bare anyway. Instead of paying extra for all the frill you can invest the money in a nice comforter set to make the bed look good.

3. Comfort Guarantee
One of your main concerns when shopping around for a mattress is the stores that offer a comfort guarantee. This is basically an insurance for your mattress that allows you to return it to the store for a trade in or refund if you’re not satisfied with the product you purchased. This is especially important if you’re looking into trying out a new form of mattress. You should always look around for a comfort guarantee clause before you even decide to go shopping. This will allow you to have a bit more freedom in your selection instead of having to blindly purchase something you may end up hating. You should always make sure to read the comfort guarantee thoroughly before you purchase the mattress though. Some stores will charge a return fee, while others will only give you a short time to decide if your mattress is a match.

4. Start Low
A lot of first time mattress shoppers tend to want to head to the expensive section of the mattress store first. Surprisingly, there are a whole lot of amazing choices that will cost you a mere fraction of what the big name brands offer. If you’re a first time mattress shopper then you may want to try shopping on the cheaper side of the store for your first mattress. Try looking at off brands first to see if there is anything that actually matches your needs. Make sure you try out the mattress before you make any major decisions though. If you find one you make then give it a shot instead of brushing it off for a more expensive model. If you find it comfortable, but lacking in areas then you may want to shop for a more expensive mattress next time. Each time you replace the mattress try to upgrade a little until you’re entirely satisfied. Of course, you may be surprised to find that your lower cost mattress will probably meet all your needs and will keep a little money in your bank account.

5. Grow With It
A lot of families end up spending more money on their kid’s mattresses than anything else. This is largely due to the fact that most children get a mattress for each stage of life. Instead of shopping for several different mattresses throughout your child’s childhood you may want to find one that will be easy for a child to grow into. When you’re little one if ready for a big kid bed try to skip out on the toddler stage and move straight to a full size bed. This will actually allow you to create a safe space for your child to sleep in so rolling off the bed accidents will be very rare. Full size mattresses can be covered in pillows and other bumpers so kid will feel safe and secure while remaining comfortable in their big kid bed. As the child grows into a preteen and teenager you won’t have to worry about swapping mattresses to suit growth spurts. Instead the full size mattress will already be a part of your child’s bedroom so there is no major change or expenses that you’ll need to work around through this sensitive stage. Buying the full size mattress won’t cost you a lot more than a regular twin, so you’ll be well on your way to saving big as the child grows.

6. Accessorize
Some mattresses just need a little TLC to get them up to your standards. Instead of buying all of the bells and whistles for your mattresses you may want to utilize your accessorizing skills. One major expense for many couple is the dual bed that allows one partner’s side to be firm while the other’s side is cushioned. Instead of investing in this you can easily buy a regular mattress and a foam insert to help the other partner find the perfect level of comfort. If you enjoy a bed that helps heat you up then invest in hot water bottles instead of paying hundreds for a heated bed. You may also want to consider buying a mattress cover to help keep the mattress looking new while also preventing bed bugs from nesting in your mattress. A mattress cover can also work to help prevent allergies so you can easily sleep without irritants. You can also buy pillows that make sitting up in bed easier so you don’t have to purchase an adjustable bed. There are many things you can do to make your mattress comfortable without forcing you to pay a lot.

7. Buy From Factory
If you live in an area with a factory or warehouse you may want to skip shopping at the mattress store and buy directly from the factory. Usually if you have an idea of what you want to buy the factory will offer you a cheaper price than any store could. Of course, you’re giving up on benefits like free delivery, but with the savings you’ll receive you shouldn’t feel too bad about it. If the entire family is looking to get a new mattress then you’ll probably end up prospering a lot more than you think. Factories tend to offer better deal when you buy in bulk so if you all like the same mattress this is the way to go. If you don’t live near a factory or warehouse you may be able to still purchase direct from the companies website. Of course, this means you’ll end up paying a hefty shipping fee, so make sure the deal will help you save more than you could from shopping locally before you make the purchase.

8. Last Year’s Model
If you can’t live without all the bells and whistles then you may want to shop for last year’s model instead of the newly released model. A lot of the cooling, heating and adjustable beds have many of the same features so don’t worry too much about the upgraded version. If you can try to buy the oldest model you can find so you can enjoy your extra features without going bankrupt. One of the best things about older models is you can easily look at customer reviews to make sure the bed is something you actually want. Sometimes newer models will have glitches that you won’t find out about until you own the bed. The older models can be researched so you’ll know exactly what you’re getting into when you buy it. Not to mention, the older model usually drops significantly in price every time a new edition is released.

9. Shop Around
It is crucial that you do some shopping around before you decide on the mattress to buy. It maybe be best to look online before you go into a store as it will give you time to create a list of mattresses you’d like to see in person and how much they should cost. This list will help you bypass a lot of salespeople who tend to be a bit pushier when trying to make a deal. Your list will also allow you to go to a store, look at the mattresses you like, choose one and then leave again. If you feel the store you looked at had the best deal then you should buy it there, but don’t make the purchase without doing more research online or calling around to ask the price at other stores. Sometimes shopping around like this can actually save you hundreds, so don’t be afraid to take your purchase slow.

10. Sales
Luckily there’s a whole lot sales on mattresses throughout the year, so you if you can possibly stand to wait to buy you should. There tends to be a major mattress sale around most holidays, but you’ll find the best around military inspired holidays like Memorial Day. These sales are some of the best times to find new mattresses for your home, so bare with your worn out mattress if you possibly can. You may even find that some of these sales will even give you half off on your purchase if you find the right store at the right time. If you’re feeling lucky you may even want to try out your haggling skills. Some stores actually enjoy doing business this way which could leave you saving even more. If you aren’t into haggling then it never hurts to ask about free delivery and disposal of your old mattress. Waiving this fee alone can really save you up to hundred or more dollars.

Finding the right mattress can be a chore, but finding the right mattress at the right price can be almost impossible. With these simple tricks you should be able to find yourself in a comfortable be without having to tighten your budget because of the purchase. A mattress is one of the key elements that can make or break your day, so don’t end up sleeping on something that feels like cement because you want to save money. Instead, follow these simple rules and sleep soundly.

Keeping your home during the cold winter months can be tough, especially if you’re trying to keep a budget. Lighting a fire can be one of the best ways to help cut down on energy bills, but there are so many ways that even this basic way of heating can really throw off your budget. There are a few ways to make your fireplace work with you rather than against you though. With a little know how you’ll be able to show guests and family members how snug your home really is without having to run the heater all day and night. Instead of fearing your monthly bills, slow things down a bit by lighting a fire and enjoying the savings these ten tips will provide you.

1. Close the Doors
A lot of people want to heat up their home with a fireplace, but get confused as to why the heater turns on while the fire is roaring. Typically a fire will actually pull warm air into the room that the fire is burning. This means your heater will trigger on to heat up the rest of the house. In order to counteract this simply shut off the heater for a few hours. However, with all of the doors open your heated home isn’t going to feel as warm as it should. So, before you start up your log make sure you shut all of the doors in the home. This will allow the fire to pull in air from the room you’re in, so the rest of the house won’t feel like an icy wonderland. This might seem a bit farfetched to many, but it was actually proven on MythBusters that an open door home will be a whole lot colder than a home with cold doors. So, draw everyone into the room with a fireplace and have a few laughs in front of the warm fire.

2. Know Your Wood
Part of the joy of having a fireplace is to learn the ropes of making the perfect fire. One of the most important aspects of your fireplace knowledge is how much you actually know about your wood. Believe it or not, but the type of wood you use for a fire will really shape how you feel about lighting a fire in the home. The wrong kind of wood can cause your home to be overly smoky and might not even heat the home well enough. When you go to choose your wood you should find a piece that is dark or gray in color. This is only the first step though, you must also split the wood to make sure it is right for your fireplace. If the wood looks white in the center then you’re set for a warm and cozy fire that night. You should make sure to avoid woods that are still green or brown in color. Of course, finding the right wood isn’t the only step. You must also know how to properly store it. Wood should always be put in a dry area because wet wood will cause your fire to be disastrous.

3. Maintenance
One of the most important aspects of keeping a fireplace is keeping it maintained. This will not only save you money, but it will also ensure that your fireplace is safe to use so you won’t have to worry about any accidents that could cost you your home. You should have your fireplace looked at at least once a year. One of the best times to have this done is before it is actually cold enough to use the fireplace. Typically in early autumn many companies will start having deals on their services which can really help you save big on the inspection. Of course, a lot of gas companies will actually do this task for free too, so make sure you call and ask around before you pay anyone. Sometimes the inspection will result in nothing needed, but a lot of the time you’ll have to hire a cleaner to get rid of the build up from the previous year. You should always keep an eye on the fireplace when you use it though, as it will be obvious when you have too much build up.

4. Turn off the Gas
A lot of today’s fireplaces use gas to help build up the fire. If you’re looking to save some money you may want to avoid using the gas feature as it will bring up your bill significantly, which defeats the purpose of using the fireplace to save money. There are a lot of alternatives to help get your fire going so you may want to try out some other methods to see if they are actually cheaper. If you have absolutely have to use the gas feature then try turning it on to get the fire going and then turn the gas line off. Your fire may not burn as long as you would like it to this way, but you’ll end up saving on your gas bill while still providing a lot more warmth to the home. You can always start up another log the same way if you’re unhappy with the length of time you log burned, so don’t be discouraged the first time you use the fireplace without the gas.

5. Chimney Damper
If you don’t like going through the cold seasons without your fireplace roaring then you may want to consider getting a chimney damper. A lot of modern homes with fireplaces already have this feature, but many homes are still lacking a damper. This simple tool goes right over your chimney to allow filtration without forcing all of your warm air out into the cold air. Instead all of that warm fiery air will flow back down into the home to help keep you feeling a whole lot better about the temperature in your home. A chimney damper is pretty easy to install, so if you’re looking to save some money then you should be able to get a damper in with basic instructions. Of course, many places that sell fireplace accessories might offer a free install with purchase, so don’t be afraid to ask.

6. Use Glass Doors
Every fireplace is designed differently, but if yours is missing glass doors you may be losing out on some major heat. Glass doors are pretty cheap to buy if you’re looking for a basic look and are a cinch to install without any help. They great for preventing accidents with children and pets which is one major reason why you should make sure you have some doors on your fireplace. Of course, glass doors also help raise the temperature in your home. Glass is a great conductor of heat so all of the warmth off of your fire will bounce off the glass to help bring a whole lot of warmth to your room. Glass doors also make your fireplace look really great, which is an added bonus to your amazing fireplace.

7. Feed the Fire
One of the major problems with heating up your home using a fireplace is many people don’t know the type of flame that will provide the most heat. It is pretty common to believe that a roaring fire with big flames will give you a lot of heat for the home, but this is actually untrue. Where a roaring fire will give you some heat you won’t enjoy the same temperature as you would with a fire that is burned down a bit. As your log reaches the dark embers you are getting the maximum amount of heat from your fire. So, instead of feeding the fire when you notice it is starting to die down, you may want to wait awhile longer until your fire is a deep red. This will allow your home to reach the maximum temperature while still allowing you to build the fire back up. This will also help you save on supplies that you need to light a fire, as your wood supply will last longer and you won’t need to relight the fire over and over.

8. Fan Navigation
Controlling where your heat is going is a great way to get the most heat for your money when you’re using a fireplace. One of the best ways to ensure heat circulates throughout the home is to set up a series of fans that will help warm up the entire home. It doesn’t matter if you’re using ceiling fans to get the job done or if you have individual fans placed all over the home as the heat will easily make the rounds. Keeping a fan running is one of the least energy draining items you can use to help heat the home. In fact, it may take hours for your fans to financially catch up to the power a home heater or space heater will cost you in just a few moments of use. When you set up your fans make sure you turn the setting to go the opposite direction you would use during the summer. This will circulate the air without forcing it to cool down.

9. Turn out the Lights
When you light a fire you might want to go all out and save even more power. By turning out the lights and enjoying activities by the fire light you may find a new way to bond with our family that only cost you pennies. There are a lot of things you can do in front of a fire that don’t require any electricity at all. For starters, you can tell stories with your family or do a fun catch up session to learn about what has been happening in everyone’s lives. You might also want to share a book in front of the fire, or make a quiet hour where you all read your own book. A board game might even be your ticket for a repeat family night in front of the fire. If you can manage to shut down the lights for several hours a week then your fireplace will certainly save you more than you bargained for while also rewarding you with a simple family time your kids will remember for decades.

10. Free Wood
Buying ready to go logs can be one of the most expensive ways to keep a fireplace during the winter. Although a lot of logs you buy can be pretty convenient you may find that there are a lot of ways to actually find free logs for your winter fires. A lot of people like to trim down the trees before the winter ice sets in and cause breaks and damage to personal property. If you start with your tree trimmings then you’ll already have a pretty good stock for the winter. You may want to ask around whenever you see a neighbor trimming trees as they may be willing to give you their wood so they don’t have to haul it off themselves. You may also want to try websites like Craigslist to see if anyone is looking to get rid of some firewood. You don’t have to wait until winter rolls around to start stocking up though. Instead, make sure you grab wood throughout the year as it will help makes things a lot easier and faster when you need to light up your fire after a sudden cold snap.

Having a fireplace can be one of the greatest joys during the winter. It not only cuts down on some of your finances but it also gives you a sense of freedom and family bonding time that you won’t get during other periods of the year. So, instead of adjusting your thermostat for the cold try throwing a log in the fireplace and enjoy keeping some money in your ever growing savings account.

Every year we seem to come up with a list of resolutions that we think might make our lives better. From earning more money to keeping a larger savings account, people seem to want to find more ways to transform their bank accounts. One simple way to create a list of resolutions that may actually help you gain some extra cash is to think twice about ways that can get you more money without constantly keeping your finances on your agenda. With this simple list of New Year’s Resolutions you make take the plunge into a new lifestyle while helping to keep your finances a bit healthier than previous years. You may even be surprised as to how many of your resolutions will already put you on the right track to saving money in the upcoming year.

1. Drop a Bad Habit
We all have bad habits, but what we might not realize is how our bad habits can ruin our finances. There are numerous habits that really drain us both physically and financially, but many people continue to carry on because they enjoy it. One such bad habit is smoking. The average smoker spends over $2,000 a year on cigarettes which can really push you over the edge if you’re not keeping up with a savings account. If you can manage to slow down your smoking or quit then you’ll easily be off to a better start next year. Another bad habit that most households have is drinking soda. Occasionally, it won’t harm your budget too much if you indulge in a soda, but making them a daily party of your family’s diet can really ruin your entire grocery bill. Try replacing your family’s beverages with water, tea and other inexpensive drinks and you’ll find you will save hundreds during the year. You may even find that they’ll help you lead a healthier lifestyle.

2. Start Exercising
One incredibly free way to save money is start an exercise regime. If you can work out a free way to get moving then you’re on your way to an amazing money saving adventure. Exercising actually helps you save money in a couple of different ways. For starters, when you begin to exercise your mind and body starts to feel fit so you can easily feel better about the way you look. With your confidence boosted you’ll be able to meet new people, work more efficiently and love yourself in the clothes you already own. With your new fit lifestyle you’ll also have to visit the doctor’s office a lot less, which means less co-pays and more money in your bank account. Once you get in the routine of working out more often you’ll easily begin to enjoy the time you’re moving instead of looking for idle pass times. It is important that you might want to avoid spending high premiums at gyms though, so try to find free ways to take on your new hobby of movement. Running, walking, and work out routines can easily be accomplished for free, so have fun exploring your options.

3. Volunteer Time
One way to really help with finances while helping keep a strong connection with your community is to volunteer your time. There’s a lot of different ways to volunteer so make sure you check out everything in your local area to find something you might enjoy doing. If you can volunteer at least once a week you might begin to feel better about yourself and your inner humanitarian. You might wonder how volunteering can save you money because you’re basically giving away your time for free. Well, when you volunteer you’re taking away from you free time so you don’t need money to help keep you entertained. As you spend your time volunteering you may begin to feel a love for helping out others, which could lead to more volunteer hours. This is a great way to keep yourself occupied, especially if your hobbies include any activity that involved spending money. Of course, at the end of the year you’ll get a great tax deduction for your time spent helping out, which can really help you end your fiscal year on a positive note.

4. Read More
We’re all guilty of saying we’re going to read more and then opting to check out the latest sitcom instead. Well, instead of spending your time glued to technology or spending money on other activities you could always pick up a book instead. Reading is one of the cheapest hobbies out there and it can open up your mind to so many different ideas, cultures and adventures. The best thing is you can have instant access to so many books without actually spending anything. There’s a lot of free access books online that allow you to download to your favorite mobile device so you can enjoy the fun wherever you go. You can also get access to a library card for absolutely nothing. Simply remember to return books on time and you’ll be set for an exciting adventures that cost nothing at all. If you’re a collector then you may want to consider buying used books. There’s so many online that you can actually buy for a mere penny, so don’t forget to keep your options open.

5. Learn to Save
A lot of people go into the New Year talking about saving and find out by the end of the year they had no savings at all. One easy way to counteract this problem is to get a bit creative while you learn to save more efficiently. There are a few ways to easily put back a couple of thousand dollars a year without you actually noticing the money is gone. One example is the money saving challenge. This challenge has you put back one dollar for every week of the year. So, the first week you will put back one dollar, whereas the second week you will put back two. The most you will ever have to put back is $52 and you will still see over $1k in your savings account when the year is over. You may also want to keep in mind the 1/3 rule when you put back money this year. This rule allows you to use 1/3 of any bonus you might get for past bills, which can help you catch up on your expenses. Another 1/3 is to put in your savings account so you will have a nest egg for the future. While the last 1/3 is used for the present for whatever you may need or want at the time.

6. Learn to Budget
We all claim to have a budget, but so many of use actually don’t stick to our own claims nor do we know how to create a proper budget for the household. This year you may want to meet with a financial adviser to help create the perfect budget for your family or take some classes to help you work out your budget. By creating a budget you’ll be able to work closer with your family’s needs so you won’t feel the need to splurge or stray from what the household can actually afford. Once you have the budget figured out you can easily practice sticking to it. This will help you stay away from window shopping and other impulsive buys that force you to lose out on money throughout the year. With less being spent you’ll actually be able to throw your extra money into a savings account to help with the future.

