Sweet Frugal Life

Being Frugal Doesn't Make Life Any Less Sweet

DIY Decor On A Budget

By: Sweet Frugal Lifecomment

Frugal Decoration Ideas You Can DIY

I don’t know if this is just me…but I seem to always feel like my home needs an update.  I get one room looking just right, and then I notice another room is outdated.  I love giving my home a new look….but it can get so expensive!  Which is why I do a lot of DIY decor on a budget.  It’s the best way to give a home a fresh new look, without breaking the bank! 

If you are like me and wanting to makeover your home, but also on a budget, make sure to try some of these easy ideas listed below!

Dollar Tree Tiered Tray

Frugal and Dollar Tree just belong in the same sentence, don’t you think????  Which is exactly why I love this Dollar Tree Tiered Tray.  It’s the absolute cutest craft and will only take a few hours and a few dollars to throw together.  Plus, it’s something that anyone could make, whether you deem yourself “crafty” or not!  Whooo-hooo!

 

Custom Painted DIY Doormat

It’s always fun to get a fresh new door mat, but what’s even more fun is getting a fresh new door mat for a cheap price!  Am I right or am I right????  

This cute Custom Painted DIY Doormat is the perfect way to update your front porch while on a tight budget.

Finished doormat on front porch.

 

Related:  Cheap Farmhouse Decorations

 

DIY Dollar Tree Wreath

Here’s another fun and easy project made from supplies found at Dollar Tree.

This DIY Dollar Tree Wreath would make a cute addition to your indoor or outdoor decor.  And it’s easy to customize just by changing up the flowers to match your favorite look!

completed diy wreath

 

 

Upcycled Succulent Planter

Quit tossing your used cans away and turn them into an adorable farmhouse style planter instead!  Here’s an easy tutorial you can follow to make your own upcycled succulent planter.  You will only need a few supplies (and you probably already have some of them in your home!).

Succulent Planter Craft Project

 

Driftwood Clock

I love crafts that you can make out of things that would typically be tossed aside.  It’s so beautiful to give something that has been forgotten a new life and purpose!

That’s the reason why I love this DIY Driftwood Clock.  You take a piece of driftwood, clean it up a bit, attach a clock kit…and wah-lah…..you have a beautiful clock!  It really is the perfect DIY decor on a budget!

How to make a driftwood clock

 

China Cabinet Makeover

Do you have a china cabinet in your home?  It might be fun to give it a new look with this quick and easy makeover!  All you need is some wallpaper and a few supplies to give the china cabinet a fresh look!

Photo of empty cabinet with the wall paper on the back of the hutch. The wallpaper has branches with light green leaves and gray owls perched on the branches. the background of the paper is cream colored.

 

 

Burlap Planter

If you know basic sewing then you can whip up this darling DIY Burlap Planter.  The directions are very simple to follow and makes for such a cute and fun way to store your house plants.

burlap basket pot cover free sewing pattern completed

 

Vase Makeover

You don’t need to spend a lot of money to display expensive looking items in your home, and that’s exactly what I love about this tutorial.  It shows you how easy it can be to turn an ordinary Dollar Tree vase into a beautiful expensive looking vase.

Acrylic painted vases that look like terracotta

 

Colorful Wreath

A homemade wreath is the perfect DIY decoration on a budget.  They are always so easy to make, and beautiful to display!

I just love this colorful floral and burlap wreath.  It’s made using a pool noodle, which you can get at the Dollar Tree for super cheap!  I never would have guessed!

Colorful Summer Wreath

 

Burlap Garland

Garlands are such a fun way to dress up a fireplace mantle, or an entry table.  Make sure you check out this Burlap Garland tutorial to learn how to make this cute and cheap decoration!

burlap garland

 

 

Planter Box

Give your front porch a makeover with this DIY Modern Planter Box tutorial.  It’s the perfect project for someone who is new to power tools.  Your porch will look fresh and new with these planter boxes up front!

Super Easy DIY Modern Planter Boxes

 

Crushed Tin Can Pocket Planter

I’m always amazed at what can be done with a little creativity and modge podge.  Mixed Kreations shows us how she took a tin can, a napkin, and some modge podge to make this beautiful tin can pocket planter.  It makes a beautiful gift or keep it for yourself for a fun DIY decoration on a budget.

crushed tin can pocket

 

DIY Faux Ceramic Vases

I am seriously obsessed with these Faux Ceramic Vases!  I had no idea you could make a faux ceramic paint with baking soda!  The finished look is so beautiful and expensive looking!  I’m seriously going to paint everything in my home using this tutorial!

faux ceramic projects are lined up on display with dried florals

 

 

Paint Cabinet Hardware

Make your cabinets look brand new simply by painting the cabinet hardware, it’s so genius!  This is one of the easiest ways to update your home while sticking to a tight budget!  

image of before painted hardware on cabinets with arrow pointing to after laundry room cabinets with black painted hardware.

 

DIY Pillow Covers

Give your throw pillows a whole new look with this easy DIY pillow cover tutorial!  The pillow covers have a cute decorative edge to help them stand out, and it will be easy to customize them to your home vibe by the material you choose.

 

DIY Decor On a Budget

I hope this article helped you to find a few….or many easy ideas for frugal decorating!  Sometimes all it takes is a little creativity and time to transform a room!

 

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easy diy decoration ideas -decorating on a budget

frugal DIY decor ideas - easy DIY decorations to make

Enjoy these DIY decor on a budget ideas!

Frugal Living Tips From The Great Depression

By: Sweet Frugal Lifecomment

The best money saving tips we can learn from our grandparents.

I have many fond memories of sitting in my great grandmothers home while she shared stories with my family about living during the great depression.  She explained that growing up during this time taught her to always be frugal, even if it isn’t always necessary, it’s still a wonderful way to live.  Her example taught me so much about mindful spending, and I think everyone can learn many frugal living tips from the great depression.

I admire everyone who went through the depression, it was such a hard and difficult time for many people.  But, through that process they learned how to be creative with the things they owned, resourceful with their belongings, and prudent with their earnings.  They learned to never waste, and to always think long and hard before spending any money.

Today I’m sharing a few of their frugal tips, and I hope these tips can help you live frugally and save more money.  We can all be a little more frugal…even if it isn’t a necessity!

1.  Make Your Own Household Cleaners

It was almost unheard of to buy a household cleaning product at the store during the depression era.  Most households knew the basic ingredients to whip up their own cleaning recipe, they saved a lot of money simply by making their own.

