Having a Party Without Breaking the Bank
November 12, 2015 § Leave a comment
We all know how the costs can add up around each special event and holiday. How can we be thankful on a budget? We can and if we are careful we can lift a lot of stress for our shoulders and make the day more about gratitude for all of our blessings and way less about us.
Food – Reward cards, loyalty programs, coupons and cash-back may all be ways to get the turkey and side dishes more cheaply. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, September turkey prices have historically been LESS expensive than the price of turkey in November. Though it is already November you can still save money now by stocking up in the weeks prior, when there are deals on canned or frozen veggies. Try not to buy things the day before you need them. In a frantic, last-minute search of the store we tend to overspend.
Sharing – If everyone brings something to Thanksgiving dinner, expand what the potluck needs may be so that people bring a COUPLE of dishes instead of only one. ‘Sharing is caring,’ right? Supercharge the concept, accepting how others prepare favorite dishes, so that you can save on money and hassle and allow them an opportunity to give to others. Let others help in the festivities, my friend.
Décor – Studies have shown that the average family spends $100 on decorations for each holiday. You may have the luxury of doing even more than that. BUT you could make this a cost-effective holiday by making this cozy chic. Instead of buying everything, think more creatively.
Having a lot of company with not enough matching dishes? Use mismatched plates for a chic and cozy look. Use the amazing talent of kids in your circle to help with décor. Have the kids decorate paper or even fabric napkins. Use brown paper as a table runner and have the kids decorate that as well. Collect cones and branches from the neighborhood, or lovely red Winterberry from the roadsides for displays around the house. We are blessed in this region with a bounty of beauty right out our door. You can make the house festive for free. Get on Pinterest and get some excellent and cost-saving ideas.
It doesn’t cost anything to be thankful. Gratitude is a matter of the heart, my bud. Remember the why of the holiday and relax. (CR11159)
Finance with Chocolate Sauce 
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