7. Ditch the Cards
The plastic generation is one of our major problems when it comes to spending. The fact that all of our money is connected to the bank via an easy to use card can really make buying things on the impulse a whole lot easier. For starters, a lot of our purchases include things that are actually very inexpensive. A couple of these purchases don’t really harm you, but when you’re making them all of the time your bank account is really going to take a major hit. Instead of using you ATM or credit card to buy things try pulling out your budget’s worth of money before going shopping. This will actually give you some tangible to look at before you actually hand it over to the sales clerk. With your money present you’ll have a lt more control over what you choose to buy so you won’t have to worry about as much about going overboard. Holding onto your cash will actually prevent you from making charges that go past your limit, no matter how cheap they are. This can ensure you don’t have any negative withdrawals or overdraft fees next time you check your account.

8. No Fast Food
You might not realize how much your fast food bill can really hit your savings account. Typically eating out cost as much as two to three family meals combined, so it usually isn’t wise to go out to eat a whole lot. If you do go out try to limit it to once or twice a month and you’ll already start to see a huge difference in the amount of money that’s in your bank account. If you can cut down on eating out entire you may save up to $100 a month on eating, which can really make a big difference by the end of the year. Of course, spending money isn’t the only issue involved with fast food. When you eat unhealthy foods then you tend to add to your risk for health problems. This can mean more trips to the doctor as well as major problems later in life that could cost you a lot of money out of pocket.

9. Drive Less
With gas prices as high as they are you may want to considering stepping away from the car as much as you possibly can. Driving today can really drain your budget if you’re not careful so make sure you only go out in the car when you absolutely have to. With driving out of the way you may find a whole lot of fun options that will get you where you need to go without forcing you to pay a whole lot. For instance, you may want to get a commuter bicycle which can help you get in better shape while also allowing you to get to work in a fairly quick fashion. You may also want to scour around your neighborhood to figure out routes that are easy for you to walk while doing your routine errands. Of course, another option is to work out a carpool for work and school which could have you driving only a day or two a week.

10. Reward Yourself
Despite this resolution sounding a little spoiled you may find that a reward every now and then will help prevent you from spending too much outside of the budget. Instead of keeping yourself from treats you should periodically offer yourself something within reasons. For instance, if you feel you’ve worked hard or have a means for celebration then take yourself out to a nice meal, or get a new blouse as a way to boost your confidence. This little way to giving yourself a few reminders that you’re doing good will actually help prevent you from going on massive spending sprees or straying from the budget to get what you want.

As the New Year brings new and exciting things for you remember that a resolution is a great way to help improve the way you live. With these resolutions you will find a great new way to find happiness with yourself and with the money you’ve managed to put away for a rainy day. As long as you can manage to stick to your goal you’ll feel next year roll in even greater.

With the height of winter upon us it may seem like a lifetime before you’ll be able to enjoy a nice sunny day outdoors. Unfortunately, the amount of time we spend inside our homes during this season can also lead to a spending spree that isn’t exactly pleasant when it comes to facing in the rest of the year’s budget. There are a few ways that you can actually find some peace in the winter months without losing quite a bit of your savings account. In fact, with these simple tips you may decide that winter is one of your favorite times of the year thanks to all of the family activities and fun that you can have by using a little creativity.

1. Use the Snow
Snow can be one of the most magical weather conditions when it comes to saving money. Kids typically adore snow, which means you can look at several hours outdoors without your children getting bored or wanting to do anything that cost money. You should always try to come up with new ways to have fun in the snow, while keeping the kids active and having fun. One of the most common ways to use snow to your advantage is to stage a snowball fight. This will keep your kids as well as some of your children’s friends happy for quite some time. The running around will also keep them feeling warm and comfortable. If you’re looking for a more artistic way to play in the snow then have kids make a snow man using items you find in the home. You could also easily make a snow angel. A cheap activity for the snow that kids will adore is the mix up different colors of cool aid and let your kids paint their very own snow painting.

2. Improvise
When it comes to playing in the snow just about anything goes. Don’t be afraid to search your home for items that could easily be used as toys for winter play time. One of the more classic items to use is a lid from a storage container. This make the perfect sled as you and your kids power down hills on this useful household item. Another classic item to use is a broken tennis racket. This typically makes a great snow shoe for a kid so you can easily take a hike to check out all of the snowy areas in your neighborhood. If you’re caught in an unexpected snow storm or just have some fresh powder then make sure to look around the house for things you can use to have fun rather than going out and spending a fortune. Of course, you should always let the kids come up with some of their own ideas when it comes to creating toys they use for the snow.

3. Rent Gear
If you’re planning on trying something new out this winter, or you just don’t partake in an event often then you may want to consider renting the gear. Typically it is fairly inexpensive to get gear for certain activities and with a coupon you or certain vacation packages you should be able to save quite a bit. Ice skating is one of the top activities that renting gear is pretty inexpensive. Usually you won’t spend more than $10 on skates and rink time if you go the right rink. Skiing and snowboarding are also pretty high up there on the scale of activities you should rent for because the items are typically very expensive to purchase. Unless you plan on hitting the slopes everyday or you really love the sport, buying the equipment isn’t really something you should consider right away.

4. Kids Sports
One of the biggest reasons we spend more money during the winter is to keep kids occupied. With the outdoors off limits a lot of the time kids tend to get a bi stir crazy as they spend more time indoors. The best way to counteract your child’s cabin fever is to look for a winter sport to help keep the child entertained and busy throughout the year. Sure, sports tend to cost money to get into, but when you calculate the money you’re spending on lessons opposed to the amount of money you’re spending on entertaining them then you’ll see a big difference. Hockey is one of the most common sports during the winter season and can teach kids a wide variety of skills. Of course, if you’re looking for something different then you may want to consider signing your child up for martial arts or a dance course. If you can sign up your child through a youth program you’ll be looking at even more savings.

5. Movie Night
The movies tends to be one of the first places we flock to when the weather is too unbearable to do anything else. If you’re family tends to spend a lot of movie at the theater then you may want to start utilizing a movie night in your own home. This is a great way for the entire family to cuddle up together and enjoy movies that will have everyone pleased. The best thing about watching movies at home is you can watch anything new or old as many time as you want. If you’re looking to freshen up your movie might then you may consider renting a movie from a low budget rental agency or finding one on your streaming network. You should also consider healthy snacks that might have everyone feeling like movie nights are a bit better then actually going to the theater, which will save you hundreds on snacks and entertainment cost alone.

6. Bake Together
Nothing warms the home and the heart quite as much as baking with your family. Although you might not think your kids will enjoy baking you’ll be surprised by how well they take to kneading and punching dough down. Baking actually cost you very little, especially if you’re already stocked up on floor and other ingredients. While you’re baking you can cut down on the heating as the oven will help bring a warmth to the home that will make everyone comfortable. As you continue baking throughout the season you may notice a sudden decrease in your grocery bill because you won’t have to buy bread at all nor will you feel the need to look for sweet treats like cookies and cakes. Kids will love working on projects that are made especially for them. For instance, you can set up mini pizza doughs for a great afternoon lunch, or you could work on cookies with their own decorations.

7. Crafts
Getting a kids mind and imagination working is pretty simple when you present them with fun crafts. There’s so many different crafts that your kids can do inspired by the winter months that you may not have time to get around to all of them before the season is over. If your kids seems to be a bit bored then try to set them in front of the window with some paper and paints. Ask them to paint out how they see the winter landscape. If you want to take it to the next level then you can easily use tinfoil as a way to represent ice on the ground. Kids might also love creating their own snowflakes and hanging them from the ceiling. This is an excellent task for kids of all ages and only requires a little construction paper and some scissors. You could always broaden their horizon by teaching them a new craft like sewing, crocheting or working with wood. You may even have a blast creating projects, like birdhouses, for the upcoming spring months.

8. Use the fireplace
If your home has a fireplace then it might the perfect place to create entertainment without the price tag. The fireplace provides a cheaper and more efficient want to heat the home which will help save some cash, but it will also serve to bring the family together. Sitting around the fireplace will help you create lasting memories with your children that can be passed down from generation to generation. From telling stories about one’s lives to bringing up all of those camp ghost stories, the fireplace is one of the greatest places to listen and share as a family. The fireplace is also an amazing place to help get your kids into reading books. Sitting in front of the fire and sharing a story will make kids want to read more and will encourage healthier and cheaper hobbies. You may even find that you spend more time playing board games as a family than looking at electronic screens.

9. Organize
Although it might not sound like a whole lot of fun, organizing during the winter months can be a busy activity that costs you next to nothing to do. In fact, you may actually find that you get more money out of this activity, thanks to garage sales, than you would any other weekend entertainment idea you could pick this winter. Organizing can be tough because winter seems to be the time when everything begins to look cluttered. As you begin to go through your items you’ll probably find stuff you’ve been looking for for years as well as items you don’t actually need or want anymore. If you’re lucky you might even find a bit of money that was lost in the sofa or misplaced somewhere around the house. With your house getting an organized makeover you’ll be able to spring clean and get rid of junk when the time comes.

10. Keep Warmth in Mind
When it comes to winter activity one important thing is to actually keep your family’s warmth in mind. Being out in the cold can be fun for a little while, but if anyone you’re playing outdoors with begins to get too cold then you may be looking at an expensive doctor’s visit. One way to keep warm is to ensure winter jackets are thick enough for the current temperature. If someone doesn’t have the proper coat then try to make sure they layer up properly rather than going out and buying a whole new jacket. Another way to beat the cold with a jacket that isn’t quite ready for what the outdoors is offering then you can easily stuff newspaper into the jacket, pants legs and boots. This will help lock in heat which will allow everyone to enjoy the outdoors for longer without forcing you to buy anything you don’t need. If you’re also spending longer periods outdoors then you may want to pack up a thermos with coffee, hot cocoa or warm tea. This will allow everyone to have a beverage to heat them up without forcing you to buy anything from a store.

Winter activities can be pretty cheap if you work around the more costly activities. There are plenty of fun things to do while you’re enjoying the winter solstice that will still help you keep a great budget. So pull the kids out from in front of the television set and let everyone go out and enjoy some amazing activities while the snow and cool weather last.

Everyone wants to ring in the New Year right, but many tend to think doing this means spending a lot of money to have the party of the year. Although it is always nice to feel like you’ve done your best to say farewell to old year and hello to the new year it doesn’t mean you have to go crazy with spending. With New Year’s Eve just up the road it might be time to start thinking about frugal plans to get your holiday rocking without the price tag. There are many simple solutions to your party needs that won’t have you making a huge hole in next year’s budget. With a frugal start to the New Year you may find it much easier to follow suit throughout the year.

1. Start Late
Believe it or not, but the time you decide to start your party could actually effect the amount of money you spend on it. Starting the party much later in the evening can help you avoid some major cost like dinner plans. Since most people are guaranteed to stay at the party until midnight at the earliest you may find it easier to start the party around 9 or 10 p.m. This will allow you to easily keep everyone entertained until the ball drops, without having to burn through as much food and beverages as you would for a party that starts around dinner time. Starting the party later in the evening actually makes it more of a success too. This is largely due to the fact that you won’t have to spend as much time trying to keep people entertained. With a more relaxed host people will be able to go with the flow while you stress less about the dwindling food and beverage situation.

2. Internet Radio
A lot of people tend to go out and find new music to make their party the talk of the neighborhood. This can be a pretty pricey mistake though, especially if you don’t really listen to the items you buy after the party ends. Luckily there are so many different internet radios today that offer you free music. If you’re into making your own playlist to add that personal touch to the party then you may want to check out a program like Spotify which allows you to surf through its database of music to create your own personal playlist. There are a lot of radio programs now that actually have pre-made playlist for certain events so you may find some pretty good music there. The key is to give a few different programs and playlist a try in order to find the perfect match for your guest. The only downside is you’ll probably have to listen to a few commercials throughout the night, but most are short enough to give your guest time to catch their breath and get back on the dance floor.

3. Specialized Programming
Nothing says New Years quite like watching the ball drop at midnight. There are a couple of programs now that host a huge New Year’s Eve Party in New York City that consist of interviews, music and the ball dropping at midnight. This is a simple way to keep your guest occupied as they check out their favorite bands live or get caught up with some of this year’s headline events. The event will even promote conversation as the guest interact with the music and the people who made it into the interview room. Of course, nothing will get people ready to cheer on the New Year quite like the countdown, which is the best way to let the world know your party is happy to welcome 2014. The best thing is the program is free so you don’t have to worry about any excess purchases to please the guest. If you’re feeling really ambitious then you might want to bring out the projector so you can have a large screen edition of the party.

4. Use Christmas Decor
You don’t have to go out of you way to find exciting ways to decorate for New Year’s. In fact, a lot of the items you need might still be in your home from Christmas. With New Year’s occurring just a week after the Christmas buzz you may want to forget about putting up some of the decorations until you’ve coasted into the New Year. Sure, if you have a real tree then it might be time to get it out of the house, but there’s plenty of décor that can stay. For instance, tinsel is one of the most exciting ways to give your home a look that will celebrate the New Year. The metallic colors look great laying on mantle pieces or the table and will really brighten up a party. You may also want to leave out your holiday lights, especially if you have blue or white. These lights can be strung in different places of the home so you can turn out the lights while still having enough light to dance by. Holiday snowflakes are also a great decoration item that can keep your New Year’s looking festive.

5. Bring Champagne
No New Year’s party is really complete without the champagne to toast with so you might ask your guest to bring a bottle of their own. This will ensure everyone has something bubbly to drink as you count down while also saving you quite a bit of money. Of course, if you don’t want everyone bringing their own champagne you could also ask some guest to bring other beverages like wine or soda water. By having your guest help you out with the party it will start the New Year out with a more unified feeling which can help set the tone for the upcoming twelve months. Beverages are one of the biggest cost of a party too, so your guest will help you keep out of the pricey range so everyone can enjoy themselves.

6. Pajama Party
It might be tradition to dress your best during the holiday season, but sometimes traditions can be altered. One fun way to get your guest and yourself to save a bit of cash this New Year’s Eve is to skip the formal attire and move straight on to the pajamas. Pajamas will offer everyone a lot more comfort to dance and play games in so you won’t have to be as selective about the party entertainment you choose. Dressing up in pajamas also takes an edge away from the party that might make some people feel uncomfortable which can help promote more conversation and fun. One of the best things about guests wearing pajamas is if they don’t have a ride home after drinking then they can easily just find a place to sleep at your place. So, this season you may want to drop the hours of shopping for the perfect party dress and just rock the pajamas Santa brought you.

7. Board Games
If you’re having a hard time finding a cheap way to entertain your guest then don’t be afraid to go old school and bust out the board games. You might be surprised by how many people will gladly hover over a Monopoly board for hours. Depending on your collection of games you may want to set up a few tables with some of the classic favorite so people will be able to go from game to game throughout the night. Of course, if you aren’t a board game person there is no need to go out and buy all new games just for the party. There are countless improvisation and charade games that will make most guests happy to play. Sit down and right some titles on a paper for a quick game of charades or come up with some off the wall scenarios for people to act out before the party begins. If you’re not feeling creative then take to the internet and find some free ideas. You could also set out a few decks of cards and see how the party goes from there if you’re unsure of what your guest like to play.

8. Designated Drivers
One of the most dangerous aspects of hosting a New Year’s Eve Party is dealing with people who need to get home. Chances are a lot of people have already made arrangements, but sometimes plans fall through. Before the party begins you should have a couple of people pledge to be dedicated drivers for the night. You might also want to look for taxis who offer a discounted rate during New Year’s to ensure you always have a back up plan. With drivers set you should always have a game plan as to which guest live close enough together so they can be put into groups with drivers. This might sounds expensive, but at least you’ll know everyone is home. Of course, if you want to help alleviate some of the spending then you should ask for each guest to donate a dollar or two to help pay for the gas. If your party isn’t in your home then make sure you follow the same designated driver rules for yourself. One party isn’t worth jail time, heavy fines, losing your license or death.

9. Cheap Snacks
Feeding your guest is important, but it isn’t losing $100 on one cheese plate important. Sure, you want to make a great impression and keep everyone happy over the holiday but you don’t have to lose out on a ton of money to do so. When planning out snacks you should always check to see what is on sale in the freezer aisle. The better the bulk deals the more you’ll have to serve your guests. If you’re worried about the type of foods you should serve then step back and relax. When people are drinking they tend to crave the same kind of foods you’d feed a teenager, so don’t worry about loading up on frozen pizzas and tacos. You may want to grab a few vegetables like carrots or celery and a nice dip for those who aren’t into junk food though. You might also want to drag out a few of those leftover desserts from Christmas so they won’t go bad in the freezer. With a little improvisation you can get a pretty good snack bar going for less than you’d think.

10. No Paper Invites
In this day and age there is really no reason to waste money on paper invites for your New Year’s Party. Chances are a lot of people may still be out of town for Christmas and the mail might not even get all of the invites to the recipients in time. So, why waste money on something that can be done with the click of a mouse? Instead of getting paper invited try to log on to your favorite social media page. Most of them will have something to keep track of parties so you can easily invite everyone and have them RSVP in one simple area. Of course, there are many people who still don’t like social media pages so make sure to utilize email reminders or text people individually. You may even find it easier to remind people at work or give them a call to see if they’d like to come to your party. Whichever way you choose to invite people it will still save you more money then buy paper invites and sending them through the mail.

New Year’s Eve parties can be one of the best ways to give the New Year a fresh start so don’t mess it up with over spending. With these easy tips your party will be a huge success without you spending a small fortune on it. This party will help you find peace in the old as you happily welcome the new.

Celebrate an important culture this Kwanzaa when you bring together friends and loved ones for your Kwanzaa party. Although you may have spent quite a bit on getting your party together in previous years you may want to look into more cost efficient ways to keep your celebration fun. Sometimes Kwanzaa is particularly hard to fund because it falls between Christmas and New Year’s which can really overtake a budget. There are numerous ways to make Kwanzaa less about the money and more about learning about and celebrating a beloved culture though. With these easy to follow steps you’ll be able to utilize every aspect of Kwanzaa without having to stretch your budget even farther. So, stop stressing out about how you’ll meet all three holiday demands and let your Kwanzaa celebration begin.

1. Use Fruit
Kwanzaa is actually a celebration of first fruits so it makes sense that fruit would be one of the most prominent aspects of your celebration. Instead of worrying about decorations for your party you may want to utilize fruit to give your party an exciting look that can’t be beat by more expensive decorations. Fruit is simple to add onto wreaths, displays and other crafty ideas so don’t be afraid to get creative with your designs. To make your fruit last longer you may want to give it a vinegar bath which helps keep the fruit edible for longer. This will allow your guest to grab a snack whenever they feel hungry during the seven day celebration. If you aren’t really interested in using real fruit for your decorations then you might want invest in some plastic fruits. These are usually fairly inexpensive and can be used year after year to create the perfect Kwanzaa vibe in your home.