The best part is that you probably already have every ingredient you need to make your own household cleaners. 

Check out a few of my favorite recipes:  Homemade Household Cleaning Recipes.

2.  Repurpose Materials

With money scarce during the great depression, most people tried to figure out ways to repurpose items they already owned, rather than tossing them aside.  

We can easily repurpose as well!  Here are a few suggestions of things in your home you can repurpose to use again:

  • Empty Milk Carton:  Clean out your milk cartons and reuse them to store water or as a mini garden greenhouse.
  • Egg Cartons:  Egg cartons are easy to repurpose as a planter for starting seeds, or as a way to organize beads or any other small items in the home.
  • Toilet Paper Rolls:  Toilet paper rolls make great crafts!  Check out these easy toilet paper roll crafts for some great ideas.
  • Glass/Plastic Containers:  Reuse your sour cream containers, mayo jars, and everything else in between for storing small objects.
  • Grocery Bags:  Turn your plastic grocery bags into trash liners for the small trash cans in your restroom.
  • Clothing/Bedding:  Don’t let your worn clothing or bedding to go to waste.  All you have to do is cut the cloth into small pieces and use them for rags!

3.  Eat At Home

Families rarely, if ever, went out to eat during the depression.  Money was just to tight to spend it on a night out.  Every meal was spent together, at home, enjoying food made from scratch. 

Cooking at home will make a huge difference in your budget each month.  Make sure to check out some of my quick, family friendly dinner ideas here.

 

4.  Trade Skills

Another common frugal living tip from the great depression is to trade skills with each other.  During the depression era, neighbors, friends and acquaintances were often bartering their skills with each other in an attempt to save money.

We can still follow this example today.  If you are great at photography, you could offer to take your neighbors pictures and in return they could donate a service to you, like teaching your kids a musical instrument, cutting your hair, or anything else you need that they can do.

5.  Make Do With What You Have

Something breaks? You don’t have the exact ingredient that you need?  Make it do!

If you can be content with what you already have, you will be much more likely to make it do, rather than spending on the “next big thing!”  I have two personal examples for you.

Example 1:

We spent years watching “everyone” around us switching from flip phones to smart phones. I would be asked regularly why I still used such an “old fashioned phone”. My answer? “Because this one still works fine.”

Of course I would have RATHER of been using a flashy smart phone with all those cool apps and emojis….but I was on a small budget, so the flip phone was all I needed.

Now, I’m not saying that you should get rid of your smart phones. What I am SAYING is that I want you tostart looking at what you have in your home differently.

Example 2:

Last year we wanted to update my 13 year olds bedroom, to give her more of a teenage room, and less of a young girl room. She had requested more coral and less yellow.

Our goal was to only use what we already had around the house all while giving her room a completely new look.

We made a tassel garland out of scrap fabric. She searched through old decorations that we had put in the storage room to find pieces she liked. We decided to paint over a yellow sign, but didn’t have any coral paint. So, we mixed pink with orange and came up with the perfect coral color.

Long story short: we MADE IT WORK! And, she now has a teenage room that she loves.

5 Ways to Make It Do

  1. Take good care of what you already own. Make rules like no shoes in the house, no jumping on the furniture, etc.
  2. Rearrange your furniture for a new look. Swap decor amongst different rooms to switch things up!
  3. Set a grocery budget and stick to it, no matter what. Make whatever you have in your pantry and fridge last for as long as you need to. 
  4. Keep your electronics in good condition and use them until they break, even if they are old and uncool.
  5. Stretch your meat further by using 1/2 the meat called in your recipe and substituting it with beans.

6.  Learn How To Sew

Sewing clothes was very common during the depression.  While, I’m not suggesting you need to start making all of your own clothes, I do recommend that everyone learns a few basic sewing skills.

Being able to sew on a button, hem a dress, or mend a rip will save you a lot of money and help you prevent waste.

7.  Have Fun For Free

I am so passionate about the ability to enjoy life, have fun, and make memories without spending any money.  Our great grandparents were excellent at this skill!

Here are a few ways you can have fun for free:

  • Play games (we love fish bowl)
  • Go for a walk
  • Read books from the library
  • Listen to music

Remember to be creative when trying to find cheap fun.  It’s out there!

8.  Hang Your Laundry To Dry

You will save a lot of money on electricity just by simply using your dryer less and hanging your clothes to dry instead.  An outdoor clothes line is the most traditional method to drying clothes.  However, you could also dry them in your house.  I really like this foldable laundry rack and I personally have this wall mounted drying rack in my laundry room.  It works great during the cold winter months.

9.  Learn To DIY

Another way to a lot of money is by learning to DIY.

I know the phrase DIY brings out a lot of different feelings to different people. Some feel excited and motivated (yay! hand me a hammer, I’ll show you how it’s done!). Others might feel a sense of panic and worry (what!?!? I’m not handy….I don’t know how to DIY!).

Do you WANT to learn more DIY but feel stuck or confused about where to start??? I understand! And guess what, learning to DIY is actually incredibly easy!

All it takes is a quick search on google, and a few minutes reading blog tutorials and watching YouTube videos.  That’s really it! It’s exactly how my husband and I have been able to successfully complete dozens of our very DIY projects.

Start small, go slow, and ask questions. You just might surprise yourself with a few new talents and a big savings in your budget.

10.  Grow Your Own Food

During the great depression it was common for everyone to have large gardens.  Not only was it necessary to grow your own food, it was also the way of life.

I believe that it is just as important to grow our own food today as it was back then.

We don’t have any control over grocery prices (and they just keeeeep on raising), so the more we can do to save money in the kitchen- the better!

If gardening scares you, don’t worry!  You don’t need to grow a lot of food to begin saving money.  Even a small window garden will help you lower grocery costs.  Here are a few of the easiest things to grow in your first garden.

11.  Preserve Garden Produce

Speaking of growing your own food, it’s equally important to understand how to preserve the food that you grow.  A freezer/pantry full of preserved garden produce is one of the best ways to save money all year long.

I taught myself everything that I know about canning and preserving using the Ball Book Of Canning and Preserving.  It is an amazing guide and resource and recommend it to everyone!

 

While you will need to spend money to buy canning supplies, this initial investment has paid off over and over for my family.

12.  Save Leftovers

I have to admit something to you.  I use to throw away all of my leftovers…..every last crumb.  When I first started dating my husband he would watch me in complete disbelief as I chucked my uneaten food down the drain.  “I don’t like leftovers,” I would casually say to him.