2. Celebrate Colors
When it comes to Kwanzaa you may want to keep things simple by following a simple color scheme. Typically you’ll want to decorate in red, black and green which opens up your decorating possibilities substantially. One easy way to add some colorful décor to your home is to shop the clearance section of a fabric store and find fabrics that fit the theme. If you stick with solid colors then you’ll easily be able to reuse the fabrics for other celebrations throughout the year. You can easily hang the colors on your wall for a simple background or you can create table clothes and napkins for a fun dining experience. You might also want to find flags for the kids to color in with these colors which will always make them feel like a part of the holiday while still providing your home with some fun décor.

3. Be Artistic
When it comes to Kwanzaa nothing is more fun than bringing out your artistic side. Instead of spending hours online looking for cultural pieces that could cost you a fortune you may want to take measures into your own hands. Instead, try looking up some traditional art online and using clay to mimic to the statues. You might even want to get some green, red and black playdough for the kids so they can come up with their own cultural statues to display in the home. After a few years you’ll have so many decorative pieces you won’t know where to put them all. You could also download some Kwanzaa printouts to keep the younger kids busy. If you aren’t into sculpting then you could lay out paper for and paint images of what Kwanzaa means to you. Once they’re dry make sure to find the best place to display them so everyone can talk about your art and how they feel about Kwanzaa too. If you’re low on artistic ideas then you may want to take to the internet to find even more crafts you can do for this holiday.

4. Utilize Farmer’s Markets
When it comes to your holiday feast you may want to steer clear of the local grocery store. Kwanzaa is a time to celebrate the fruit of the land, so what better place to shop then your local farmer’s market. Try to make a menu that works around some of the best priced local fruits and vegetables so you can feel like you’re celebrating the season as well as your culture. The Farmer’s Market is the best place to find the fruits you’ll want to serve, snack on and decorate with so make sure you find an abundance of delicious taste. It is also the best place to buy the ears of corn that are meant for your table. For each child in the household you should have one ear of corn to represent your family’s prosperity. If you don’t have children for your celebration then come up with another reason to celebrate and use the corn to represent that. With the farmer’s market items you’ll have the best quality foods you could hope for at a price you’ll want to celebrate.

5. Homemade Gifts
Although Kwanzaa isn’t all about the gifts many family’s still like to give out a little something for the holiday. This could be pretty difficult considering many people have a small budget due to Christmas. Instead of going all out and buying gifts you may want to try to make something for each guest that comes from the heart instead. There are so many things you can make for people that spread the meaning of celebration as well as your love for them. A poem is a great way to use your talents to give someone something special that helps represent Kwanzaa and your personal relationship. If you don’t want work with words then you might want to try painting a picture, knitting a scarf in the classic Kwanzaa colors or creating a decoration that can be used for next Kwanzaa. Another simple gift is to create a bracelet that represents the seven candles of Kwanzaa by using beads. Whichever direction you decide to take your creativity in your guest will certainly feel the love.

6. Candles
Kwanzaa requires a certain kind of candle to help kick off the celebrations. Typically the candles are meant to be made of all natural ingredients and have no scent at all. You will also need three red, three green and one black. Sometimes finding these candles at a decent price could be a bit troublesome which is why it might be a better idea to learn how to make your own candles. There are many kits available now that are low cost and can get you started making your own holiday candles. If you are experienced with candle making then you should be able to buy the ingredients at a low cost. This will also allow you to make bulk candles so you can stock up for next year, give them out as gifts or keep an extra set just in case something happens to your original set.

7. Kinara
The Kinara is one of the focal points of the Kwanzaa dinner table, but that doesn’t mean you have to spend a fortune on a new one. In fact, you want to try to be as natural as possible if you can. The Kinara is a simple piece to make so don’t worry if you’re not great with crafts. Typically it is made out of a piece of driftwood or other woods that don’t really cost a whole lot at the lumber store. You can easily pick out the best piece for your home though because there is no set wood for the design. Typically the Kinara has seven holes that are easy to drill to fit your candles. If you aren’t interested in making your own then you may have an easy time finding a Kinara in a drift store on a clearance sale after the holiday is over. You might even have your kids make their own Kinara made out of toilet rolls or paper to give them a key role in the holiday process.

8. Invitations
Finding invitations to send out for Kwanzaa might be a bit tough because you tend to have to order them online. It might also be a bit pricey because the invites tend to be custom orders that rarely have a discounted price. Of course, sending out invitations also means you’ll have to pay for postage and hope that the invites get to the guest in time for the party, which is particularly hard since Christmas takes place the day before Kwanzaa. Instead of worrying about all of these factors you might want to look for a cute e-invitation you can send through the email. You could also easily form an invitation group on your favorite social media site or simple text the invite to each guest. If you want to be creative then you may want to take to a photo editing program to create your own Kwanzaa card, or print out a premade invite from the internet. If you don’t want to mail them then hand them out as you see each guest throughout the season.

9. Make Own Clothes
If your family is looking to go the traditional route this season then you might want to look into making your own traditional clothing. This will allow you some creative freedom while also allowing you to save a whole lot of money on the clothing. Typically you can buy a pattern for African clothing online for fairly cheap, but if you’re looking to save even more money then you may be able to download one from the internet or watch a tutorial that will serve as a good guide for your task. You should also be able to find fabric for these clothing at a fairly low price, especially if you’re willing to shop around a little bit before you buy. Usually if you stick with solid colors you’ll save more than you would on patterns, but if you want to go the extra mile you could also use the scrap material to serve as napkins and other décor items. You might even enjoy making the clothes so much that you’ll start creating more for next Kwanzaa to sell as a side business.

10. Entertainment
Kwanzaa is one of the easiest holidays to entertain for. Traditional songs will keep your guest pleased for hours so make sure to do some research to find music to play at the party. If you’re really interested in singing for the holiday then print out lyrics for everyone so you can create an entire chorus in your home. You should easily be able to find a Kwanzaa playlist on internet radio or you might even find videos of the songs online which can help guests learn dances and songs. As the party begins to cool down then you might want to have guest ease into traditional stories or classic Kwanzaa tales that can be found in a wide assortment of books or online. Guests may also want to talk about their heritage or the meaning of Kwanzaa which is great for younger kids to learn more about what they’re celebrating. If things tend to get boring then you might want to pull out some games. You should be able to find some traditional games online that can be recreated with household items or you can easily pull out a classic board game to unite everyone.

Although Kwanzaa is placed between Christmas and New Year’s it doesn’t have to get pumped because of your budget. You should be able to pull off a holiday everyone will remember with these easy to follow steps. So let Kwanzaa become a celebration again and forget all about the expenses it might cause you because this year your holiday will be measure in love spread and fun memories rather than how much it cost to throw your party.

Family portraits can be a bit of a struggle when it comes to getting everything perfect. There’s outfits, uncooperative family members and the budget that cause enough of a struggle to make you want to postpone the tradition. Of course, with the holiday season upon us there are a lot more people wanting to get together and capture the memories with a professional photographer. If your family loves to have an annual portrait made then you may want to stop and check out these tips before you make any decisions. With a few extra steps during the planning stages you should be able to eliminate the financial burden of your family portraits no matter time of the year you decide to partake in the activity.

1. Join a Members Club
Anyone who knows how expensive it is to get portraits made more than once a year should know just how much a members club can help you cut down on your major costs. There are a number of portrait studios such as JC Penny and Olain Mills that have a photography club for anyone who loves to keep up with their family’s growth. Typically it is absolutely free to join these clubs so there’s really not reason not to give it a try if you love to partake in family portraits. The clubs generally provide you with a discounted price whenever you make a purchase. A lot of them will also offer you a freebie each year that will make your purchase even better. Another great aspect of the member’s club is you will always get updates that will provide you with sales information as well as when you can start getting holiday inspired portraits for you family.

2. Get the Newsletter
If you aren’t picky about where you get your portraits taken then you might want to sign up for as many newsletters as you possibly can. Newsletters are a great way to conquer the whole portrait burden while saving you quite a bit in money. Usually it’s free to sign up for a newsletter so make sure you put your email on as many as your heart desires. Most newsletters will inform you about the company’s changes, but it will also give you the opportunity to be the first to find out about future sales and deals that can make your family portraits something to look forward to. Many different companies will actually send you exclusive coupons in the newsletter as well, which can really cut down on seasonal purchases.

3. Birthday Club
Any parent should be privileged enough to know about the birthday club. For generations many photography studios have offered this club to the children of family’s who get their portraits taken with the studio. The birthday club allows you to sign up your child using their birthday and is typically no cost to you. Every year when your child’s birthday comes around you’ll get a coupon to have your child take a portrait with their upcoming age. This is a great way to cut down on your child’s portrait cost and will give you a great image to remember your child’s age as the year’s pass. Usually the coupon will provide you with a free set of images, which could help you cut down on the cost that you spend each year. If you’re interested in the birthday club then you may want to do a little online research or call up your favorite portrait studio to see if they participate in this exciting club.

4. Know Your Rewards
One of the main reasons that portraits tend to cost a lot is because many people are giving up rewards that they don’t know they qualify for. Most photo studios have a long list of clubs and affiliations that will provide you with a hefty discount as long as you know to ask for it. Of course, this could be difficult for anyone who doesn’t have a copy of the magical list. So, if you think you may have some reason to get a discount then it is always safe to ask. Some affiliations include having a AAA membership or serving in the armed forces. There are usually several local clubs that can help you save some money too. Even if you can’t get a discount at some studios you may have better luck at a different location so don’t get discouraged at first as you may be qualified for even more at a different studio. If you’re counting on a discount for your portraits then you may want to call in ahead of time so you can confirm the discount is yours.

5. Hire an Amateur
There are an abundance of amateur photographers that are looking to improve their skills and show off their work to the public. Although they may not be certified to professional work in a studio you may find their skills are perfect for your family’s portraits. A lot of students will post up ads to work with family’s in order to earn credits with the school or simply to improve their portfolio. Usually these amateurs will only charge you a fraction of what a professional studio would so it is always a great option when you’re looking to save money. When you do choose to work with an amateur you should make sure to go through the photographers portfolio first. This will give you an idea of their skill level as well as if their work will suit the type of portrait your family is looking for. With a little bit of searching around you may find that the perfect amateur photographer can provide you with photographs that outshine the pictures you would get at a professional studio.

6. Coupons/Groupons
Like all shopping you’ll always find that coupon can really make any purchase feel even better. Most professional portrait studios typically have a wide selection of coupons that will suit first time customers as well as their regulars. Before going to get your family’s portrait you should always make sure to check out the local ads or call up the studio to find out if they actually have any available coupons to use. Another great way to cut down on the cost is to look for a groupon. These coupons are perfect for couples looking to get engagement photos or for seniors who are interested in getting some group pictures taken before they have to bid farewell to friends. Groupons can be found all over the internet so you won’t have to spend hours looking for a way to save you big.

7. Order Small
One major problem with ordering portraits is many people actually want to go after the biggest package the company offers because they feel like they’ll never be able to get the prints again. Most of the time the extra prints end up in a shoe box in the top of the closet which makes ordering such a large order a huge waste of money. Instead of going crazy over the package deals you may want to take a step back and breathe before you end up wasting hundreds on prints. When it comes to purchasing your pictures you should always buy as little as you can. Most company’s require you to purchase a basic package which usually doesn’t cost a lot. This is pretty much all you will need if you also order the disc that contains your pictures. With the disc you’ll be able to go to a department store and get prints for mere cents a piece, which will really save you hundreds in the long run. It will also mean you’ll always be able to keep the photographs even if the pictures end up getting water damage or lost later on.

8. Keep it Comfortable
Wrangling up the family can be one of the toughest aspects of getting a portrait. One way to avoid making everyone entirely miserable during the process is to have everyone wear clothes that make them feel comfortable. A lot of family’s love to have the traditional dressed up look, but this can really ruin a photograph if you have small children. Until your kids are older you may want to just give in to the Spiderman t-shirt and light up sneakers, after all it is what your family looks like on a daily basis anyway. Without having to dress up for the pictures you won’t have to spend a lot of money buying new clothes for photographs anyway. This can really help you save on the amount your portraits cost your budget. Of course, with everyone feeling comfortable and relaxed you’re more than likely not going to spend as long in the studio and you won’t have to pay for pictures of a family that looks less than spectacular.

9. Schedule It
Knowing when you make the appointment for your portraits can be one of the best ways to avoid spending too much money on your portraits. Typically around major holidays prices can really sky rocket and the longer you wait to get the pictures taken the more you’re going to end up spending. Instead, try to get your holiday photos taken care of before the rush begins. You may end up having to sacrifice the holiday props, but if you bring your own the photographer usually won’t mind using them. Another thing to consider when scheduling is your own schedule. If your kids have a specific nap time or a busy day at school then you may want to wait until they aren’t tired or stressed to take the photo. The same can be said when it comes to any of the adults in the photo. If there is anything that might make getting to the studio a problem then you should always avoid it as it may make you purchase photographs that are less than perfect.

10. DIY
A lot of people tend to overlook their technology when they think about family portraits. Most people have good quality cameras that have automatic buttons so you can easily set a timer to take a family photo. Doing your own photography could allow you to capture priceless moments your family has, rather than staged pictures that tend to look stiff and unnatural. Using your own skills to capture your children is one of the best things you can do as it will help capture how they really are rather than forcing them to smile or taking them out of the element in order to capture them at a certain age. If you really want to get into the images then you can digitally edit them with software you already own or a wide selection of free software that is available online. This will allow you to give the pictures the professional edge they need so you can feel proud to present them to people you love. You may also want to try to print them at home to get the entire DIY experience. Of course, this isn’t an option for everyone so you may want to looking into department store prices so you can save the most on your final product.

Capturing the essence of your family is an important way to document they way everything has changed. With children growing before your eyes and new additions added to the household all of the time you’ll love having portraits of your family through the various stages of your life. With these simple tips you’ll be able to afford getting your family’s portrait captured as often as you like, so you won’t have to miss a single moment of your family’s change over the years.

With Christmas Day rapidly creeping up it might seem frightening to even consider how much you’ll end up spending this holiday season. Although there is always that desire to get everyone what they want for the holidays, it often isn’t financially smart to do so. There are a few ways to give some pretty amazing gifts this holiday season without forcing yourself into a debt over the items. Holiday shopping is one of those tasks that are often dreaded because of the amount of money that goes into the process. With these tips you’ll be able to find some peace and fun in this annual tradition which will leave you anticipating the holiday rather than stressing out about it.

1. Shop Early
One way to avoid the holiday stress is to simply do some shopping early. Anyone who has ever ventured out on Christmas Eve to deal with a forgotten gift knows how hard it is to find what you’re looking for, let alone pay the monstrous price for it. If you start your shopping months in advance you may find you’ll actually be able to avoid the holiday stress and instead celebrate the tranquility of the season. If you’re feeling really ambitious then you may want to start out on your shopping as early as January. If you see an item someone would love to have then go ahead and get it if the money permits. This will give you a stock of gifts before you even have to worry about who is on Santa’s nice list. It will also allow you to have money to spend on everyone, rather than trying to squeeze in the huge price tag of the holiday in three or four paydays.

2. Avoid Online Shopping
Shopping online may seem like a great option when it comes to getting everything you need for the holidays. However, unless you can find free shipping on your purchase it may not work out in your favor. There are actually very few items that can be ordered online during the holidays that will actually save you money. Instead, you should always do a little research and pick the item up at a local store. Typically, when you shop online your shipping alone could end up making your purchase $20 to $30 more than you would spend in an actual store. Occasionally there is a great purchase, but it is usually better to avoid to shopping via the internet unless you are simply window shopping. Although it may seem inconvenient on your end during this busy season it is actually cheaper to tackle the long lines to get the items you need.

3. Make Gifts
If you’re looking to save as much money as possible then you may want to put your craftsmanship to work instead of spending a fortune on commercial items. A homemade gift is a great way to make someone feel special while saving you a whole lot of money. If you’re looking to make gifts for your loved ones this year then you may want to start working on your projects early in the year as it will give you plenty of time to get everything ready without leaving you stressed out during the holiday season. A lot of people have specific skills they love to utilize, but if you aren’t sure about your crafting niche yet then you may want to look up some holiday projects online. There are a lot of websites dedicated to helping you find cool crafts and showing you how to make them. One of the most common holiday projects is making a custom holiday ornament that can be brought out year after year. You can also use your skills to make your own holiday cards so you don’t have to worry about spending money on bulk cards too.

4. Draw Names
One huge problem during the holidays is buying for everyone on your list. If you have a lot of friends or a big family then coming up with a budget to get someone a little something can really hurt your household budget. The best way to remedy this problem is to draw names during the holiday. This will allow everyone to spend a bit more money on their gift and will ensure that everyone in the group gets at least one gift. If you have multiple groups to buy for then this will certainly make the holiday gifting a lot less burdensome and will require a lot less time on your part. You may even want to turn the holiday ritual into a Secret Santa party or a game where each person gets to trade off gifts. This will even bring a little bit more fun to your holiday parties.

5. Avoid the “it” gift
It happens every single year. There is one item or another that hits the market just at Christmas time that every child or adult absolutely has to have. Of course, every year the “it” gift is ridiculously expensive and will certainly cut into your holiday budget. Although it might be everyone’s must have item you should probably try to avoid this gift at all costs. The “it” gift tends to be something that is well advertised through the season so everyone believes that have to have it, when reality is that most people will lose interest in before the New Year happens. Instead of wasting a fortune on this gift you might want to look for something that is similar. This will give the satisfaction of having the gift without forcing you to pay the price tag. For instance, there are numerous jewelry trends that feature similar items that aren’t even close to the price of the “it” item. Kid’s must have toys can usually be replaced by items that are similar or something you actually know your child is going to use throughout the year.

6. Shop Sales Only
Many people lose out on a lot of money because they only shop full priced stores for their holiday gifts. Although it may seem easy to shop in these stores, it is just as easy to take on the outlet stores who offer many of the same items for a whole lot less. These sales stores are designed to give you more for your money, so make sure you take advantage of the amazing deals during the holiday season. You may also want to avoid your favorite stores until they are having their holiday sales. This will help you get items at a better price which could help you afford more gifts for friends and family. Of course, nothing really beats shopping for items in the clearance section as there is generally something for everyone at a price that is more than friendly for your price limit.

7. Research Before Buying
One of the worst things about holiday shopping is finding an item you’ve purchased recently at a lower price. One way to remedy this buyers remorse is to do a whole lot of research before you actually make your purchase. This can be tough during the holidays because you want to make sure you secure the perfect gift, but with a little patience you’ll find your gift shopping can save you money if you avoid impulse buying. With your research taken care of you can sit back and enjoy wrapping the gifts and anticipating the day they’ll be opened. Of course, you could also research stores that will match prices. This will allow you to take back any items you find cheaper so you can still receive the best possible price on them.

8. Layway
If you tend to be an early shopper then you might want to consider using a layway program. A lot of department stores and some technology stores will allow you to go shopping and put a hold on the items you have so you can pick them up at a later date. This allows you to put down a down payment on the items so you will have a hold on the must have gifts that might fly off the shelves this season. With your gifts saved for your family you won’t have to worry about doing any more shopping. The layway program allows you to put money down on the items each month until you pay them off, which is a great way to make sure you don’t spend too much money during one particular pay period. If you end up finding an item that you’ve placed on layway for cheaper elsewhere then you can remove from the layway and get a full refund on the money you’ve already put down on the item.

9. Make a List
There’s a pretty good reason why Santa Claus makes a list and checks it twice. One of the easiest ways to save money during the holiday season is to sit down and make a list before you do any shopping. Make sure you write down anyone you may need to buy a gift for so you won’t end up doing any last minute shopping as this tends to cost the most money. Your list can even get complex enough to point out the different price levels you are willing to spend on each person. Thus, you can calculate potential spending before you actually go to the store and buy things. With this information already decided you won’t have to worry about going over the amount stated on your list which can help you avoid going crazy on shopping during the season.

10. Set a Budget
For the best possible way to save money on your holiday spending you should make a budget and stick to it. Make sure you go over your finances well before you decide on how much you want to spend over the season. This doesn’t mean you should decide to spend money based on how much you have on your credit card. Instead you should work out your finances so you know exactly what won’t leave you in a bind when the holidays are over. With this in mind you’ll be able to set a spending limit for each person on your holiday list. If you can stick to the amount of money you set up for each individual you should have absolutely no problem saving over the holiday season. Of course, the trick is actually spending the time to come up with the best possible budget for your holiday and future finances, so make sure you check your number more than twice.

As the holidays grow nearer you may be concerned about how much you’re spending on gifts. With these easy tips you should be able to get just what you need for a lot less than you’d normally spend on your holiday expenditures. You should never let the meaning of the season get lost in the commercial attraction of the holiday. Instead cool down before you make any shopping decisions and check out how much you’ll be able to save by simply following these tips. With your finances looking great you may find that the holiday season may become one of your favorite parts of the year again.

With the month of December already upon us and moving along rapidly it may be time for you to start planning out your traveling plans. The holidays is one of the most rushed and uncomfortable times to hit the road or the airlines and can really cost you a bundle no matter how many deals you find. After the stress of looking around for traveling deals you may find that the best deal of all is simply staying at home. If you’re looking to save money this holiday season then you may want to ditch your traveling plans and enjoy the holiday festivities at home. If you’re still not certain about staying in this season then here’s ten reasons that might make you want to.

1. Traffic
It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling across country or your staying in the same city because you’re going to run into traffic everywhere. With everyone taking to the stores to get their shopping finished and people looking to travel to loved one’s home you may find that the roads take twice as long to travel on. The more traffic there is on the roads the more gas money you have to spend during the holidays and the more time you have to spend away from those that you love. If you decide to drive longer distances then you may find yourself making terrible time and having to stop more frequently compared to a normal road trip. The worst aspect about the higher traffic rate is the sheer fact that there are several more accidents during the holiday travel season which could turn your travels into a disaster. So, you might want to take the road as little as possible and find things for your family to do in the home or within walking distance.

2. Hotels
Finding a hotel room during the holiday season can be one of the biggest sources of frustration, especially if you’re looking for a room or two in a larger city. During the holiday seasons hotels tend to book up rapidly so if you don’t have a hotel booked before Halloween you may end up staying somewhere less than desirable. Hotel prices also sky rocket during this busy season as hotels know their rooms are in demand and people won’t think twice about paying the increased price. A lot of the time many of the hotels will actually increase the price of their services, such as room service or basic fees, in order to make a greater profit during this time of the year. This can really cut into your holiday budget substantially so if you don’t have a family member to stay with you may want to cancel your trip and enjoy the savings in your own comfortable home.

3. Loss of Work Hours
Everyone knows that the holidays mean a whole lot of spending and a little less working, which could cause a problem in the upcoming months. If you decide to travel for the holidays then you’re going to lose some of those valuable hours that will help you earn enough to pay off the high price of your holiday. For many, traveling takes up a good portion of their time off work too. Thus, you lose out on the work hours to spend hours trapped in the car or on a plane. If you really have to take time off work you may want to consider doing something you’ll enjoy rather than wasting the time getting to and from your holiday destination. Of course, staying home for the holidays means you can work up the actually holiday so you don’t have to miss out on the work hours nor will you have to sacrifice the time with friends and family on the actual holiday. This may even help you prevent having to catch up with work when the holidays are over.

4. Long Distance
Chances are if you’ve traveled on the holidays at some point or another you’ve gone to great distances to get to your destination. This typically means taking an airplane, train, bus or driving. Each of these means of transportation can cost you a fortune during the holiday season. Airlines book as many people as possible on planes during this busy month while still increasing the price of the airline ticket. So, for a hefty price you’re going to end up cramped with strangers for hours at a time. Trains can run pretty expensive too and with unpredictable winter weather you may find yourself stuck in a part of the country you would never want to spend your holiday in. Buses might be a cheaper way to get where you want, but most of the time they take three times as long to get to your destination of choice. So you could be stuck for days on an overcrowded bus that fails to meet your basic traveling needs anything. If you choose to drive you’re going to end up spending a fortune on gasoline while also getting frustrated with the traffic and impatience of the passengers in the car. The further you choose to travel the worse you’ll feel about going, which makes staying home seem like a dream in comparison.

5. Luggage
Leaving home during the holidays typically means lugging around a few suitcases with all of your items. Although luggage is a part of traveling all year long people tend to have a lot more when it comes to the holiday season. Between winter clothing, which takes up more space, and holiday gifts your luggage may triple during this already hectic traveling season. A lot of airlines only allow you to bring a set amount of luggage which could mean you’ll be paying some not so friendly overages each time you fly. When you fly you also run the risk of losing your luggage, which could mean a major loss if your holiday gifts disappear. It also means there could be a good chance that you won’t have enough room for all of your luggage in your car. After all, there’s only so much room in your trunk and you don’t want to leave your passengers cramped on longer trips. If you end up using an over the top carrier you also run the risk of losing some of your prized possessions on the high way.

6. Holiday Business
We all know that many places of business close down during major holidays which never seems to be too big of an issue when we’re comfortable at home. If you do plan on traveling to a different location you may find that the closed stores and restaurants could leave you in a pretty big bind on your holiday. If you aren’t spending the holiday with family and friends then chances are you’ll probably won’t to go out for a nice meal on Christmas. However, many places are actually going to be closed so it might mean you’ll have to waste a little gas to find a restaurant that’s actually open. It also might mean that you’ll pay quite a bit more for a meal you normally wouldn’t consider buying at that price. If you don’t have a car on you then you may find that hailing a taxi, or even calling one in, will take a lot more time and effort. There’s also a good chance you’ll end up paying twice the normal rate, so be careful how far you go.

7. Savings
You might not realize it at the time, but a Christmas trip can actually cost you as much as a short summer vacation. This can really be a downer when summer rolls around and the family needs the break but you can’t afford to pay for a longer vacation. Instead of traveling during the holiday season you could always put back the money you intended to travel with during the holidays and use it for an extended summer vacation that will help your entire family unwind from the busy year. It might even help you save up even more vacation days with your work place so you don’t have to fret about taking time off. If you don’t like to take long holidays then take you traveling money and buy something nice for the home. This will help keep maintenance fees down and could refresh the mood of the home. Of course, you could always use the money for a little rainy day fund that can be used whenever the house needs a little day trip.

8. Crowds
It doesn’t matter if you’re in a big town or small town if you choose to see a holiday event. Typically any type of parade, shopping center, amusement park and even ice skating rinks are going to be completely crowded. This could leave you feeling uncomfortable during the event which might make your plans feel like more of a burden than a fun time. Going anywhere during the holidays pretty much means you’re going to be batting through the crowds to get where you need to be. Thus, staying at home might be one of the best options for your entire family. Crowds can also be dangerous you aren’t careful and might be a terrible idea if you have small children.

9. Crime
When it comes to crime the holiday season sees it fair share. One of the more common problems during this season is burglaries. The Christmas season brings a lot of empty homes as people travel to see those they care about, which means it is a whole lot easier for someone to break into your home without a trace. If you do leave for the holidays you may want to make sure your home isn’t noticeably vacant and you have a security system ready to take action if something does happen. Pick pocketing is another huge holiday crime. You should always make sure your wallet or purse is secure so you don’t have to worry about losing your cash whenever you go out. You might also want to make some arrangement with your neighbors in regards to mail. If you have packages coming from a non-USPS carrier then your items could go missing if someone you trust doesn’t pick them up. You might also want to put a hold on your mail so you don’t have to worry about someone stealing important documents or packages. Of course, simply not traveling during the season could eliminate a lot of these holiday crimes.

10. Illness
Airlines and bus stations are filled with people suffering from cold and flu symptoms, so chances are if you decide to travel during the holiday season you’re more than likely going to get sick. It doesn’t matter if you’ve had the flu already or not as there are so many strands of different illnesses going around that chances are you’ll end up with something. Of course, this probably means you’re going to be sick for the duration of your holiday vacation which will make your time away from home even more miserable. If you’re lucky enough not to catch something on the way to your destination then there’s a pretty big chance you’ll catch it on your way home. Thus, you’ll end up getting sick just in time to go back to work and you won’t have the leave time to take off to make a quick recovery. If you end up staying at home then chances are you’ll be able to enjoy the holiday season and go back to work with a healthy and relax outlook.

Traveling can be a total nightmare during the holiday so it is hard to understand why we subject ourselves to it each and every year. If you’re looking to save money this holiday season and perhaps a little bit of your sanity then you may consider canceling the holiday trip and spending some quality time at home with your immediate family.

We all love looking at the beautiful holiday decorations each year. Sometimes, we even pull out our own and help warm up the neighborhood with holiday cheer. Unfortunately, decorating can be expensive in a lot of different ways. There is such a wide selection of decorations that it is often overwhelming when choosing what suits the household. This can cause a lot of financial stress as we might need to over indulge or we may even choose something that might cost a lot of money to light up throughout the season. Of course, like many decorating projects there are numerous ways to avoid huge costs while still keeping up with your seasonal traditions. With these ten tips you’ll be the star of the neighborhood with your amazing holiday display.

1. Switch to LED
If you’re looking for new lights for your home this season then you might want to avoid the classic string up lights and move right on over to the LED section. You might wonder how exactly these lights will save you money as the price tag is usually quite a bit higher than the average light set, but you’ll notice a difference as soon as you get your electricity bill. Each strand of LED lights can actually save you up to $3.60 on your monthly bill. This can really rack up the savings, especially if you’re a fan of lighting up the neighborhood each holiday season. LED lights actually tend to last a bit longer than the typical light too. Thus, you’ll get a lot more use out of them and by the second or third holiday they will have already paid for themselves by reducing your electric bill. You may even find that the LED lights tend to go a bit further when it comes to lighting up your home for the holidays.

2. Timer
One of the major problems with holiday lights is people tend to leave them on for too long. The bill rises more and more by the hour which can cause your monthly bill to skyrocket before the holidays are over. If you tend to find yourself falling asleep before you turn off your lights or just forget they’re on then you may want to invest in a time. This allows you to set a time for the lights to come on as well as a time for them to go off. Thus, if you’re looking to save a lot of money you can run the lights for only a couple hours without ever having to touch the power button. This is also perfect for anyone who is going away for the holidays. The timer will give the home the illusion of being occupied which may help keep burglars away from your area.

3. Battery Power
There are a lot of battery operated decorations on the market today, which is a huge benefit when it comes to your power bill. From wreaths to light up or noise making decorations you can really save big when you buy this battery operated devices. When you have battery operated items you tend not to have to run a whole lot of power to your decorations. It also means you have to worry less about leaving items on as the batteries tend to last through the season. Of course, if you’re worried about having to keep replacing batteries or you just want to save as much money as possible then you may want to switch to rechargables. This will give you a boost of batteries in the home, especially for all of the kid’s gifts that will need them, so you won’t have to worry about using the electric for everything holiday oriented.

4. String Your Own Tree
If you tend to go for the plastic tree during the holidays then you may want to go for one that doesn’t come with lights already on it. Sure, stringing up a Christmas Tree every year can be a total hassle, especially when you have to spend hours untangling the lights and checking to see if they still work. With all of your work you’ll get a great financial reward though. Typically purchasing a tree can save you up to $200 on the final cost of an artificial tree. It also gives you the opportunity to pick out which lights are best for your household. So, instead of having a tree that drains an extraordinary amount of electricity you can buy LED lights and other energy efficient decorations for your holiday tree. With the proper selection of lights and a light up schedule you’ll notice a huge difference in your holiday season electric bill.

5. Trade Ins
Most people have a pretty good collection of old holiday lights lying around in storage. Whether you’re saving them to harvest lights for other strands or you just haven’t upgraded to LED then you may want to grab them all and take them to your nearest store. There are so many different stores that are now excepting these lights as a trade in program. Home Depot is one example of a store that will take in all of your old lights and give you a pretty good discount when you pay LED lights. This is a great way for stores to help out with the environment while getting good business on new lights each year. Of course, you might want to call in and ask before you head to the store with all of your lights as not all stores are participating in this trade in program. You may be surprised by how many stores are actually willing to help you recycle your old lights while also giving you a little treat for upgrading.

6. Less is More
One of the biggest issues with holiday decorations is people overdoing it. There are so many choices now that people tend to buy too much and end up with a very cluttered yard. This is not only ascetically displeasing, but it also horrible on your energy bill. So, stop shopping for new items and be a bit more selective. Most yards look good with one or two decorations, or a simple theme, so don’t try to create an entourage of holiday figures but create a nice display that people can enjoy as they drive by. This is one of the best ways to win or even place in a lighting contest which could earn you more cash towards your holiday budget. A simple design means less of a bill for you though, which can really make the holiday season a lot easier.

7. Display Later
There’s no law saying that you have to have your holiday décor out the moment Thanksgiving is over. Instead, let the month of December set in a little while before you get ready for the next big event. The less you have your holiday decorations out the less you will end up paying for the electricity they will use throughout the season. Try to aim your decoration task for the middle of the month, which will give everyone plenty of time to enjoy your display without cramping up your financial budget. When the holiday is finished then try to get the decorations up before the New Year so you can enjoy spending less and less each holiday season. Doing this each year will also help keep your outdoor decorations in better shape so you can use them longer. You may even find that you enjoy the holiday a lot more since you won’t end up celebrating it for the entire month.

8. Small Pieces
Choosing decorations can be one of the key points to saving the most money on your decorating. You should always look for pieces that are a bit smaller as they tend to be cheaper to light up and are easier to store. Small pieces add a classic touch to your lawn while not taking away from the beauty of the lights. If you aren’t too sure about buying smaller decorations then you may want to look at how much it cost to power up one of the huge inflatable decorations for just one hour. You may find a renewed love in the simple look of a light up tree or reindeer. Of course, in this day and age your selection isn’t exactly limited even if you are only buying smaller pieces. With any luck you’ll find something that is small and at a fantastic price so you save money on all levels.

9. Coupons/Rebates
There’s nothing like a good coupon deal to make you feel great about spending money. As the holidays grow closer and closer you’ll find there are coupons that will help you take off quite a bit from your initial purchase. The longer you wait to look for your decorations the easier it will be to find some pretty exciting deals on your holiday purchases. If you’re looking at greener purchases, such as LED lights then you may even be lucky enough to find a great rebate on the purchase. A lot of cities want to push residents to go for a more green friendly decorating scheme as it saves the city money and also help reduce the carbon footprint we leave on the Earth. Thus, so many companies will actually give you money back just for buy LED lights. You may even find these rebates on lawn ornaments and other cool holiday decorations. So, make sure you do a little investigating before you choose just what you want to decorate with.

10. Be Patient
Tis the season to exercise your skills in patience. Although it may be tough to keep your cool in the holiday lines patience is a rewarding part of the holiday season. So, instead of going on a spending spree for your décor you may want to refrain from doing any major shopping until the holiday is over. Typically the day after Christmas you’ll find a whole lot of amazing decorations and lights on sale at prices that will make you wonder why you ever shopped before Christmas in the first place. From expensive decorations to huge displays you might be lucky enough to get up to a 75% discount on some of the items you had your eye on during the holidays. Sure, you might not get to use the items this year, but they’ll look absolutely fantastic in your front yard come next season. You may even be able to find some energy efficient replacements for some of your older decorations or lights too, which will help you get rid of some of your holiday money pits that you couldn’t part with before!

It is often hard to say no to decorating when the holidays roll around. With all of the neighbors beautiful décor as well as the holiday mood in the air it could prove to be impossible to keep from decorating even when the budget doesn’t exactly allow it. With these ten tips you’ll not only be able to keep your lights on but will help improve the way you shop for your household’s holiday look. So, get ready to watch your neighbors marvel over you display, enter competitions and simply enjoy having your home as part of the holiday tradition without having to stress about your bills. After all, this fun only comes around once in a year, so you might as well enjoy it!

One of the biggest parts of the Christmas tradition is picking out a tree to suit the family and decorating it together. There are so many different trees and decorations to choose from that you might end up feeling overwhelmed when you go to choose yours. This can be a major problem when it comes to budgeting for your tree and holiday decorations. There are many ways that you can actually save a whole lot of money on your Christmas Tree while still getting the items you want to make it suit your family’s needs and personality. With a few simple tips to keep you on task you’ll find you have the ability to make the best financial decisions when it comes to your tree without having to lose out on the quality or design that you’ve always wanted.