Well, I have learned a lot since then….much to the example of my husband.

Now, when I see leftovers I see the money that I spent buying that food…..and there is no way I am going to throw my hard earned money down the drain.

Be like new me, not old me and save your leftovers to use again!  

Leftovers can be:

I also love to freeze a lot of my leftovers in an ice cube tray for easy use later.  Try it!

13.  Cook From Scratch

Our great grandparents cooked almost everything they ate from scratch.  They avoided buying preprepared foods as much as possible, because they knew that they could make it for much less money.

We can follow this example by making our own bread, enchilada sauce, taco seasoning, salad dressing, granola, pizza, lasagna, pancakes, tortillas, yogurt, coutons, muffins, BBQ sauce, and so much more!  The list is never ending.

If cooking is not something you feel comfortable and confident with, then start small.  Making pancakes in the morning is really easy!  Then work up to more difficult things….like baking bread.  

Also, keep in mind that you do not have to make every single thing from scratch to save money.  Choose a few staples you like to make, and be consistent with them.  Every little bit of frugal living will add up and save you money.

14.  Stretch Your Meals

Another important frugal living tip from the great depression is to be intentional about stretching your meals.  Sometimes all it takes is adding a can of beans to make one meal turn into two meals.  

Using simple methods to stretch your meals is a great way to cut your grocery costs.  Click here for more easy to follow tips to help your meals stretch further.

15.  Be Your Own Handyman

Skip hiring someone to do simple repairs and household maintenance.  Watch a few YouTube channels and learn how to fix it yourself!

Keep in mind that you won’t save money if the repair is done wrong, in those circumstances you might end up having to pay more to get it fixed.  So, do thorough research before starting any repairs/home maintenance yourself.

Here are a few fairly easy household maintenance ideas that I think *most* people can easily do themselves:

  • Paint walls
  • Patch drywall holes
  • Unclog drains
  • Change oil in car
  • Fertilize yard

The next time you are tempted to call a handyman, pause and ask yourself if this is something you can learn to fix yourself!  I bet you can!

16.  Give Something Homemade

During the great depression, most people didn’t have any extra money to spend on birthday or holiday gifts.  So, they made most of the gifts they gave to others.  I truly believe it is the thought behind a gift that means the most….and homemade gifts are my favorite because they take a lot of thought, time and love.

Check out this list of homemade Christmas gift ideas to help you get started!

17.  Ignore Fads

Our grandparents knew to ignore any trends/fads that would cause them to spend unnecessarily.  The fads come and go, and once they are gone all you’ll be left with is a pile of stuff you don’t need anymore and less money in your bank account (anyone remember the Beanie Baby era???).

Be mindful when you are spending your money and ask yourself if you are buying something just because everyone else is buying it….or if it’s something you will actually use, love and value for years to come.

 

 

18.  Use Electricity Sparingly

Did anyone else grow up with parents who were constantly reminding them to turn off the light???  It wasn’t just me was it????

Our parents learned from their parents that the more electricity you use, the more money you will spend.

Turning off unused lights is one way to conserve electricity.  You can also:

  • Unplug appliances when not in use
  • Use LED lightbulbs
  • Lower your thermostat
  • Seal leaks around windows and doors

There are so many ways to save money simply by changing the way you use electricity.  For more ideas check out these two articles:  How To Save Money On Electricity During Winter and How To Save Money On Electricity During Summer.

19.  Use It up

During the depression families learned to use everything up, rather than letting it go to waste.  If they had a small amount of ketchup left in the bottle, they would use a small spatula or knife to get it out and use it.

Be mindful of not throwing away small amounts of condiments, shampoo, soap, milk, etc.  Find ways to open up the container and use every last drop.

20.  Avoid Disposable Products

Disposable products have become more popular over the years, but they are not great for the wallet (or the environment!).

Try to buy products that can be used over and over again and skip purchasing anything that only has a one time use. 

A few examples of this are to buy:

  • Hand towels instead of paper towels
  • Tupperware instead of sandwich bags
  • Dishes instead of paper plates

You will have to spend slightly more money to begin with….but it will save you big over time.

21.  Forage

Yes!  You read that right, foraging is a great way to save money on food.  And, it’s actually really fun too!

Scout out areas in your community or nearby that has wild berries or other plants growing and go forage.  Every summer my family drives to a nearby spot and spends a day picking huckleberries.  We freeze these huckleberries and use them all year.  

22.  Turn Off The Air Conditioner

I know this is a tough one….but most homes did not have air conditioners during the depression years….and they survived.  I’m sure it wasn’t easy…but they survived.

Try to keep cool instead by using fans, sitting outside in the shade, using cool washcloths, and keeping blinds closed during the hot part of the day.

If turning the air conditioner off completely feels to much for you, then try to increase the thermostat a few degrees so that you are using it less often.

23.  Conserve Water

And my last frugal living tip from the great depression is to conserve water.  You can conserve water by:

  • Wearing clothes multiple days (as long as they are clean!)
  • Follow the mantra:  “If it’s yellow let it mellow, if it’s brown flush it down.”
  • Brush your teeth in the shower
  • Take short showers
  • Fix leaky faucets

Sometimes all it takes is a few simple changes to start saving money.

In Conclusion

Who’s ready to implement these frugal tips from the great depression!  I know I am!  Pick one or two new money saving tips to start saving more money today.

 

Related Articles:

How To Live Frugally

Things Frugal People Dont Do

Free Self Care Ideas

 

Pin For Future Reference:

great depression frugal tips to save money - easy ways to save more money

easy money saving tips - frugal tips from grandmas

I hope these frugal tips from the great depression help you save more money.

Purpose of a Budget…and why you need one!

By: Sweet Frugal Lifecomment

All of the reasons you should make a budget.

If you’ve been following here for a while you know that I preach budgeting to everyone and anyone who will listen!  I truly believe that every single person should have a budget, regardless of how much or how little money you earn.  Not sure what the purpose of a budget is???  Well I’ll tell you today, so keep reading!

reasons to budget - why you should make a budget

Sweet Frugal Life is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

The Purpose Of Budgeting

I’ll be honest with you….years ago I did not believe in budgeting.  I felt like it was something that was only for families that were pinching pennies….and my family seemed to be getting by just fine without a budget.

But then my entire thought process changed after I randomly picked up Dave Ramsey’s Total Money Makeover in the library one day.  This book opened my eyes to how our finances could be, if we only adjusted some of our habits….so we started budgeting.

It honestly took about 5 years of trying, failing, giving up, trying again, etc. until we got to a comfortable/confident place when it comes to the budget.

One of the things I learned through this experience is just how much a budget can change your finances.  Before we started budgeting, I really thought that we were fine the way we were spending, but once I had that budget to hold me accountable we were able to find so much extra money….and instead of spending that money on stuff (like the pre budget days) we were able to spend it on things that were much more important to us, like travel, retirement, saving for a car, etc.

If I can change my stubborn ways, anyone can!

1.  A Budget Prevents Overspending

One of the most important purposes of a budget is that it prevents overspending.

If you take the time to make a budget and give every dollar a job, a category, then you will be much less likely to impulse shop and buy things just because they caught your eye (may or may not be talking about myself here….).

Try to get into the habit of checking in with your budget daily.  This daily check in is so important to make sure you are staying on track, and to remind yourself of your money goals.

The days I don’t check in with my budget are the days I tend to impulse buy, because I convince myself we have enough money in the budget.  However, if I take the time to look at the budget then I am more aware of my spending and am able to control my overspending impulses.

2.  Budgeting Reduces Stress

It’s true!  A budget can/will ease your financial worries resulting in a less stressful life.  If you are budgeting with sinking funds (which I recommend!) then you will always be prepared for what’s to come, resulting in less stress.

For example, every year I make a sinking fund for Christmas expenses.  I save into that sinking fund with each paycheck, then when the holidays come along I can buy Christmas presents, Christmas decor, and any other items I need/want for the holidays using the money I have already saved, which completely eliminates financial stress during the Christmas season!

3.  A Budget Helps You Reach Your Goals

Another important purpose of a budget is that it will help you reach your money and savings goals. 

Want to save for a vacation, but money keeps flying out the window???  Make a budget!  Calculate how much you are spending in each area, look at the ways you can cut those costs, and then budget a sinking fund for vacation!  Yay!

Yes, making a budget and cutting expenses will require some sacrifice on your part, but with consistency you will be able to reach those important goals. Budgeting has a way of helping you focus on your priorities.

4.  Budgeting Helps You Spend Money Guilt Free

Most of us like to spend money….but we don’t like the guilt that often comes after spending money.  And this is exactly why I love a budget!  A budget gives you permission to spend money, guilt free!

Don’t believe me yet?  Check out these two scenarios:

Scenario A:

Allie wants new living room furniture.  She has her eye on a couch at a local furniture store and notices it goes on sale one weekend.  Allie excitedly runs to the furniture store to buy the couch.

She doesn’t have enough money to pay for the couch in full, but the store offers her to make monthly payments for a year to be able to buy it.  Allie buys the couch and has it delivered.

The monthly couch bill begins arriving and Allie starts to panic.  She didn’t realize how tight the monthly payments would make her finances.  The stress of paying this bill, along with all of her other expenses begins to set in and she feels guilty for making this purchase in the first place.  She realizes she acted on impulse, and doesn’t quit have the funds available.

Scenario B:

Brooke also wants new living room furniture.  She looks at a few different pieces of furniture at multiple stores and writes down their averages prices.  Brooke then makes a sinking fund category in her budget to help her slowly save the money she needs to buy her new couch.

Over the course of 6 months Brooke deposits money into that sinking fund, using her budget.  After 6 months her sinking fund is fully funded and she excitedly goes into the furniture store to purchase her new couch.  She is so excited to purchase the couch with cash, and pay in full.

The couch is delivered and Brooke is able to enjoy it for many years.  Brooke has zero guilt about this purchase because she knew she already had the money saved in her budget, and there are no surprise bills.

Do you notice in these two scenarios how they both have the same goal, and they both were able to achieve that goal, but one came with guilt and stress, and the other only came with joy??  A budget is so freeing!

5.  A Budget Helps You Get Out Of Debt And Stay Out Of Debt

One of my favorite things about my little ol blog is getting to cheer you on as you reach your debt freedom goals.  There is nothing I love more than receiving a message from a reader telling me how proud they are of themselves for being able to pay off their debt thanks to making a budget.

Budgeting helps you plan your finances in a way that makes debt pay off a priority.  Being mindful of your spending, and prioritizing how each paycheck is spent is one of the most important steps to paying off debt. 

If you are wanting to pay off debt, I recommend making a budget and also reading my article How To Pay Off Debt With The Debt Snowball.

6.  Budgeting Helps You Understand Your Spending Habits

One of the most important parts of frugal living is being able to understand your spending habits, and a budget will show you exactly how you spend your money; including the good and the bad.  

When you sit down to budget each week you will be forced to see the categories you consistently overspend in.  Having this knowledge will give you the tools and motivation you need to reduce your spending in these areas.

When I first started budgeting I had convinced myself I was spending a certain amount of money on groceries each week.  But, after making a budget, I realized the cold hard truth.  I was spending so much more than I had realized.  Once I knew that this was a category I was overspending in, I was able to teach myself some new skills to reduce our grocery spending.

7.  A Budget Gives You Control Over Your Money

Do you ever get to the end of the month (or week) and wonder, “What happened to my huge paycheck I just got???  Where did all of my hard earned money go so quickly”?

I’ve had that thought, and it’s not a great feeling!

Do you want to know what my solution was?  Yep!  You guessed it, I needed to make a budget.

A big purpose of a budget is to help you have more control over your money, so that you don’t have to wonder where it all went at the end of each month.  You’ll know exactly where every dollar was spent, because you made a plan for those dollars and you stuck to the plan.

Want To Start Budgeting?

Have I convinced you yet that a budget is life changing (cause it totally is!).  

If you are ready to make the jump into budgeting, but aren’t sure how to start…..don’t worry!  I have you covered!  First, I recommend you check out my full budgeting tutorial here:  Zero Based Budget.

And then download my free budgeting cheat sheets.  They will walk you through everything you need to know to be able to make your first budget.  You got this!!!

 

 

Related Articles:

7 Simple Ways To Get Your Budget Back On Track (for good this time!)

How To Find Extra Money In Your Budget

Tips For Budgeting As A Couple

 

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purposes of a budget - why you need a budget

 

Now you know the purpose of a budget!