1. Go Plastic
It might not be the ideal holiday tree, but some of the artificial tress you find in stores might actually make you believe you have a real tree. Artificial trees are one of the easiest ways to cut back on spending during the holiday season. Although you might end up spending up to $100 on one of these tress you will still be able to save money as the tree will stick with your family for years to come. There are numerous artificial trees to choose from, but one of the best ways to get your money’s worth out of a tree is to avoid making trendy decisions on the tree. You should always choose a tree that you’re going to use year after year, rather than one that will just be thrown out next season. Typically it is safer to go with the classic tree look rather than trees that have the illusion of snow or are brightly colored. When you choose a tree you might also want to pick one that already has lights on it, which cut down on lighting cost. If you’re still longing for the real tree smell then pick up some pine scented sticks and your home will be ready for the season.

2. Know Your Trees
If you do actually decide to buy a real tree this year then you may want to do a little research before you go out and pick one. There are a number of different holiday trees on the market, so knowing what you’re getting will help you get the most out of your money and your tree. When you visit the tree market make sure you already have a budget firmly set so you’ll know how much you can spend. It might also be wise to only bring cash so you can’t go over the initial cost. This is largely due to sales people talking many customers into buying higher priced trees. By knowing the different names for the trees you’ll be able to understand the trees worth based on your knowledge rather than how the tree looks. You might also want to take into consideration some of your household’s needs when shopping. For instance, if you’re buying a tree early then you may not want to buy trees that get dried out fast. Some trees actually have extra strong branches which is perfect for those large ornaments. While other trees have sharper needles which could help keep the household’s pets from climbing the tree!

3. Cut Your Own
For many families part of the holiday magic is to actually go out and cut down your own tree. This might not just be a great bonding experience, but could also help your family save a whole lot of money on the holiday tree. If you do plan on going for a real tree this year then this should be one of the options. Typically a permit to cut down a Christmas Tree usually runs around $10. So, if you have your own tools and form of transportation for the tree then you’re looking to get a tree at a very low price. You should always make sure to check the rules about cutting down trees before you go to do so as they are different for every given area. You may end up paying more in some areas if you choose a larger tree. Of course, you should also always keep in mind the measurements of your home as you won’t want to cut down a tree that is too large.

4. Be Patient
Sure, after Thanksgiving when the holiday buzz is in the air, it might be a bit too tempting to go out and buy a tree just so you can have your home ready for the holiday. This can be a horrible thing if you’re planning on buying a real tree though. You should always until, at least, the middle of December before purchasing a tree because real trees begin to lose moisture after they are cut down. This means your tree’s needle are going to dry up, fall out and end up in someone’s foot even if you vacuum every single day. There are ways to keep a tree alive longer, but you won’t be able to do it for a full month so try to refrain from tree shopping until the date is a little bit closer. Another bad aspect about older trees is the branches become very brittle which could cause them to break under the pressure of some ornaments. This won’t just make the tree look bad, but it will also cause your ornaments to fall down and break. So, do yourself a favor and don’t waste money on a tree you’ll have to replace before the holiday because it might end up costing you a lot more than you bargained.

5. Homemade Ornaments
When it comes to ornaments it might be hard to refrain from spending a bundle. There are so many beautiful items on the market that we tend to want to follow trends and buy new things each year. Buying one or two new things tend not to hurt the budget too much, but there are many ways to actually cut down on ornament cost almost complety. Homemade ornaments are a great way to bring the family together for the season. You can easily string together homemade popcorn for a beautiful garland that you’d never be able to buy in a store. Another great way to make the tree personal is to add photos into the tree. If you don’t want to use prints from a photographer then print the photo out, cover it in mod podge for durability and add a ribbon to help keep it on the tree. You might also want to buy some empty ornaments, which are usually very cheap, and add pictures to those for a yearly ornament everyone will love. Another way to make it person is to find some of the kid’s old toys. As long as they are small they should make a great decoration that will allow your children to look back on their childhood.

6. Big Items
If you tend to fill your tree up with smaller items then you might notice you have to keep buying to make sure there are no sparce areas. Of course, a lot of the time this could also mean that your tree is going to look cluttered because of the items you put on it. One of the easiest ways to remedy this situation is to use larger items to decorate. Sure, these items can be more expensive at times, but a lot of them can easily be made by hand. For instance, a large ribbon or a cute banner is simple to make and will take up a lot of room on the tree without it seeming cluttered and unorganized. This can help you cut down on themed trees as well which is one of the best choices you can make financially.

7. Space Out Purchases
It might be hard to do, but you should avoid buying ornaments in bulk as much as possible. A good tree is easy to add onto each year so you don’t have spend hundreds of dollars on ornaments that you’ll probably be tired of before the year is over. Instead try picking out an ornament to represent the year that can be reused holiday after holiday. This will allow you to spend no more than $20 a year on ornaments and if you do end up buying something you can’t stand next season you won’t be out a whole lot of money. You might even find that you love looking back at the ornaments you chose throughout the years when you put up your tree each year.

8. Alternatives
Not everyone has enough space for a Christmas Tree. Sure, cramming the smallest tree in the lot into your living area might be your way of remedying the problem, but you might find there are a few alternatives that don’t leaving you feeling as cramped and save you some money. Anyone who lives in an apartment, especially on the higher floors may want to try drawing their own tree. To to get some butcher paper and marker and draw out the tree of your dreams. This will make a great bonding experience for your family and you can hold on to the trees throughout the year to see how they change as the family grows. You might also want to consider using a plant as a tree. There are many plants that actually look seasonal and will help bring the holiday environment without stealing yoru space. You might even want to grab a few ornaments for your plant, but make sure to go easy as you may end up with a Charlie Brown Christmas Tree if you aren’t careful.

9. Inspect Well
One of the biggest ways to save money on a holiday tree is to do a simple inspection. A lot of trees on the market might end up looking pretty rough before you actually get it to your home. Make sure you shake the tree a bit to check out the needles and walk around it to make sure there aren’t huge bare spots. If you do notice these things and there’s some time before Christmas then you may want to move on to another tree. Of course, the closer to Christmas it gets the more you’ll be able to haggle the price down if you notice these things. Most people don’t want to end up with a surplus of trees before the season is over so they may be willing to cut the price down substantially if they notice anything major is wrong with the tree. With a few days until Christmas your new tree should last long enough for the festivities.

10. After Holiday Sales
Of course, many people just can’t resist the temptations of buying a whole new set of ornaments. For this situation it might be best just to wait until the holiday are over. Generally as soon as Boxing Day is upon us all of these items will go in the clearance bin and you’ll reap some pretty amazing savings. It might also help you feel confident about next years decorating as you’ll have a bran new look to start the season off with. This can also take a huge burden off the holiday budget as next year you’ll have a new set so you won’t have to spend the budget on ornaments until the season is over and you’ve already bought all of your presents!

Christmas Trees provide a magical experience for the family, so don’t let the price tag make the fun go away. With these simple tricks you’ll be on your way to an award winning tree in no time at all. You might even find that this year’s holiday tree seems to have brought you and your loved ones closer together as you created decorations for its beauty.

One of the toughest parts about the holidays is having friends and family around the world. With everyone so far apart it is often a struggle to get holiday gifts to each person you buy for. With shipping cost at a high there can be a major budgeting problem is you aren’t careful about how you buy things. There are, of course, many ways that you can get your holiday gifts shipped around the world without a major fuss though. With a few simple tips you won’t have to hold onto holiday gifts throughout the year because you can’t get them to loved ones. You may even find that you won’t have to worry about your gifts making it on time thanks to your shipping know how.

1. Give Yourself Time
One of the biggest problems most people have to face when shipping items is getting them there on time. When it comes to getting your parcels shipped out it doesn’t pay to be a procrastinator. One of the best ways to get your items to their destination on time and cheaply is to ship the item a few weeks before the holiday season. You should always calculate the distance the item will be going as well. For instance, if you’re sending something abroad you might want to ship it out in November so you don’t have to worry about paying rush fees and the item won’t get held up with the rest of the holiday rush. Other in state items are usually okay to be shipped a couple weeks ahead of time, but you might want to work with the type of package you have. For instance, if you’re sending a book you may want to ship it through media mail which is one of the cheapest options, but it does take longer to get there.

2. Consider a Combo Deal
If you aren’t the biggest packer and want to save some money on packing supplies then you may want to consider a pack and ship combo deal. A lot of companies are offering this type of deal now, so you make sure to look around for the best prices. When you’re ready to send off your gifts all you have to do is take them up to the company and they will do all of the work for you. They place the items in a special box and make sure to pad the item based on what the item is so you know your gifts will make it to the recipient in great shape. By doing this you actually cut down on the amount of supplies you have to buy for the holiday season. It also helps you get your items together and sent off in one easy to follow step and generally at a discounted price.

3. Research
One of the best things about the internet is it gives you the chance to price everything before you actually buy it. This makes the internet a huge resource when you’re shipping items this holiday season. Before you get ready to send your items off make sure you check out the pricing of all the companies around you. During the holidays shipping can fluctuate so you may be surprised as to who can offer you the best deal. You might also make sure to check out who has the best deals on shipping different items. You may end up using different companies, but your items will be shipped out at the lowest price possible. Researching will also allow you to know about any hidden fees that you might be able to waive so you won’t have to spend as much as you think!

4. Packaging
When it comes shipping it is no surprise that the packaging items can actually leave you hurting the most financially. A lot of companies will mark up the prices of premade boxes and containers so try to look around before you purchase. If you can use as many recycled items as possible. For instance, if someone sends you a package try to carefully open it so you can easily tape it back up and re-purpose it for your own shipping needs. You can also use boxes that come with items like appliances, games and other common household purchases. When it comes to shipping thinking out of the box can be one of the best ways to avoid spending money on packaging which will probably take three quarters of the price off of your shipping purchase. If you do need to buy supplies then try to grab them in bulk so you don’t have to worry about spending a fortune every time you need to ship something out. These bulk items might even disappear quickly if you do a lot of shipping during the holidays.

5. Flat Rate
Some shipping companies have started creating flat rate boxes to encourage people to ship with them. These amazing boxes can do you a whole lot of good if you plan on shipping items that run on the heavier spectrum this season. The rule with the flat rate boxes is if the item fits into the box then it will ship at one flat rate so you don’t have to worry about any unforeseen cost. Most companies offer a wide variety of boxes so make sure to try these out before you brave shipping heavier items without this amazing deal. Of course, if you are sending something incredibly light you may want to skip out on the flat rate boxes, but most average sized items will cost around the same price as the flat rate box when shipped without it. Most companies also offer the boxes for free, so it even helps you avoid some of the packaging fees!

6. Shop Online
When it comes to holidays hopping it might be a better deal just to shop online. If you can find an entire family’s worth of items on one site then you’ll be doing really great, but even shopping for one person might end up cheaper on the shipping spectrum. Most online stores don’t charge a whole lot for shipping cost, some even take a loss, and when you buy more than one item you tend to get a better deal on shipping. Of course, if you do plan on shopping at a certain website then you might want to look around for a free shipping coupon either on their website or on an online coupon website. This could totally cut the cost of your shipping which will allow you to spend just a little bit more on your loved ones.

7. Buy Insurance
A lot of people tend to skip out on some of the extra shipping cost when they can. This tends to be fine if you aren’t sending anything that cost a whole lot of money. However, if you do have some pricier items you need to send, or a bulk package that adds up to a high cost, then insurance might be a wise choice. Typically, it only cost a dollar or two extra to buy some insurance for your package which can actually end up saving you hundreds of dollars if your item gets lost or stole in the mail. It will also help reimburse you for items that get broken on the way to the destination which tends to happen a lot more during the holiday season. You may even find that you can relax more knowing your items are still covered if they never make it to the recipients.

8. Ship from Home
During the holiday season the lines at packaging facilities tend to lead straight out of the door. This could lead a lot of people to avoid shipping their items until the fees add up and the delivery date pushes well past the holidays. One amazing thing about packaging from home is you can easily get everything you need to mail shipped from your home. Simply package the item, weigh it at home and print out the shipping label. Your packaging company will pick it up at a time that is convenient for you so you don’t have to worry about going out at all. This is great especially when the weather tends to keep you indoors. Of course, you might not end up getting a better deal, but you will save on gasoline which is always a bonus when the holiday season is concerned.

9. Signature Request
Theft tends to be at a higher rate during the holiday season. This can be a major issue if your recipients probably won’t be home during the working hours. Many packaging companies will leave the item outside of the door and mark it as delivered which take the package out of their system. Once it is left it is wide open to be stolen from anyone simply walking through the neighborhood. Instead of having to fight with the packaging company about these items you may just want to request a signature. Some companies offer this service for free while others charge around $1 for it. With the signature request the company won’t be allowed to leave the package unless someone from the home, or a neighbor signs for it. This will allow you to know who has signed for it so the theft is entirely avoidable and your loved ones will get to enjoy your thoughtful gift.

10. Rewards Program
If you’re really look to save big during the holiday season then you might want to look into getting into a rewards program. There are numerous stores around that will offer anyone willing to pay a small fee a special account that often waives shipping, or takes a percentage off of it. One prime example of this service is Amazon Prime. This account actually offers you free advanced shipping on some items so you won’t have to worry about the shipping cost adding up for you. It also allows you to enjoy a discounted price on your items so you get even more money off for your shopping. You might also want to look into ebates programs that will give you money back for shopping, including expensive shipping cost. With a few reward programs on your side you’ll be able to get over your holiday shipping dilemma in no time.

Shipping can be one of the biggest burdens during the holiday season. From paying extra to get a gift to someone you love to standing in long miserable lines, the shipping aspect of the holiday is frustrating. With these simple tips you’ll be able to avoid a lot of the frustration while keeping your budget happy and enjoying the happiness of those you ship too! So, put your holiday smile back on and have some fun instead of dealing with the holiday shipping crisis!

You might still be in shock at the fact that Hanukkah is early this year, but don’t despair! There is still plenty of time to get everything you need without rushing careless through the stores. A lot of people tend to go overboard on the entire Hanukkah experience even though it isn’t one of the larger Jewish holidays. With sales papers everywhere and the huge Black Friday sale to tempt you, you may want to over spend a little bit on this year’s Hanukkah celebration. It is important to step back and remember the holiday for what it is though instead of letting the commercial value of the holiday step in the way. There are a lot of ways to make your Hanukkah celebration great that don’t actually involve you spending a lot of money. You may even find that the less you spend the better you feel about the entire celebration.

1. Make Your Gifts
A lot of people tend to check out pricey items when they want to give their family member a gift. Hanukkah isn’t really about the size or material value of the gift, as a matter of fact gifts are supposed to be small and inexpensive. One way to keep from buy expensive items is to use your natural creativity to make a gift that comes straight from the heart. There are numerous craft ideas that won’t cost you much of anything if you feel you have the skills to create them. For instance, you could always write a loved one a personal poem or create a small painting that shows how you feel about the person. You can also break out your knitting, sewing or scrapbooking skills to create something small for each family member. Of course, if you do love to bake then you might want to pull out your favorite ingredients and mix up a batch of cookies or a cake that would please any recipient.

2. Out of the Box
Sometimes when it comes to keeping to the buget you might have to do a little thinking out of the box, especially when it comes to choose eight nights worth of gifts. There are a few gift ideas out there that tend not to make it to anyone’s actual wish list. For instance, you might have a family member who loves fishing, golfing fashion or other hobbies that have countless magazines dedicated to them. If this is the case then you may want to opt for a magazine subscription which tends to cost less that most gifts and will bring joy throughout the year. The same can be said for teens as there are countless magazines dedicated to teens and their needs and interests. If you want to make an impact on the recipient then you might want to choose a heart warming gift, such as a frame with one of their favorite photographs. There are also a wide variety of school or work items that make perfect gifts even if the recipient doesn’t realize it right away.

3. Keep it Simple
A lot of people tend to over think the holiday when it comes to entertainment. There are so many great traditional things you can do that won’t cost you more than $5 and in most cases are totally free. One of the biggest parts of the holiday is sharing stories about the reason for celebrating as well as family stories that unite everyone. You should also bring out the music and sing along as much as possible. Kids will love playing the dreidel game too, which can take up a lot of the entertainment time. If people start to get bored then you might want to break out some games that you already own. Kids will also love doing arts and crafts and you might even be able to direct a skit with the older children which will entertain the adults. Of course, you can’t forget the lighting of the candles which always brings people together in delight.

4. Arts and Crafts
No matter what holiday you’re celebrating, kids love doing arts and crafts. This Hanakkuah don’t go overboard when you choose which items you need for your craft table. You should always make an inventory of what you already have in the home that could work as a craft supply. Typically people find paper products, tape, glue, pens, pencils, crayons, markers, and yarn which makes up the majority of your crafting needs. If you do need some supplies then try to find the cheapest option and buy in bulk if you can. This will allow you to keep the supplies for another project or for next year’s craft table. A lot of stores have premade kits waiting to be used which often tempt many people. However, if you’re planning on saving money then you should avoid these items. For a lot of fun without worrying about the work you could always look online for free holiday print outs that the kids will have a blast coloring. You might even take your crafting to gifts as you can make some inexpensive wrapping paper with butcher paper and markers!

5. Plan Ahead
A lot of us find ourselves in a bind when the holidays roll around because we’ve put off shopping the last minute. This can be a really expensive mistake as it typically means rushing to the store and grabbing any item we think will work despite the price. One way to combat this is to actually shop throughout the year. You typically aren’t going to be looking for expensive gifts when it comes to Hanukkah, but you if you see something you think would be perfect for someone then go ahead and purchase it and put it away for the holiday. This will cut down on how much you need to spend when it does become crunch time. You should also do the same when you see decorative items or craft projects that might be fun for the holiday. This will allow you to get most of your items when they’re on clearance directly after the holiday!

6. Dreidel
A dreidel can be a big part of your family’s fun during Hanukkah. One way to prevent having to spend money on one is to hold onto a dreidel that acts as a family heirloom. A lot of people have had one specific dreidel in the family for generations which makes it an important piece to the household. Of course, your children may want their own or a dreidel that can pass to their children which leaves you with the predicament of buying a special one that will last for years. A great way to give children one with so much meaning is to actually carve it yourself, or work with the child as they learn the basics of carving. Of course, this only really works with older children. For younger children you may want to work out origami dreidels. They won’t last long but they will be fun for the holiday and will leave children feeling special.

7. Menorah
The menorah is a key piece when it comes to Hanukkah. This beautiful piece helps you tell the story of the holiday while celebrating its beauty. If you’re looking for a new menorah you might be in for spending some money you don’t need for the holiday. Try to stick with one that runs in the family. If for some reason you need a new one then you might try making your own, or looking in a thrift store for a cheaper option. There are a few modernized ways to represent the menorah without actually having one though. For instance, many people have started buying paper lanterns and numbering them. For each night of Hanukkah they light the lantern and enjoy the modern décor while also getting more table space for food and games. You could also have the children make their own so they can enjoy in the fun without danger of being burned. Simply find eight wooden spools, pencils and eraser ends and your child is ready to get to work. If you really want to have fun and save money then you might consider making your own candle sticks.