How To Earn Free Amazon Gift Cards

By: Sweet Frugal Lifecomment

Easy Ways To Get Free Amazon Gift Cards

I’ve been finishing up the last of my Christmas shopping the past few days.  And as I’ve been shopping I’ve been so grateful for all of my free Amazon gift cards I’ve been saving up during the year.  They help make Christmas much more affordable!

I get asked a lot about how to earn free amazon gift cards, and I decided it was time to share all of my favorite ways!  These hacks won’t make you rich, but they will help ease some of the financial burden you may feel.

Personally, I save up my Amazon gift cards all year to use for Christmas.  But, you could also use them to help pay for birthday presents, household expenses, back to school supplies, sports equipment, and everything in between!  

Sweet Frugal Life is a member of online affiliate programs.  I will be compensated for purchases and clicks made from links in this post.

“We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.”

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Earning Amazon Gift Cards

Before we get into how to earn free gift cards, let’s discuss a few of the most commonly asked questions.  Because if other people have asked me these questions….then I’m assuming you are wondering the same thing!

Can you actually get free Amazon gift cards?

Yes!  You can!  I know that there are a lot of scams and to good to be true deals out there.  But, the hacks I’m sharing with you today are all totally 100% legit.  I’ve earned Amazon gift cards using each of these methods and can vouch that they work and are safe!

Does it take a long time to earn a gift card?

This really depends on which method you are using, and how often you are using it.  Taking surveys through Swagbucks or Pinecone will probably help you earn gift cards faster then the reward apps.  However, it can take a while to earn a significant amount of gift cards cash.  Remember that slow and steady wins the race!

How do I redeem my gift cards?

When you have enough points to cash out for a gift card all you will need to do is select an Amazon gift card from the reward section of each of these apps/websites.

You will then be given a 14 digit code.  To redeem the code simply log into your Amazon account, and click on Gift Cards.  You will then enter the gift card code.  The money will now be available to credit to your next Amazon purchase!  So easy!

Ways To Earn Amazon Gift Cards

There are many easy ways to get free Amazon gift cards!  I like to use a mix of options to help the savings add up quickly!  Here are a few of my favorite methods.

1.  Swagbucks

Swagbucks was the very first rewards website I ever signed up for many many years ago.  They offer many different options to help you get Amazon gift cards.  You can earn points, called Swagbucks, for watching videos, taking surveys, searching the internet, shopping online, and so much more!  You can then redeem these points for gift cards to Amazon.

Sign up for Swagbucks here and get a $10 bonus!

2.  Survey Junkie

Another great way to easily earn free Amazon gift cards is to take surveys using survey junkie.  It’s so easy to do!  Just sign up for survey junkie here and fill out a profile to have surveys matched to your interests.

You will then be offered surveys to complete.  This is the perfect activity for when you are standing in line, watching TV, or have some time to kill.  Each survey takes about 15 minutes to complete and pay on average around $1-$3.

Each of your completed surveys will earn you points, these points can then be redeemed for Amazon gift cards.

3.  Upside

Do you fill your car up with gasoline???  Then you should be using the Upside app!

Upside gives you cash back, which can be redeemed for Amazon gift cards, at participating gas stations.  Most days I am able to get 5-20 cents cashback per gallon, but if you sign up using this link and use coupon code AFF25 then you will get a bonus 25 cents cashback per gallon!

Make sure to read my full honest review of the Upside app here.

4.  Pinecone Research

I recently started taking surveys on Pinecone Research and have loved everything about it.  It’s definitely my favorite survey website.

After registering on the Pinecone website you will begin to receive emails inviting you to complete surveys.  The surveys are fairly easy to fill out and take about 10-15 minutes to complete.

You will be paid $3 for each completed survey which can be redeemed for Amazon gift cards.

5.  Ibotta

There are so many cashback apps that will reward you with free Amazon gift cards.  The app that I’ve been using the longest is Ibotta.  

Ibotta offers a huge selection of rebates.  I have earned cash back on a wide selection of products, including milk, apples, pantry staples, broccoli, beauty and household items.

One of my favorite things about Ibotta though is that they offer cash back on what they call “any brand” items.  For example, today they are having rebates on any brand of yogurt or diapers that you buy.  So you can buy your favorite brand, and get some money back at the same time.

Plus, they always offer a small cash back on “any item.”  So, I can buy anything in the store, and earn some money back.

Ibotta is super easy to use!

  • Just shop like you normally would.
  • Check the app for any rebates you earned.
  • Click on the qualifying items you purchased.
  • Scan your receipt.
  • Your cash back is instantly put into your Ibotta account.  Easy Peasy!

You can request your cash once you reach $20.  I usually get it deposited into my paypal account or redeem it for an Amazon gift card.

6.  Fetch Rewards

Probably the easiest app for earning Amazon gift cards is Fetch Rewards.   This app rewards you with points when you scan your gift cards, and then you can redeem the points for gift cards to places like Amazon, Target, Sephora, Best Buy, restaurants, and more! 

How it works:

  • Download the free Fetch Rewards app
  • Grocery shop like you normally do
  • Scan your receipt into the Fetch Rewards app
  • You will automatically be rewarded points based on what you bought.

One of the best things about Fetch Rewards is that you can start redeeming your Amazon gift cards at only $3, and it is so easy to earn that first $3.

7.  Discover Card

Another easy way to get free Amazon gift cards is to use a Discover credit card.  With each purchase made on a Discover card you will earn cashback.  You can redeem the cashback as credit on your card, or you can use it to purchase items from Amazon. We allow this cashback to accumulate throughout the year and only use it to help us pay for Christmas.

  • BONUS!  You can get a $50 bonus when you sign up for a Discover Card and make your first purchase within 3 months.  Just make sure you pay it off monthly!

 

In Conclusion

Now that you know how to earn free Amazon gift cards, it’s time to start earning!  There are so many things you could do with some extra Amazon cash!

 

Related Articles:

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7 Simple Ways To Get Your Budget Back On Track (for good this time!)

By: Sweet Frugal Lifecomment

How to fix a broken budget.

Struggling with a broken budget???  We have all been there, and I’ve definitely been there more times then I would like to admit!  It might have happened because we gave into spending temptations to many times, or perhaps we let lifestyle creep sneak in.  Or, there could have been a lot of unexpected expenses arise.  There are so many reasons why we go over budget, it happens to everyone!  Going over budget is normal, not great, but normal….but only if it happens occasionally.  If you are looking for ways to fix a broken budget, I’ve got you covered!  Keep reading for 7 simple ways to get your budget back on track (for good this time!).

how to get your budget back on track - how to fix a broken budget

How To Get Your Budget Back On Track

It is possible to fix a broken budget!  Follow the steps below to get your budget back on track once and for all!

1.  Stop Unnecessary Spending

The first step you need to take to get your budget back on track is to put a pause on all unnecessary spending.  This doesn’t mean you cant pay your bills or buy food.  It means that you will only spend money on things that are necessary for living.  But, things like entertainment. going out to eat, home decor, etc. should be completely stopped.

There are so many ways to enjoy life, without having to spend money.  Try a few new easy recipes at home, enjoy some at home date nights, and be creative about finding things for free!

2.  Track Your Spending

If you aren’t already tracking your spending, now is the time to start!  Tracking your spending is one of the most important (but easily skipped) steps to fixing a broken budget.  Writing down every purchase that you make will hold you accountable to your purchases, making it much less likely for you to impulse shop.  

I recommend taking time every single day to write down what you bought that day.  Then compare your purchases to your budget to make sure you are staying within your goals.

3.  Use Cash Envelopes

Anything thing that really helps me fix a broken budget is to start using cash envelopes.  The cash envelope system is really fairly easy to use!

First, look through your budget to determine the amount of cash you have left to spend for the rest of the month.

Next, you will need to go to the bank and take out that exact amount of cash out of the bank.  Divide the cash into different envelope categories.  Once your envelope is empty, you literally can not buy anything else (no cheating!).  I explain more about how cash envelopes here.

And, yes, you CAN use cash envelopes for online purchases!  I explain exactly how to do so in the video below!

 

4.  Give Yourself A Reward

I’ll let you in on a little secret about me…..I love to reward myself!  It motivates me to work hard and reach my goal.  Whenever I start struggling with my budget, I set up a reward system to help me stay focused on my money goals.

Choose your reward by thinking of something fun, but frugal, that you would enjoy getting.  I love to reward myself with a treat from my favorite pastry shop or by buying myself a new small piece of jewelry.

Set up your reward system in a way that will help you get back on track with your budget.  For example, if you go 10 days without splurging on any unnecessary spending, then you can treat yourself to your small reward.

5.  Return Recent Purchases You Don’t Need

Do you have any recent purchases that you regret buying?  Or perhaps that you don’t regret, but know deep down it wasn’t the best decision to buy?  Return these items to the store ASAP!  This is the quickest and easiest way to fix a broken budget caused by impulse spending.

6.  Sell Clutter In Your Home

Another option for getting more money back in your pocket is to sell clutter around your house that you don’t need or use!  My rule of thumb is that if I haven’t touched it for a few months, it needs to go!

Use the money you earn from selling your clutter to get your budget back on track, don’t spend it on something frivolous, put it to use in a budget category that needs it.

7.  Use An Accountability Partner

One of the best ways to get back on track with your budget is to find an accountability partner to help you reach your goals.  An accountability partner could be your spouse, a friend or everything in between.  Ask the person you choose if they will help hold you accountable to your money goals.  Share with them your desire to fix your budget and what you need to do to get there.

As you go about your day to day routine, make sure to check in with your accountability partner regularly.  Make sure to always call this person to help you when you get the urge to spend, they can talk you through your spending choices to help you make the one that will help your budget best!

8.  Focus On Your Goals

The most important things to remember is to stay focused on your goals.  Set a goal of where you want your budget to be, write it down and then hang it up somewhere so that you can see it regularly.  A bathroom mirror or phone lock screen are great options for this!

When you stay focused on your BIG goals, it’s easier to say “no” to the temptations that come along.

You Got This!

Please don’t beat yourself up for getting off of your budget.  Like I mentioned earlier, it DOES happen, and there IS hope for fixing it.  The fact that you are reading this article shows me that you want to stick to your budget and make it work.  

I know that through a little bit of work, some sacrifice and following these steps you can fix your broken budget!

 

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Best Side Hustles For Stay At Home Moms

By: Sweet Frugal Lifecomment

How to earn money from home!

I have been so lucky to have been able to spend the past 16 years at home with my kids.  Being a stay at home mom is a job I always dreamed of, and I am definitely living my dream!  But, as my kids have grown older and I have had more free time, I have been looking for ways to earn a little extra income, without having to give up my time with my kids.  If you are in a similar situation at me, wanting to stay home with your kids, but are also wondering how to earn money from home, this article is for you!  I brainstormed a list of the best side hustles for stay at home moms, and I hope they help!

The best thing about this list is that these jobs are for anyone who wants to work part time out of their home.  Many of these can be done in the evenings or on weekends while you are still working a full time job.

This article contains affiliate links.  I will receive a commission off of purchases made through my links.

1.  Clean Businesses or Homes

A great way to make money as a stay at home mom is to hire yourself out to clean local businesses or homes.  Many businesses will need to be cleaned after office hours, which is perfect for stay at home moms because this mean you might be able to leave your kids at home with your husband once he gets home from work while you go clean.  This is also a good option for those needing to earn money after their day job is done.

You can easily market yourself on Facebook Marketplace, just post in a local group that you are available to clean and when.  There are also a few cleaning companies you could call and ask if they are needing another cleaner.

This is actually my side hustle.  I have been cleaning two AirBnb Rentals for the past year and actually really enjoy it!

I stick my earbuds in, listen to my favorite podcasts or a new book and clean away.  It’s good money and fairly easy work.  I’ve also been given permission to bring my kids with me, so I give them little jobs to help with and pay them for their help!  It’s been a great experience for all of us!

2.  Ebay Reseller

Do you like to thrift shop???  Why not turn that hobby into a part time job?  Look for brand name items at local thrift stores or garage sales and resell them on ebay.

Before buying anything remember to do a quick check on eBay to see how much money similar items are selling for, this should give you an idea of what is a good buy or not.

I’ve sold items here and there on eBay, but never consistently.  If you are interested in learning more, I found a fantastic article that can help get you started!

3.  AirBnb Hosting

I first learned about AirBnb Hosting from the lovely Jamie at Fly By The Seat of Our Pants.  Her family travels constantly, and they have learned to rent out their home using AirBnb while they are on vacation!  This has given them the ability to EARN money while they are on vacation!  I mean seriously, can it get any better than that????