8. Decorations
You can really go all out for very little money when it comes to decorating for Hanukkah. For starters you may want to find the little chocolate coin candies. These are perfect to lay around the house and make incredible treats for the kids. You might also look for some Christmas garland to put around the mantle piece and tables and chairs. It will be cheap at most stores and comes in blue and white shades for the holiday. One of the best ways to decorate is to have kids color print outs of Menorahs, Dreidels, the Star of David and other symbols of the holiday. You can post these up all over the house for a cute way to keep it festive. One of the best center pieces for dining tables is painted twigs that are glued together as art which will cost you very little money at all. If you do want to buy professional decorations then you might want to wait until after the holiday and buy the items on clearance for next years décor.

9. Food
Like all holidays most people consider the food to be one of the highlights of the get togethers. One of the cheapest ways to keep to your budget is to actually follow tradition. Try to make sure you have all the ingredients for latkes which are simple and cheap to make and are always a hit amongst guests. Latkes are also a great filler during parties so you won’t have to worry about people being hungry when they leave the party. You might also want to consider making items such as matzo balls which are another great filling dish for your guest. Seasonal foods are also a great way to keep company happy without having to go overboard on the spending. It is important to remember that you will eight days of delicious foods to make so don’t exhaust yourself or your resources. You might also guest to bring their favorite dish too, which will make the holiday more of a shared experience.

10. Combine Efforts
Although it might be a bit of a shock that Hanukkah is so soon this year, it is an even bigger shock that the first night of Hanukkah will actually fall on Thanksgiving. If you tend to celebrate both holidays then now is the time to combine efforts to save you some money! Hanukkah rarely ever falls on a Thanksgiving so this is your year to take advantage of the savings. In fact, the last time people celebrated both occasions Abraham Lincoln was still in office and the next time it will occur will be in the year 2070. This gives you the opportunity to choose foods for Thanksgiving that could be recreated into new meals for the rest of Hanukkah. With these huge savings you’ll be able to relax a bit when it comes to finances!

With Hanukkah only a week away it might be time to make some plans to get your holiday rolling. These tips will help you relax as you make decisions that will affect your family budget and the way you celebrate this fun holiday. It only takes a few simple steps to turn around the way you spend on holidays so don’t be afraid to try a new way of working your holiday budget. You might even find this holiday will be your most relaxed yet.

Every year it seems as if Thanksgiving kicks off the entire holiday season of spending madness. From spending a fortune on the family feast to maxing out the credit cards on holiday shopping, Thanksgiving sparks a period of time that could leave you in a financial crisis. So, why not take a step in the right direction and spend as little on Thanksgiving as you possibly can. With a few simple snips and cuts from the shopping list you’ll be able to pull off an incredibly tasty feast that will leave you proud of your financial accomplishment. With Thanksgiving leaving you in a great place with your budget you’ll be ready to take on the rest of the year like a financial guru. So, grab a pen and paper and next these easy to follow steps with you to the grocery store. You’ll be proud of the feast you create and the amount of fun and delight you make with your Thanksgiving Day feast.

1. Turkey
In most households the turkey tends to be the star of the dinner table. Unfortunately, the star of your dinner might actually be the biggest burden on your shoulders when it comes to the holiday budget. Although turkeys tend to be a bit expensive they are also a huge part of advertising for many local and chain grocery stores. Before you make any big decisions regarding where to shop for your turkey you should do a little bit of research about each stores deals. The majority of stores will offer a pretty good discount on a turkey, so make sure you go for the bird that is going to give you more turkey for less money. You might also want to see if any of the stores have special deals for their turkeys. Many stores will actually give away a free dish when you purchase a turkey. Even if it is a can of cranberry sauce or a side of mashed potatoes this can really help you save on your shopping list. A few stores will even give away a free turkey when you purchase certain items that usually pertain to the typical holiday meal.

2. The RSVP Rule
One of the best ways to cut down on the amount of food you buy and cook is to have everyone RSVP to the meal. It might be hard to get everyone to confirm due to work schedules and travel plans, but if you can get people to give you a guess if they’re coming or not then you’ll be in a lot better shape then assuming everyone you invited will be coming. Generally people who host a Thanksgiving dinner tend to buy way too much food because they expect the entire guest list to show up a gorge themselves on food. Realistically many people won’t be able to make and some of the people who do may have already had a meal at someone else’s home. So, take down a number and stick with it so you won’t have to go do any over shopping or end up with food that just goes to waste. Of course, you may want to calculate one or two surprise guest into the occasion or buy a little extra for dishes that you’re trying for the first time in case there’s an accident in the kitchen.

3. Get an App
If you don’t want to waste time and gasoline going from store to store then you may want to pull out your trusty smartphone. Your phone will give you a wide selection of apps that work with local grocery stores to help you find the best deal out there. Sure, it might seem a bit hardcore to download an app for one specific day, but you may find yourself using these apps throughout the year. Some of the grocery apps will actually allow you to upload an entire shopping list so you can make your trip out a whole lot easier and less forgetful. The app will take your list and look up stores in your area. This will give you a comparison of prices that would take you hours to find if you were looking through sales ads.

4. Make it From Scratch
Making a Thanksgiving Day feast can be really overwhelming when you look at all of the dishes you have too cook. A lot of people might think it is a whole lot easier to cut some corners and buy pre-made dishes. Although this might actually cut down on the amount of time you spend in the kitchen it will also hike up your grocery bill and lower the quality of your food. One of the best ways to spice up your time in the kitchen is to look for new recipes you’d like to try. This will give you a challenge that will make you want to work from scratch. You might even be able to find a few substitutes for more expensive ingredients which will help you cut down the cost on anything you make from scratch. Pre-made foods are automatically going to be a lot more expensive and they come in smaller packages so you won’t have enough to feed your whole family.

5. Beverages
Everyone loves a little spirit with their holiday meal, but buying alcohol might not be the best way to save money for your meal. If you want to have wine for the holidays then you may want to stick with boxed wine. Typically wine bought in boxes is inexpensive and it comes with a whole lot more than you’d get from a bottle. Thus, you’ll have more money to spend on a variety of wines that will last guest throughout the holiday. Kids can be tough to keep satisfied during the meal though. Most kids want to indulge in soda beverages which can be expensive. Try mixing up a batch or fruit punch or buying different flavors of Cool Aid for a cheaper way to keep the kids happy. If it ends up being pretty chilly then try making a big batch of hot chocolate. This will please kids and adults alike and will create a great warm up for anyone who is outside playing football. Of course, if you want to keep everyone’s thirst quenched for mere cents then you might want to brew up a big batch of tea.

6. Plan to Season
One of the easiest ways to cut down on your holiday budget is to look for seasonal produce to help make your sides spectacular. This is actually a great way to get in touch with the first Thanksgiving and will give your home a bigger sense of the meaning of the holiday. Don’t think you’re limited too much by choosing seasonal dishes though. When it comes to vegetables you will be able to create a whole lot of delicious meals from spinach, beets, broccoli, parsnips and much more. You will even be able to make some of the classic staples like mashed potatoes and gravy as well as sweet potato casserole. You may even be able to get your hands on some delicious fruits without losing a fortune. So prepare to make some delicious pumpkin pie or fruit salads to add to the dessert table.

7. Coupons
A week or two before Thanksgiving usually marks the beginning of a lot of coupon releases. Most stores make a ton of money off of the holiday and coupons help them bring in more customers. As soon as you can get a hold of the local ads you should start looking through coupons to find the deals you need to make your meal. This is one of the best ways to plan out your full course meal though. Find the best deals on products and use those items to create a feast that will supply everyone with something they love to eat. Many ads will even provide you with a series of double coupons that can really take care of the burden of your holiday bill. You should always look online for exclusive coupons as well because many stores will send their members deals that don’t make it to the ads. If you aren’t a member then it typically only takes a couple of minutes to sign up for free.

8. Potluck
Sometimes thinking about cooking all of that food in such a short amount of time can be a bit overwhelming. It can also be a huge dent on your family budget. If you’re feeling uneasy about cooking your holiday meal then you might want to transform your Thanksgiving from a dinner to a potluck. This will encourage guest to bring a meal of their own so you can sit back and enjoy the holiday a little more than usual. Generally people are pretty diverse about what they choose to bring to a meal, but if you’re worried about having a table filled with mashed potatoes then you might have people call and let you know what they’ll be bringing. With most of the sides and desserts for the meal taken care of you can concentrate on the main course without any distractions. It will also mean you won’t have to worry about spending as much on groceries so you can splurge a little on your main course purchase.

9. No Paper/Plastic
When it comes to feeding a lot of people you might be tempted to go with paper and plastic items to help make the clean up a lot easier. Although this might make life after the party seem a whole lot more convenient it won’t do you any favors when it comes to your holiday budget. Most of the time paper plates are strong enough to handle meals as large as Thanksgiving dinner. If you plan on having anything that is even slightly runny, like gravy, then you may find you’ll be cleaning up a lot more messes then you would have imagined. Plastic forks, spoons and knives can become pretty pricey too, especially if you need them for a lot of people. Paper napkins will end up over running the home too, as most people will need several for the meal and cleaning up messes. Before you know your home is going to have garbage bags everywhere from all of the waste products. The cheapest and most economically safe way to run the meal is to use actual dishes and just endure the clean up afterward.

10. Decorations
Thanksgiving is one of the easiest holidays to decorate for because everything is based around the changing of the seasons and the autumn harvest. Bring the kids into the fun by having them go out and find leaves to place around the home. You could also have them create little turkey using their handprint as the body. Pilgrim hats made out of simple paper is usually a holiday hit with the kids too! If you’re looking for the perfect center piece then find a cornucopia and fill it with fruit. Many people will use the fruit as a dessert so you won’t have to worry about it going to waste. You can also tape butcher paper to the table in place of a table cloth. For even more fun have people write what they’re thankful for or let the kids doodle on it. The options are endless when it comes to Thanksgiving decor and most of the crafts will cost you nothing.

Thanksgiving dinner can be your way to start this holiday season off right. With a few simple tricks you can be well on your way to cutting the budget in half and enjoying the big day with the people you care about most. So tune into the parade or catch the holiday football game and remember to enjoy yourself. After all, with the money you saved on dinner you won’t have to worry about finances until Black Friday!

At some point everyone has suffered from some form of acne. Whether you get the sparse pimple or blackhead every once in awhile or you get full on break out often, then you have probably looked for some sort of solution to make the blemishes go away. There are hundreds of different remedies available to you today, but many of them come at a price that isn’t always affordable. It seems the more you want to get rid of the skin problem, the more you have to spend to try out products that don’t work half of the time. Fortunately, there are a few ways for you to get rid of your acne without having to worry about the ridiculous fees that many medications cost. With a few simple changes in your shopping experience you may find that clear skin comes at a much cheaper price.

1. Use Generics
For many sufferers of acne there are certain prescriptions that are said to be top of the line. This causes people to go out and buy the name brand thinking that they can’t get the product for any cheaper. Luckily, there is a generic product for just about everything that is already on the market. Typically these items can be found right next to the name brand product in stores and they often have similar packaging in regards to coloring and fonts. If you don’t think there is a generic then make sure to ask the pharmacist, they should be able to point you in the right direction or give you a product that is similar. If you’re getting a prescription from your doctor then make sure to ask if it can be written for a generic brand. A lot of doctors do this already, but there is never any harm in double checking. It might not seem like a generic brand will save you much in the short term, but as your skin care adds up through the year you’ll be glad you opted for the generic rather than spending a whole lot more on the name brand which is exactly the same.

2. Directions
Part of a healthy skin care regiment is paying attention to the directions on each of your products. It doesn’t matter if you have purchased the product over the counter or is a dermatologist prescribes it to you, you have to follow the directions exactly for the product to work properly. A lot of people will try out a product for a week or two and expect it to work miracles, but the truth is you have to give things a bit more time to see if they will work. If you don’t use the product enough or you use the product too much then you may find that your skin situation doesn’t change at all or it might take a change for the worse. So, before you start a new treatment make sure you go through and read all of the instructions before you begin. This will help you know exactly what needs to be done for your skin to change and will give you a reason to know if the product is or isn’t working after a period of time. It is a waste of money to start a product when you’re not sure about the treatment needs. Usually people end up tossing out products they’ve barely tried because they failed to use them properly. So, save a little money by getting your products a change to work.

3. Samples
If you tend to have to experiment with different medications for your acne then you might want to consider looking for samples of various products. A lot of companies will actually offer you a free sample if you provide the shipping cost. Simply look on the site of a product you think might work to see if they’ll offer you a sample. Some companies will even send you a sample in the mail if you show interest in acne medications. There are a lot of programs you can sign up for that will keep the samples going for a small fee. A lot of people tend to bypass the over the counter products and opt to see a dermatologist for better results. If this is the case then talk to your dermatologist about trying you on samples before committing to a cost skin program. Usually doctors have a few samples around so it might not be an issue.

4. Shop Around
One major problem with picking up prescription acne medication is a lot of people tend to stick to the same pharmacies. Many doctors have their favorites which they tend to recommend while some people use the same pharmacy for years. When it comes to picking up prescriptions you want to make sure you call around about prices before you commit to one pharmacy. Pharmacies are a lot like department stores in the fact that their prices fluctuate. You might be able to get some of your prescriptions cheaper at one pharmacy and others cheaper at another, so asking around before submitting the prescription is always your safest bet. Of course, shopping for an over the counter product is a lot easier. Typically shopping online will give you a good idea of the best places to buy the product, but you may also want to look around local ads to see if there is a sale or coupons that will make your purchase even more budget friendly.

5. Skip Scrubs
One of the most common purchases for acne treatments is special scrubs that are supposed to help get rid of blackheads and other problems. The truth is these scrubs tend to make matters worse. For starters, when you scrub skin that is already irritated you are simply going to irritate it a whole lot more. Now, instead of showing up to school with a few pimples or blackheads you’re going to end up with an entirely red face that is more noticeable then your minor breakout. Sometimes scrubbing can even spread bacteria and cause other pimples to form. Whether is is a hard facial soap scrub or a special sponge designed to exfoliate your face, you may want to skip out on purchasing it. There are some gentle scrubs out there, but for most people the scrubs are unnecessary and cause more harm than healing. In fact, the best soaps to use for a facial are those that foam and require nothing more than your fingers to apply.

6. Avoid Harsh Soaps
Many people have issues with breakouts because of the soaps they choose to use. Some people actually prefer to use the same soap all over their body which can be a huge problem for the face. Generally, the face’s skin is incredibly sensitive in comparison to other areas of the body, so using the same soap can really dry out the face and cause breakouts. If you really want to use the same soap all over your body then you need to look for a soap branded for sensitive skin. It might also be best if you find a soap that is also scentless as many of these soaps with scents will actually clog the pores causing more breakouts. The best thing you can do is to find a cleanser that is affordable and still works well with your face. You may be surprised at how many affordable cleaners on the marker will keep your face feeling great.

7. Don’t Over Use
Over consumption of a product can be a huge money waster, especially when it comes to acne products. A lot of people tend to use as much product as they think necessary which usually turns out to be too much. There are a few problems with doing this though. The first is using too much product can actually cause an imbalance with your skin, which means you’re going to be fighting off some very dry skin or a pretty bad breakout. It also means that you’re going to run out of the product a lot faster, which means spending money more often for something that shouldn’t be bought for a month or two more. You should always follow the instructions when it comes to any product so you don’t harm your skin or waste your money. You should also limit the amount of times you watch your face each day. Usually once in the morning and again at night is plenty and unless your medication states otherwise you should refrain from doing it any more often. This could actually strip the natural moisture from your face and, of course, it will cut down on your budget.

8. All About Pores
Getting in touch with your pores can actually leave you with healthier skin. It is important to know how your pores react and when you should work with them to create a better tone and healthier skin balance. During the summer our pores tend to open up which leave them victim to grime and oils which leads to breakouts and self confidence issues. You should always cleanse your skin twice a day during the summer, especially on the hot days. However, you might want to consider rinsing your face with cold water. This helps close up the pores so less irritants can clog them and cause problems. Although your pores might be more closed in the winter it might be a good idea to open up them for a deep cleanse occasionally. Simply use a steamer or a hot wash rag to get the pores open and use your favorite cleanser. When you’re finished rinse with cold water and enjoy your flawless look that cost you absolutely nothing.

9. Home Remedies
Sometimes the cheapest way to beat a skin problem is to look at what you already have in your home. There’s countless ways to help get your skin looking flawless without acually having to buy any acne products. For starters, olive oil and apple cider vinegar are a great way to cleanse the face while keeping moisture locked in so you’ll always have that radiant look. If you do have a break out then you slice a potato and rub it on the affected area. This will help lower the swelling and reduce redness which will disguise the breakout altogether. You should never pop a pimple, but most of it do at some point or another. Just in case you ever do, you may want to crush an aspirin and mix in some lemon juice to help reduce the appearance of an acne scar. Cucumbers are also a natural way to help bring back moisture in the face and are one of the most common home remedies today.

10. Coupons/Rebates
Most products on the market have lots of coupons if you’re willing to look for them. From online sales sites to your local sales paper you should be able to find amazing deals all over. One great thing about acne medication is most of the companies want people to try their product. This opens up a whole new world of coupons and rebates that will make your facial regime affordable. If you’re lucky you might even be able to find a coupon for your favorite products each time you need to restock. So, make sure to sign up for coupon groups as well as email updates for products you love.

Acne doesn’t have to be a burden you carry throughout your life. There are so many new treatments that not only help reduce the appearance of acne, but also help it go away for good. Now you can show off your lovely skin for what it is instead of hiding it behind make up and other products designed to hide your pimple. With any luck you’ll be able to save a whole lot of money on the product you decide to use for your lovely skin.

Every year we over stuff ourselves on turkey and all the fixings just so we can go out the next day and shop until we pretty much drop. Black Friday has become a tradition that seems to end Thanksgiving and start up the gift giving season. With all that turkey and laughter from Thanksgiving still in your system it might be tough to make budget friendly decisions for Black Friday. There are a few ways you can take to the stores and get everything you need without overdoing it. These tips are easy to follow and might actually have you relaxing the day after Thanksgiving instead of getting stressed out and lost amongst the crowds. So, get ready to make this most financially savvy and productive Black Friday you’ve experienced!