I’ll be honest, when I first heard Jamie talk about letting strangers come stay at their house while they go on vacation, I was not on board.  But, the more I have learned from her, the more that I can see it is in fact a GREAT way to earn an extra income.  If you’re like me and have questions about how she makes it all work, check out her post Secrets of an AirBnb Host-FAQ of Renting our Home. She explains it all so well!

 

4.  VIP Kid

VIP Kid is currently one of the most popular work from home jobs, and for good reason!  The company is super easy to work with and hires most of their applicants!

This job sounds so fun because you get to sit at your computer while teaching English to kids in China!  If you are a teacher at heart, this is the job for you.

The best part is that all of the work is already done for you!  The lesson plans are all prepared, your job is just to teach it!

They do require you have some experience working with kids and a bachelors degree.  But!  It doesn’t matter what your degree is in!  (whoo!)

5.  Babysit Kids in Your Home

If you are already at home taking care of your own kids, why not offer to babysit a few other kids.  This is an easy way to earn an extra income, while doing what you would be doing anyways!

If a full time daycare feels like to much, consider just watching one child a couple of times a week.  I constantly see posts on Facebook Marketplace of parents wanting to find a part time sitter for their child.  Check there first!

6.  Blogging

Hello blogging! I fell in love with blogging last year when I decided, completely on a whim, to start this little blog.  I’ve always had a love of writing and being able to do that while being a full time stay at home mom felt like the perfect fit.

I’ve learned a lot over the past year and made a lot of mistakes at the same time.  But, you know what.  All of the ups and downs have been so worth it!  I love getting to do what I love from the comfort of my home.

Feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions about getting started blogging!  It’s a long road, made much easier with a support system.

7.  Open an Etsy Shop

Do you love to craft or create?  Consider opening an Etsy shop to sell your handmade items.  We all have the ability to create something to share with the world.

Maybe your shop would be crafts, or jewelry.  It might even be graphic design or printables….the sky is the limit!  Spend a few minutes searching through Etsy to get some ideas for your own shop.

8.  Teach a Service

Do you have a skill you could teach to others?  I bet you do!

A few years ago I was a piano teacher (until I retired for personal reasons).  I loved having the ability to pick my own schedule and teach right out of my home.

What skills could you teach to others?  Maybe you could teach music, sewing, gardening, art, or cooking.

It would be fun to create a summer camp and focus on teaching for a few weeks straight if you don’t want to commit to something long term.

You could even teach through Zoom, Skype, etc.

9.  Photography

Do you like to take pictures?  Why don’t you turn it into a business!  All of the photographers I use are stay at home moms, and they are fantastic!

This side hustle will require some upfront costs as you invest in a camera and possibly some equipment.  But, it might be worth it if this is something you feel passionate about.

Do some research online and learn about what it takes to start a photography business to help you decide if this is the right fit for you or not.

10.  Refurbish Old Furniture

Refurbishing old furniture might feel a little daunting at first, but once you get going with it it’s actually really not that hard!!

Search thrift stores, estate sales and garage sales for old furniture and when you find a cheap price on a nice piece, snatch it up.

The trick is to look for the POTENTIAL!  Try to see beyond the yellow oak stain, the scratches and nicks and imagine the beauty the furniture could be.  Be sure to BARTER if you’re at a garage sale (always).

You can find hundreds of YouTube video tutorials all about how to refurbish old furniture!

Once you’re done fixing it up, list the item for sale, Facebook Marketplace works great, and enjoy the profit you’ll make!

I actually LOVE buying from people who have fixed up old furniture.  I love the look of it, but don’t like putting in the work.  So, you never know….I just might be your first customer!  😉

11.  Become a Virtual Assistant

Becoming a virtual assistant is easy!  All you need is motivation and a computer!  Virtual assistants work from home while assisting companies with social media, blogging, editing, e-mailing and more.

This job is wide open to whatever the company needs from you to keep their business thriving.  I have heard SO many good things about being a virtual assistant, and have considered it myself!

If you are interested in becoming a virtual assistant, I recommend joining a few Virtual Assistant Facebook groups.  These will be a great resource for you to ask questions and network.

12.  Tutoring

There have been times (actually many, many times) when I would be willing to PAY someone to help my daughter with her math homework.  I just don’t do math!

If I knew of a stay at home mom who would be willing to tutor my daughter in this subject, that is a fee I would be willing to pay!  If you enjoy working with others and feel confident in a specific subject, this is a great way to earn extra money from home.

Consider signing up through a tutoring company, or hire yourself out online.  This is a great job for setting your own hours!

In Conclusion

I truly believe that with the technology we have there are so many side hustles for stay at home moms, or anyone wanting to earn an extra income from home.  Do some research, find the right fit for you and your personality, and then get started making money!

Let me know if you have any questions, I am here to help!

 

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How To Stop Emotional Shopping

By: Sweet Frugal Lifecomment

9 Ways To Stop Spending Money When Life Is Getting Hard.

We’ve all been there.  We had a hard day at work.  Life is feeling stressful.  We are looking for something, anything to take our minds off of the worries of the world.  Soooo….we turn to shopping.  Anyone else see themselves in this scenario???  Just me???  It has taken me years to learn how to stop emotional shopping, and now I get to share what I have learned with you.

If you are unsure if you are an emotional spender or not, take a quick look at the list below.

You Might Be An Emotional Spender If….

  • You shop because you are bored.
  • Spending makes you feel fulfilled.
  • You feel guilty after shopping.
  • Shopping makes you feel happier.
  • You go over budget regularly.
  • You hide purchases from family members.

Do any of these sound like you??  Well, the good news is that you can kick this bad habit to the curb.  Today I am sharing how to stop emotional shopping!

stop emotional shopping - how to stop impulse spending

How You Can Stop Spending Money When Life Gets Stressful

Try one of these tips below to stop emotional spending.  I hope they help you like they have helped me!

1.  Identify Emotional Spending Triggers.

The first step to stop emotional spending is to find out what emotions are causing you to shop.  Once you can pin point the exact emotion, you will be closer to overcoming it.

The easiest way to identify your emotional spending is to pay attention to the feelings you have while shopping.  Are you shopping after a disagreement?  Do you feel jealous of someone and are trying to buy items to keep up?

Take notes of the feelings you find.  Write these down and start paying attention to the actions that follow each of the emotions.  When you find yourself at the store after feeling one of the emotions that you wrote down, stop yourself.  Remind yourself that what you are feeling will not be cured from spending.