1. Shop Online
Sometimes the best way to keep your sanity during Black Friday is to not go out at all. There’s a lot of online shopping that can be taken care of during this holiday, so make sure you don’t miss out on it. In fact, most stores offer the exact same deals online as they do in the actual store! This means you don’t have to shove past other shoppers to get what you want, you get to avoid the long lines entirely and you don’t have to waste gallons of gas looking for parking spaces! A lot of stores will even throw in free shipping for their Black Friday shoppers which makes the deal a whole lot sweeter. You might want to check out stores that only allow you to shop online, like Amazon, because they tend to have some of the biggest deals on the market. The only thing you really have to worry about with online shopping is making sure you have a great connection that will help you stay on top of all the deal releases. So, find your favorite pajamas and make some delicious coffee because you might be in for a long day of shopping.

2. Set the Alarm
Sure, no one wants to wake up to a harsh alarm clock after a day filled with eating, but if you want to get the best deals you’ll have to be willing to sacrifice sleeping in. When it comes to Black Friday you might find that the best deals out there are offered very early in the morning, so you will want to be up and at the store before it opens up. A lot of people will even camp out at the store just so they can be one of the first in line. Make sure you know when all of the best deals are happening so you will know when you should be up. Of course, some shoppers choose to take a nice nap after dinner and hit the deals on Thanksgiving Day. There are a few stores who will help you shop early so make sure to schedule around openings so you don’t miss out on anything. If you do plan on shopping like this make sure to bring water and snack bars with you because it might be some time before you can break.

3. Technology
When it comes to utilizing your time on Black Friday you might want to stick to the technological items on your list. Generally these items tend to be more expensive and usually have the best discounts on the big day. Everything from gaming consoles, televisions, computers, games, movies and music will be discounted greatly on Black Friday. The technology section might be one of the most crowded areas in the store, but you shouldn’t let it bring you down if you have a lot of these items on your list. Getting your technological items out of the way also means you’re finished shopping for the bigger ticketed items so you can easily move on to the smaller items as the season progresses.

4. No Clothes
A lot of people want to spend quite a bit of time going through the clothing section on Black Friday which could be a huge waste of your time. Although there might be some deals out there for clothes you will actually find a better clothing sale in January, so you might want to ditch the clothes shopping altogether so you can get your money’s worth on Black Friday. Of course, if there are a few clothing items you just want to get out of the way then you might want to stick to a simple rule. If the price isn’t a 40% discount then you might want to steer clear of the deal. You won’t get the price you deserve on such a huge day of discounts so just skip it until later. The chances are you’ll find a good deal closer to the holiday anyway!

5. Utilize Smartphone
This Black Friday make sure you have your phone charged and ready to go for an exciting day of sale leads that you’ve never before experienced. As people become more reliant on their cellphones stores have started using special apps to help draw in business, especially on huge sale days like Black Friday. If you have certain stores that you know you’re going to be visiting then make sure to download the store apps before you head out to do some shopping. This will allow you to know when the store will release a new deal as well as what is actually on sale and for how much. You smartphone apps will also give you importation that will show you coupons and rebates that might not be available anywhere else. So, if you plan to do some smart shopping this season then make sure you have your phone ready for action too.

6. Look Early
Black Friday deals aren’t always focused on Friday. In fact, many stores will hold deals the week prior to the day or even the week after. These extended deals could help you save a whole lot of money if you play your cards right. Generally deals that last longer have less of a crowd so you can easily go through and find the things you want without having to feel stressed to grab whatever is in sight. Deals that last longer also tend to feature a wider of variety of goods so you can make sure you get the best possible deal on everything you need. Without the stress of having to fight for the items you want and push through big crowds you will be able to make smarter decisions that will ensure you get the most for your money and get the items needed for your holiday list without having to wait for the last possible minute.

7. Charge It
Although you might not find it wise to charge things to your card all of the time you may want to utilize the credit card during Black Friday. There are many advantages to using the card and most them actually protect you as a consumer. For instance, depending on the card you may find that you get a little more of a warranty with the credit card company than you do with the regular warranty. This is especially great when you’re buying technological items. Some cards will also ensure you have a return policy you can rely on which will allow you to return an item even if the store want to put up a fight about it. Other cards will also offer a discount if you purchase the item somewhere and find that it is cheaper elsewhere. You may need your receipt and proof of the lower price, but you should be able to save more money this way. A lot of cards will also offer points toward future purchases so make sure you pick a credit card that will give back when you shop this season.

8. Gift Receipts
Any time you buy something will be given as a gift outside of the household you should always ask for a gift receipt. This will protect you and the recipient in a number of different ways. For starters, shopping at Black Friday is almost a month prior to the holiday itself which means your gift is going to be out of use for a little while. If it turns out your gift doesn’t work properly on the day it is opened a gift receipt will allow you the recipient to head to the store and get a product that works just fine. You may also find that something doesn’t fit someone properly, with the receipt the person can easily get the correct size or trade it for something of equal value. With this receipt you won’t lose out on money because the gift didn’t work out for someone, instead your gift can be replaces or swapped at no extra cost to you, which is a relief when you’re shopping for people that are hard to buy for.

9. Coupons and Rebates
Even though Black Friday deals are already going to be pretty awesome you may find that there are still amazing coupons and rebates that can save you even more money! Before you go out shopping look online or in your local ads for coupons that take away an even greater percentage off of your purchase. You might want to check to make sure these deals are available on Black Friday so you don’t have to worry about holding up the line with coupons that aren’t valid. Some stores will even have coupons at the entrance of the store so you find great savings before you even start shopping. If you’re looking to buy technological items or items for the car then you might want to look around for rebates before you go out. Just because you’re getting a great deal on your items doesn’t mean that you won’t be able to find a rebate to take a good portion of the money away too. Make sure you know what you’re going to buy ahead of time so you can easily seek out the rebate and get in mailed in soon. You should also ask the sales clerk about rebate options too, just to ensure you get the best deal possible.

10. Research
One of the smartest things you can do before you go out shopping is a little research. You might enjoy the freedom of shopping on any other day, but having a researched and detailed schedule could save you hundreds in the long run. You can easily plan out your shopping routine by going online and finding the deals you want to follow and what else you would like to get at the store. You should work towards getting the more important items on your list first, but make sure you strategize your shopping plan so you don’t have to feel rushed or so you don’t end up spending too much money before you get to a certain item. Keep an eye out for sales plans around a week before the big day so you can easily get your shopping done for less.

As you get ready to venture out and grab the best deals on your holiday gifts you might want to remember to keep the holiday spirit in mind. It might be a frustrating day, but you can also fill it with excitement and fun if you know how to shop right. With these simple tricks you can be on your way to a full Christmas Tree before the month of December even begins. So, grab your coupons and get ready for a huge day of savings that will have you prepped for the busy season ahead of you.

It seems like smoothies are just about everywhere you look now. This diet craze has really inspired people to eat right even if they don’t particularly enjoy the taste of some fruits or vegetables. The only problem with the smoothie diet trend is many people are spending way too much money for the delicious drinks. There are a lot of new blenders on the market that cater to smoothie needs as well as prepackaged mixes designed to make your drinks taste incredible. Unfortunately, all of these newly marketed deals aren’t exactly the best on a family budget. There are many ways you can have your smoothie and drink it too though. So, relax and get ready to make some of the best tasting and incredibly nutritious drinks for you and your family without juicing the bank account.

1. Seasonal Fruits
One of the first steps to save money and to get the freshest and most nutritious ingredients is to look for fruits that are in season. Seasonal fruits can be a bit pricey if you find them out of season so you might want to do a little research as to what is in season and plan a recipe around those fruits and vegetables. Of course, you won’t want to use everything that is in season, so looking up what goes great in a smoothie might be of help. For instance, you might not enjoy putting corn in a smoother just because it on sale, nor will you really enjoy fruits that are mostly seeds like pomegranates. If you just want to wing it at the grocery store then you’ll see most of the seasonal fruits are much cheaper than other produce. Buying in season doesn’t just save you money though. A lot of the nutrients found in seasonal fruits will help you fight off illnesses that occur during that specific season, so give your immune system a fighting chance against colds and the flu without having to worry about taking special vitamins to fight them.

2. Bulk Buy
A lot of people starting out on a smoothie diet tend to go through and buy produce in small batches. This will not only prove to be more expensive but time consuming after the first few weeks of blending these treats. You are going to go through a whole lot of fruits and vegetables whether you’re juicing or making a smoothie so you should buy accordingly. Bulk buys are usually the best way to save a lot of money, so whenever you can you should get your fruit in larger packaging. Sometimes this isn’t always possible as many grocery stores will only package items like oranges, bananas, avocado and apples together. However, if you tend to shop at a farmer’s market you can often strike up a pretty good deal when you buy large portions of fruit and vegetables. Many people tend to avoid doing this because they don’t think they can possibly go through the produce before it comes bad. If this is the case then simply save out the produce you do think you can eat and cut the rest and bag it up for freezing. This will give you a cold smoothie that still has a delicious taste and plenty of nutrition.

3. Stay Off Brand
There’s a lot of brands out there that boost up their prices because they are attached to a large company. You can avoid these extra charges by looking for the foods you want at an off brand price. Fruits and vegetables tend not to have a huge price increase because of brands, but if you can try to buy the produce as locally as possible. This will cut down cost here. Other items such as dairy products and nuts can be a huge drain on the budget if you’re not careful though. Many people like to add a touch of yogurt to their smoothies, so try to find a larger package of yoghurt that features the grocery store brand or a brand that isn’t advertised. This is also important when you look for soy or ingredients like almond milk which can really improve the taste and nutritious value of your smoothies. Nuts can really become expensive if you shop for brand names, so try to look at the bottom shelves when you shop for these items. If you’re careful about what you buy you may find having items apart from fruits and vegetables is possible without breaking the bank.

4. Use More Vegetables
Its no lie that most people don’t like vegetables and many just can’t seem to get the right amount in their diet. The amazing thing about smoothies is you can sneak vegetables into your diet without ever tasting them, which is why so many parents are embracing the idea of smoothies. One of the best things about using vegetables in your smoothies is they tend to cost a bit less and go a lot further. Instead of filling up your blender with a lot of different fruits you should fill it up half way with a leafy green vegetable like spinach. This veggie tends to be one of the cheapest and is packed with things you can’t miss out on your diet. With the blender half full of this delicious vegetable you can then add the fruit without having to diminish your fruit stock. You might also want to consider adding a few more ingredients like carrots or broccoli that is also pretty cheap to buy. This will really amp up your smoothie while keeping the cost of each drink incredibly low.

5. Go For Expired
Most grocery stores will keep a clearance bin for items that they need to get rid of right away. Typically the items are fruits and vegetables that are beginning to wilt or only have a couple of days left on their shelf life. These are excellent items for smoothies, especially if you make the drinks everyday. Most items in the clearance bin are 50% off, if not more, and tend to drop a little bit more each day, which means you’ll pay mere pennies for a good piece of fruit. This is a great way to cut down on your smoothie budget, but it might mean altering a few of your recipes to suit the fruits and vegetables you found that day.

6. Look in the Refrigerator
One of the major cost effective ways to save on smoothies is to use what you already have in the house. A lot of people tend to think they have to go out and buy ingredients specifically for smoothies when they have plenty of good food already in the home. Before you go shopping make sure you take inventory of the food you have in the refrigerator so you don’t waste money on food that might go bad. For instance, a lot of people tend to have excess vegetables that didn’t make it into a meal for one reason or another. Carrots, lettuce, spinach and broccoli are some of the most common vegetables that get overlooked in the refrigerator and therefore go bad when they would add the perfect touch to a smoothie. During the holidays most people have excess apples, pumpkin, raisins, grapes and other fruits that go perfectly in pies just sitting around. Most homes also have little packages of yoghurts that are forgotten or juices that sit past expiration date because people would rather drink other things. These items are great ingredients for a smoothie and will cut down on wastage in the home.

7. Go Frozen
If you don’t plan on making a smoothie everyday, or you you tend to forget about produce in the home then you may want to go with frozen ingredients. A lot of people see frozen foods as less nutritious but many pack almost the same amount of vitamins as a fresh price of fruit. You should always shop carefully when it comes to frozen fruits as some stores will hike up the prices during certain seasons. The best thing you can do is shop for frozen fruit like you would seasonal fruit. These pieces of fruit will last a long time so you can stock up when you see a deal. You might also want consider buying packages that contain more than one type of fruit so you can have a diverse smoothie throughout the year. You should always make sure the price isn’t higher than what it would be if you were buying the produce fresh which is easily avoided if you steer clean of brand names.

8. Recipes
So many people take to the book stores looking for excellent recipes when they decide they want to try a smoothie diet. This can be one of the worst mistakes you’ll make when it comes to making a smoothie. A lot of books will claim to have the best recipes for weight loss or energy, when the truth is eating healthy is one of the best ways to lose weight no matter what recipe you use. Instead of buying a book on smoothies you should search around the internet to see if there is any that sound good to you. There are so many websites dedicated to proving people with smoothies that have so many health benefits that you’ll never want to buy a book on the topic. You might also want to check out some of the numerous videos posted online that show people creating some of their favorite drinks. The options are endless and they’re totally free.

9. Blender Crisis
Currently there are a good number of blenders on the market now that claim to create the smoothest and healthiest smoothies on the market. A lot of these blender can cost you up to $500 if you’re not doing research too! When it comes to a smoothie maker it might be best to keep under $50, especially if you’re not sure if you want to stick with the diet or not. There are many smoothie makers on the market that don’t cost a lot and will basically do the same job as the expensive machines, so shop around before you decide to make a big purchase. Of course, if you really want to save money you could always stick with the blender you have. Most blenders will do a great job at blending your ingredients and although it might not be as smooth as you like it, it will still taste pretty good.

10. Go Used
A lot of people have to have their expensive gadgets, which is fine especially if you know it an investment you’re going to keep around the house and use often. You don’t have to go out and buy one of these machines new though. Many people who get excited about the smoothie diet go out and buy an expensive Ninja or Vitamix blender and then realize that they aren’t all that into the diet plan. Of course, these people want to get some money back on their purchase so they list the product to eager buyers. This is a great time to swoop in and buy the piece for yourself. You should always make sure the blender is working before you buy it though,especially if you’re getting the product through Craig’s List which has no clauses to help buyers. If you are looking for a refurbished model from a department store or from the actual warehouse then you have nothing to worry about.

Smoothies are one of the best ways to get all the nutrients you need in your diet, so don’t let the price tag scare you away. With these tips you can have a delicious smoothie that doesn’t come close to costing you what it would had a chain smoothie restaurant. Now, you can enjoy the delicious taste of health food that will even have the pickiest of kids pleased to indulge in this healthy treat!

With the holidays just around the corner it is practically the time of year to start making reservations for all of those holiday travels. Looking for a hotel room can be one of the toughest aspects of the holiday season, especially if you’re looking to beat holiday prices. There are many hotels out there that can offer you a cozy place to spend your holiday with family and with a few simple to follow tips you can spend less than you’d think. Sure, we all want our holidays to feel special which might mean spending a few extra dollars to get the comfort we require. However, if you can follow these tips you might find that really expensive hotel room is a lot more affordable than you originally thought.

1. Forget the Star System
A lot of people tend to judge a hotel on the amount of stars it as earned, which could be a huge mistake if you’re working with a tight budget. The star system can be great if you’re looking to splurge a little and want to get a high end experience, but if you need to book a room for a few days the star system probably will make you feel a little uncomfortable. Most five star hotels took years to earn each star, so if you want a high end experience then try to check out a newer hotel that might not have worked its way up to the five star level. Of course, if you are on a tight budget then you might want to stick with an economy hotel. These rooms are not only clean and comfortable but will also give you a whole lot more for your money. For instance, most economy hotels will allow you a free breakfast and wi-fi which could cut hundreds off of your holiday bill. Many places will even provide an indoor pool and gym if you’re looking for entertainment between family visits. The best thing is many of these hotels will also allow children at no extra cost!

2. Social Media
Today’s society is strung around social media pages, which could be a huge advantage to you if you like to keep up to date with what’s going on. If you’re planning to stay in a specific hotel then make sure you follow or like their social media page. Typically hotels will go through and update on their latest deals and events that are happening during the time you are staying. This will not just help save you money, but it will also allow you to plan accordingly. Make sure to keep an eye out for coupons and other deals so you will know what to ask about when you go to pay at the desk. A lot of social media pages love to hear from their customers. So, if you’re planning a stay soon then you might want to mention how excited you are on their page. Sometimes the hotel will give you a discount or an upgrade just for helping them prove they have loyal customers.

3. Bundle
When it comes to traveling, you’ll probably get the most out of bundling your entire vacation. There are numerous sites online and travel agencies worldwide that will help you get your airline ticket and hotel reservations in one package. You might not think that bundling is the best idea, but when you do a little comparative research you’ll find that you will save a lot of both the airline and the hotel reservation. This is usually because hotels have to charge you a fee for many of their services when you shop online or reserve via the phone. When you get your travel plans worked out through a bundled package a lot of the time you actually get to waive the fees that make your hotel a lot more expensive than the hotel advertises. You should always make sure you compare prices before locking yourself into any bundle though so you don’t have to worry about the deal not saving you enough money.

4. Refunds
Sometimes we book a hotel far advance which could mean the rate of the hotel decreases within the time of actually checking in. Thanks to many different sites, including Tingo, you can now go online and check the rate of your hotel at booking time as well as now to see if there was a decrease in price. If there was then all you have to do is enter the information into the site for a refund of the difference. Many hotels will actually allow you to call up and ask for the same refund, so don’t be afraid to call and ask about it if you’ve noticed the price of your hotel has been reduced. This is one of the easiest ways to ensure you pay a fair price as well as to save even more money for other traveling expenses. Of course, when you do book with a hotel you should always make sure your hotel has a refund clause just in case you can’t make the trip. This will ensure you get your deposit back if you end up not staying in the hotel.

5. Upgrades
A lot of people like to get the full experience of their hotel room which could really cost a bundle if you’re not keeping track of your purchases. From room service to television usage the fees can really add up on you stay at a hotel. If you tend to be someone who absolutely loves the convenience of room service and other hotel add ons then you might want to just go for the whole add on package. This will allow you to add room service as you wish without having to worry about the bill mounting higher and higher. Before you check into a hotel make sure to call and ask about their add on program so you can see if this is worthwhile for you and your family. Many hotels will have a lot of different add on programs so you may be able to customize your stay specifically to your needs.

6. Loyalty Programs
There are a lot more people traveling during the holidays now. Either for business trips or to reunite with loved ones, spending time in a hotel room is a pretty common experience. If you find yourself staying at hotels frequently you may want to sign up for the loyalty program, especially if you have a specific hotel you like to stay in. This will allow you to get free extras when you stay at a hotel while also providing you discounts and occasionally a free night in a room. This can be especially great during the holiday season as you may want to go a bit more expense when choosing your hotel package. The points you earned throughout the year may work to help you cut down even more on your hotel room which will make the stay even more comfortable for you.

7. Time Your Visit
A lot of the time your biggest savings will come with your timing. When it comes to hotel rooms this can be a major factor in the price you pay for your room. It is always best to know when peak travel times are in the area you plan on visiting. This can help you avoid traveling these times if possible, which can save you a lot of money. If you’re planning on traveling during the holidays then chances are rates will be higher everywhere. So, if you have to travel during a peak period then you will already know it is best to book in a less popular area of the city, or on the outskirts of a city. You may be surprised at some peak times though, so it is always best to research your destination before planning the vacation. If you can avoid a peak period you should as it will help save more money than you would expect.

8. Location
It’s always convenient to stay in a hotel next to an area we plan on visiting, but it isn’t always convenient to pay the price. Usually hotels around the center of a city or next to a huge attraction, like a theme park, are blown out of proportion when it comes to price. So, if you’re looking at spending some times near a big attraction then you may want to start your search away from the area you’ll be visiting. Yes, it is always nice to be close so you don’t have to worry about traveling, but by staying further away from the area you could save up to a hundred dollars a night, if not more. It is best to call about up hotels away from the area to see if they operate shuttles to specific areas or if there is a good public transportation center near the area. This will help cut down on travel expenses while you’re there so you can enjoy spending less money on the entire vacation.

9. Discounts
Most hotel rooms have an excellent discount system that most people simply overlook. It is important to call and talk to the hotel about discounts before you decide to book with them so you will know exactly what discounts you qualify for. Typically hotels have many of the same discounts that standard places have. For instance, if you’re a senior citizen or military then there’s a good chance you will get a pretty good discount on your hotel room by just showing you identification card. There are also numerous discounts out there for students who have a valid school I.D. Card which is perfect for college students who are traveling home for the holidays. A lot of hotels will also not charge extra if you have young children staying with you, so make sure to ask about the price of a child staying and mention the age of your little one. Some hotels will even give a special price to professional truck drivers who find themselves on the road all of the time. The discounts are endless, so just make sure to mention your needs when you make a reservation and you might be surprised as to how much you can save.

10. Barter
Bartering might sound a little medieval, but you’d be surprised as to how much it can save you while you’re working on securing a room. Before you start your bartering process you should always make sure you book into a hotel that has a refund policy. When you find a great hotel then look around for its greatest competition. If it seems like a hotel you’d like to stay in then call it up and mention that you’re staying at the other hotel and would like to know their deals. Usually people will jump on the opportunity to steal business away from a competitor so you will end up with a great deal. The key to this process is finding hotels that are near to one another and have a lot of the same features. Once you have this part of the bartering ready, you will be good to go find an even better deal.

With all of the hustle and bustle of the holiday season the last thing you’ll want to worry about is your hotel room and paying too much for it. These simple tips will help you avoid spending too much on your room without having to sacrifice the standard of place you’re staying at. Finally, you’ll be able to have a comfortable place to stay that won’t leave you feeling remorseful about the bill. This will really help improve your holiday season or any other time you feel like traveling.

Every year we seem to find ourselves making trips all around the world. From visiting family during the holidays to going on business trips, flying is one of the most common ways to travel long distances. Despite its monopoly on the long distance travel market the airlines still maintain high prices that leave many people thinking twice about their voyage. There are a few ways that you can work around the high airline tickets though. With a few pointers you’ll be on your way to a cheap holiday or a reunion that won’t leave you feeling remorseful for spending the money. This can be one of the most important areas that you might want to save money, especially when it comes to the over crowded and budget tight holiday season.

1. Book Early
Saving money on your airline tickets can be as easy as booking a flight a few months in advance. In fact, the sooner you make the plans to fly the better. If you intend on taking a vacation in the winter months it might be a great idea to try to book as early as April so you can lock in a deal without having to worry about it again. Flights made as early as this might be subject to change, but airlines will have to keep you scheduled on a flight even if the flight ends up being pricier than what you originally paid. With the tickets already purchased you’ll have more money for preparation and can put the entire vacation out of your mind until it is time to go. Booking early also means you’ll have as many seats as you need secured, so larger family will feel secure knowing they are all on the same flight.

2. Book online
Looking for flights online as been common practice for awhile, but many people still try to book through a travel agent or by calling the airline directly. There are many advantages to booking online that go further than the home convenience aspect. In fact, when you book online you can actually opt out of some of the hidden fees that sneak up in your total price. While booking make sure to pay extra attention to baggage and food information as you could have a chance to skip out on some of the bigger fees these items can add on to the ticket price. Another great think about booking online is you get to play with flight dates. If you have some flexibility in your schedule then make sure to pick different departure and return dates to see which dates actually give you the best price. You might also want to clear out your browser history if you decide to come back to the same deal. Most airline sites will recognize the cookie and not show you the same deal that you originally found.

3. Keep an Open Mind
Shopping for a flight can be frustrating, but part of this frustration can be reduced if you simply keep a broad time period in mind. A lot of people tend to shop for flights that tend to be at a convenient hour, which is part of the over crowding problem, especially during the holidays. If you’re looking for a flight in a hurry then try searching red eyes to see how much the price difference is. Typically these flights will save you a good chunk of change and will be a whole lot less crowded than the flights that leave during a normal hour. This will allow you to get some rest on your flight so you won’t feel as tired when you arrive at your destination. It might also make the flying anxiety subside a bit, since there will be a lot more room for you to breathe and get comfortable before take off.

4. Mind Your Flight
If you book a flight early it is important to keep an eye on the price of your ticket as time progressed. Sometimes flights decrease in price because of lack of interest or other unforeseen reasons. When this happens many different airlines will actually offer up a discount to anyone that calls up and points out the price difference. This is a lot like matching prices that department stores partake in, so don’t be afraid the ask your airline about it. You should also always keep an eye on your flight to see if it has been canceled. The sooner you know your flight isn’t going to happen the sooner you should be on your phone trying to get re-booked. This might get you on a sooner flight, or flight that might be a little bit nicer than the one you booked. A lot of people who wait too long to rebook often end up with flights the airline provides, which could leave you waiting longer to get to your destination. If the chosen date doesn’t work out for you then you might have to ask for a refund and book with a more expensive company, which no one wants to do when they’re trying to save.

5. Change Fees
When you book a flight you don’t always know what is going to happen between the time of booking and the day of the flight. Sometimes things happen hat force us to postpone a trip or cancel it altogether. A lot of airlines will offer a change fee for your ticket at a fairly affordable price. This will allow you to swap up your ticket for a more convenient time, or post pone the ticket for an entirely different trip. Although this might not actually save you money if you do end up taking the flight, it will save you a whole lot of money if things happen to go awry. Although many people don’t see this fee worth purchasing, those who have lost hundreds on a missed flight might urge anyone to pay the simple fee.

6. Pack Light
One of the biggest expenses people tend to incur through flying is because of their luggage. Most airline sales contain a luggage limit that is fairly reasonable if you can leave out a lot of the extras. Typically keeping your luggage to one suitcase per person or less if possible will get you through your check in and onto the flight without forcing you to pay extra. However, if you’re someone who tends to pack everything and the kitchen sink then you might want to pay the fee for an extra bag rather than paying the fee at check in. One way to really free yourself from baggage fees is to simple bring along a carry on. This will allow you to keep your personal items close to you at all times so you don’t have to worry about them getting lost in baggage. This will also allow you to leave the airport directly after you land, instead of having to wait an extra hour just to pick up your bag. If you’re having trouble choosing what not to bring then you might want to make a check list of must haves. Certain clothes and personal documents are a must, whereas large bottles of personal hygiene products or a multitude of books could easily be left. Also, you might want to consider mailing holiday gifts rather than bringing them on the plane with you.

7. Destination Knowledge
Everywhere you airline travels to has a high and a low season. If you’re planning a trip then it might be wise to do a little research on when you should travel to each destination. Knowing this can reduce the price of your airline tickets and help you save money throughout the entire vacation. Sometimes the highs and lows might be quite obvious, but many have strange seasons. For instance, if you’re planning a trip to London then you might want to book for an October trip. The airlines will be less crowded and the weather will still be bearable enough to walk around and enjoy the sights. If you want a warmer trip, to say the Caribbean, then May is a cheap time to book. This gives the tourist areas a break from the Spring Break crowd before they get ready for Summer tourist. You should also know a bit about the cultures of the regions as you might end up showing up during a great cultural event that many tourist miss you on. A little research can go very far when it comes to your traveling adventures.

8. Use Miles Cards
A lot of airlines will offer many of their customers miles cards, as does many credit card companies. If you tend to do a lot of flying, or perhaps like to take one of two trips a year, then you may want to sign up for a card that gives you miles back. Many people can build this miles up fairly quickly, especially if they tend to do a lot of flying for business, which essentially could get them a couple of free flights a year. If you’re looking into traveling abroad this year then you might want to use your miles points to help reduce the major price of the ticket. This can really help lower your vacation spending and will make the trip more worthwhile.

9. Reconsider Round Trip
For awhile now round trip airline tickets have been the most convenient and budget friendly ways to get to and from a destination. Currently there are so many deals for fliers that it might be wise to simply skip out on the round trip ticket and stick to the single flight ticket. When you’re shopping online make sure to look to see how much your trip would be on both round trip and single trip as you may find there is no price difference at all. These tickets can really draw people in because they believe they’re getting a reduced price when in reality they could be paying for two expensive single tickets. This is why shopping around is important. Buying single tickets is also great for anyone who believes they might be gone for longer than expected. The tickets will allow more time between one another so if something goes wrong it is cheaper to just change the single ticket instead of gaining a fee for both trips.

10. No Food
Traveling makes a lot of people nervous which causes them to want to do whatever it takes to make themselves comfortable. For many, this means eating. Airports are quite aware of how people love to take comfort in some of their favorite foods which is why there is typically a wide selection of restaurant for travelers of all types to choose from. In most there are even bars and coffee shops to help ease the nerves of travelers. This might sound great to travelers, but the truth is most of these restaurants have practically doubled prices for the hungry and weary traveler. This works because most people are tired and frustrated by the time they get to sit down to eat, so they’re willing to pay just about anything. When you’re traveling it is imperative to stay away from these places as they won’t do your wallet any favors. If you can try to bring in some granola bars or buy a candy bar from a vending machine. Typically flights will serve a small snack or meal, so waiting to eat is always an option.

Working around airline fees and time schedules can be horrible, but if you can manage to save some money then the extra trouble will be worth it. Now, when you decide to fly somewhere you won’t have to worry as much about spending a small fortune for your tickets. With these simple tips you should be able to work your way around the airline traps so you can spend your hard earned money on more important things.

Throughout the year there are many conventions dedicated those fan who can’t live without their video games, comic books and other superhero merchandise and stories. These conventions have typically been part of an underground culture for decades, but now being a geek, or simply being interested in things considered geeky, is now cool. Superhero fans around the world venture far and wide to check out their favorite conventions each year. It doesn’t matter what your niche in the geek world there is a little something for everyone. On the down side, these conventions can be a huge money pit, especially if you’re going to your first convention. If you can remember a few simple rules you can easily make it through the convention without feeling like you need to empty out your wallet to impress your favorite celebrities. So, take a step back and take it all in while letting these tips guide you through your convention experience.

1. Buy Online
Shopping for tickets is one of the first steps to making it to a convention. If you’ve ever tried to buy tickets for major events, such as San Diego’s Comic Con, then you know you have to act fast or you’ll potentially lose out for the year. Buying online for this convention, and others like it, is crucial as it will secure your place at the event. Sometimes these conventions will offer tickets at the door, but it is only if they haven’t sold out already. If you do decide to wait and buy them the day of the convention then you’ll really need to wake up early as you’ll end up spending quite a portion of the day in line, which means you’ll miss out on a lot of what you’re paying for. A lot of tickets are also raised ten dollars per person, so if you’re looking to buy for the whole family then make sure to hurry and get them online or you might miss out on a lot of extra spending money.

2. Bring Snacks
The one thing you can pretty much count on when it comes to conventions is the food is going to be pretty pricey. Most convention centers have a pretty good selection, but the prices are hiked up in order to meet event standards. There are a few vending machines you might want to visit if you’re starting to get really hungry, but going to one of the food vendors could be a huge mistake. In fact, leaving the convention to eat at a restaurant might also be a bad idea, especially if you’re in a big city. Most convention centers are located in a tourist area, which means you’ll be paying a lot more than you should for food. There is one majorly great point about going to a comic convention though. That is, they let your bring backpacks and outside food into the area. So, instead of budgeting for an expensive meal try packing granola bars, sandwiches and a few waters to get you through the action packed day. After all, you might not want to stop and take a lunch break if you have a tight schedule.

3. Show Up Early
The best thing you can do to save money at a convention is to show up early. Conventions can get pretty congested, especially as the day goes on. If you can be in line and ready to go before the gates open then you’ll not only get to see more things for your money, but you’ll be set up to keep more in your wallet than you think. Getting through the lines early in the morning is a bit of a breeze, which means you won’t have to contend with so many people on the merchant floor. With time and space available to you you’ll be able to go through each of the areas without feeling like you’re being rushed. This can be a major advantage to people who are looking to get some unique artwork. Many vendors only bring a certain number of items with them to sell, so if you do end up waiting too long you might miss out on a great piece. This often spooks many people into buying one of everything they wish they could have, instead of taking the time to digest it all and make an appropriate decision. With the floor not crammed like sardine cans you’ll be able to make calm rational decisions. A lot of comic book creators will also give you a free autograph if the line isn’t too long. Make sure you know it is free before you accept though.

4. Plan Ahead
Working out a plan before you show up to the convention can be one of the biggest helping hands throughout the day. Typically conventions will post up a schedule a few days to a few weeks prior to the big event. You will also get a schedule when you pass through the ticket line. It is important to take a few brief moments, or an extended amount of time prior to the event, to work out what is you and your family want to do at the convention. There are many events that clash with one another, or some that might force you to leave an event early, so look at times carefully. This can really save you money as the events are totally free and you might even get goodies when you show up. The more free shows you’re checking out the more time you aren’t spending money downstairs in the merchant area or on food. Panels are what most people want to see when they’re at a convention so get in line early if you can! You might also want to plan out a budget to spend at the convention. This will help you keep spending to a minimum if you typically can’t contain your excitement at these events.

5. Walk
Like many popular events parking at the convention center can be pretty pricey. This price tag only triples if you intend on going every day of the convention. Most people who live in town tend to take public transportation to the nearest area and then walk to the convention from there. This helps cut down on the cost of parking and gives your legs a little wake up before you spend all day climbing up and downstairs and running to panels you have to get a spot for. If you’re an out of towner then try to work out the bus schedule to get to the center. Of course, if you are really planning ahead you might have already booked a room close to the center. This will give you easy walking access to the convention so you can come and go as you please without worrying about paying for parking again.

6. Full Package
Most conventions tend to last for an entire weekend with different events each day, so you might want to check out each day if you have the time. If this is the case then make sure you check to see if the convention offers tickets in a package. Typically this will allow you to save at least ten dollars on your ticket purchase, which could come in handy if you’re buying tickets for more than one person. Buying tickets in bulk also means that you only have to stand in line once! This is a huge time saver and will let you get what you need to get done while everyone else is still stuck in line. The best aspect of the bulk tickets is you typically only spend $30 more for a full weekend and no one has to sacrifice seeing an event they want.

7. Sunday Events
If you’ve never been to a convention before and you aren’t sure if you’re ready for the fandom then you might want to gran a Sunday ticket. Typically Sundays are a cool down day for the convention and they start a bit later and end sooner. You can usually see the same celebrities and catch a few panels, but the crowd has ceased quite a bit. There are some cons to going on Sunday, such as missing out on major panels and limited vendors, but if you like a mellow pace then Sunday is for you. The best thing about Sunday tickets is they are half of the price of Friday and Saturday tickets so you get a pretty good deal out of. If you fall in love with the convention then at least you’ll know you should grab the package next time!

8. Just Say Hi
One of the most appealing things about conventions is the multitude of celebrities that you’ll find walking around. Typically you can get an autograph from just about everyone, but they do come at a price. The average cost of an autograph is about $25, so you can only imagine how much you’d be spending if you got one from everyone you saw. Instead of simple asking for an autograph you might get a little bit more out of your visit if you give the celeb a handshake and strike up a conversation. You might be surprised at how down to earth many of them are and if they like you enough you might get a free photograph with them. Most celebrities are plagued with people looking for autographs all day long, so a nice unexpected statement might be your ticket to a celebrity’s heart. This will give you a memory that might outlast your piece of autographed paper.

9. Cosplay
One big event at the conventions is Cosplay, which is basically people dressing up as their favorite characters. You will see some incredible designs at conventions that might even inspire you to Cosplay yourself. Instead of buying an elaborate costume you should always try to build your own as often as possible. This will save you a whole lot of money and will earn you respect from the Cosplay community. If you don’t know where to start try talking to Cosplayers that you meet and ask them out they got started. Many will be more than happy to point you in the right direction. You can always find a large amount of tutorials online that could have you winning competitions in no time. You should also keep in mind that most Cosplayers don’t mind taking pictures with you for no cost. This can be a great alternative to the autograph dilemma and will make for fun memories in the future.

10. Discounts
From tickets to merchandise, you should be able to find a wide selection of discounts if you’re willing to look. To begin with most children, military and senior citizens will get a discount on their entrance tickets as long as they apply for the appropriate badge when buying tickets. This, of course, isn’t the only place you can find discounts in the convention. A lot of comic book creators and artist really like a great conversation during the day as they mostly only deal with quick sales. Sometimes, if you can strike a chord with some of the vendors they may offer you a discount just for giving them a break from the whole sales aspect of the convention. Some vendors are also great about helping you out if you decide to buy a full collection from them, or if you’ve bought from them before.

Conventions are a great way to bring the family together, but they don’t have to be a money consumer. These tips will help you keep your cool and save some cash while you’re surfing through the convention crowds. While at the convention it is important to remember that the time is meant for having fun and now how many fan items you can find, or what foods you need to try. With this in mind you’ll fall in love with the super hero environment.