2.  Shop With Cash

My number one secret to avoiding impulse shopping is to leave your debit card at home and shop with cash envelopes instead.  If the cash is gone, you can’t buy anything, problem solved.  The visual of using envelopes can make a big difference when it comes to impulse spending.

Cash envelopes can really help with emotional spending as well.  When the emotions start coming you might find yourself tempted to start shopping, however, if your debit card is stashed away and your cash is gone….you will have no money to spend!  Try it!!

3.  Stick to the List

Start getting into the habit of  making a shopping list.  If you shop with a list you will be much less likely to impulse buy other items.

The next time you want to go shopping, stop yourself first and make a list.  Write down exactly what you need to buy (need is the key word here).

Commit to only buying what is on the list and nothing else.  If you are feeling emotional this might be difficult to do, but stay strong.  Promise yourself a reward (free reward) if you can stick to your list all month.

4.  Find a New Coping Mechanism

We already identified your emotional spending triggers in step 1, now it’s time to find new ways to cope with these feelings.

If you are shopping because you are bored…..find a new hobby.  Something that will keep your mind stimulated and busy.  Maybe this could even be a hobby that will earn you money with these side hustle ideas.

Or maybe you shop when you are feeling a lot of stress?  Find a new stress reliever.  This might be exercising or a warm bubble bath.  Substituting a new stress reliever is a great way to stop shopping when stressed.

It doesn’t matter what you choose to help you cope, as long as you are finding something that doesn’t involve spending money.

5.  Make it Hard to Spend

Stores are really great at making it easy for us as consumers to spend money, which is great…..except for if you have a spending problem!  Another way to learn how to stop emotional shopping is to follow a few of these easy steps below to make it harder on yourself to spend money.

  • Leave the Debit/Credit Cards at home.

Just don’t even bring your cards with you.  If they are at home, you can’t use them….making spending much harder!

  • Delete Debit/Credit card info from store websites.

Take all of your saved credit or debit card info off of store websites.  Having to manually enter in the information each time you want to make a purchase gives you that extra moment to pause and decide if you truly need to buy it.

  • Keep your savings in a separate bank.

Transfer your money into a separate account or bank and make it harder to touch.  Keep your budgeted spending money in your checking account, while putting the savings and sinking funds into an account that is not connected to your debit card.  This makes getting the money out that much harder.

6.  Unsubscribe from Store Email Lists

There was a time when my email inbox was full of “50% off at this store” ads.  These sales were a huge spending trigger for me.  Especially during times when I was bored.  I would often find myself spending hours browsing this sale and that sale and before I knew it I had spent to much.

The solution?  I started unsubscribing from every store email I received.  It was no longer in my face tempting me during my boredom moments.

If you find yourself consistently spending through these sales emails….try unsubscribing.  It is so freeing!  If you don’t know the sale is happening, you won’t feel sad missing out on it!

7.  Distract Yourself

Find something to do that will distract you from emotional spending.

You might want to sign up for a class, read a new book, or find a hobby.  Choose something that will peak your passions and help you focus on something other than spending.

Starting this little blog has been a great distraction for me.  I am so busy typing and learning that I rarely have time to shop.  My bank account (and husband) thanks me….and all of you readers!

8.  Use the 48 Hour Rule

The 48 Hour Rule has saved me time and time again.  It’s simple to follow really.  When you find something you want to buy, but it is an unplanned purchase, WAIT for 48 hours before buying.

The 48 hours gives you time to decide if you truly want to buy the item and time to research if you can find a better deal somewhere else.

9 times out of 10 I realize I actually did not want to buy it in the first place.  But, sometimes, after 48 hours I go back into the store and buy it…..and there is nothing wrong with that!

Start living by the 48 hour rule….I promise you will thank me later!

9.  Find a Support System

All emotional spenders need an accountability buddy!  An accountability buddy will call you out on your spending mistakes, encourage you to stay strong and be there for you when you are feeling tempted.

When I have used an accountability partner we committed to calling each other whenever we were tempted to spend money.  This friend would then talk to me about the emotions I was feeling and help me find a different way to cope.  And, I would do the same for her.

I honestly never wanted to bother her…..so I really quit spending!!!  It worked like a charm!

Having someone who you will hold you accountable will help you stay within budget and stop unnecessary spending.

In Conclusion

I hope this helped you learn how to stop emotional shopping.  Pick a few of these suggestions and start implementing them today!  The sooner you begin working through these steps, the sooner you will have more money in your wallet!  You can do it, I believe in you!

Related Articles:

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How To Negotiate Your Bills

By: Sweet Frugal Life2 Comments

How I negotiate my bills!

Do you want to save more money?  I am pretty confident that we ALL want to save more money.  Well, I am here to tell you that you can save money on your monthly bills today!  That’s right, most of us are paying to much on our monthly bills.  But, the good news is that you can easily negotiate bills.  All it takes is a little research, time and diligence.

Why Negotiate Bills?

There are so many reasons to negotiate your bills.  The most important reason for me personally is to have more money!  I’m always looking for places to scrimp and save.  I mean, who doesn’t want more money????

Imagine the things you can do with some extra money each month?

  • You could pay off your debt faster!
  • You could grow your sinking funds at a quicker rate!
  • You could spend that money on something FUN (because we all know bills are not a fun way to spend money…amiright????)
  • You could use that extra money to save towards your future.

There are so many possibilities.  The most important thing though is that you will have the extra money to choose to spend in the way that is best for YOU!  There is nothing better than that!

negotiate for lower bills - save money on bills

What Bills Can I Negotiate?

If you are wondering exactly which bills you can negotiate, I say all of them!  I like to follow the rule that it never hurts to ask!

You will never know if it’s negotiable or not if you don’t ask!  The worst thing that can happen is they will say “No.”

Here are a few bills I recommend you start with!  Each of these service providers are all well known of allowing negotiating.

Cable/Satellite TV

We personally got rid of our cable TV years ago, but if you haven’t made that cut yet you can try to get a better deal.  Most cable services will let you negotiate to a lower rate.  It’s worth the phone call!

During this phone call be sure to bring up how long you have been a customer.  If you have been devoted to the company for years they will be much more likely to give you a discount!

It’s also helpful to ask for any promotions they might have at the time.  Cable companies usually rotate different promotions throughout the year.  However, if they by chance don’t have one you qualify for, mention a promo their competitor might be offering.  Most cable companies will match a competitors deal, which is great news for all of us!

Credit Cards

Your credit card balance is your responsibility, however you can negotiate a lower interest rate!  A lower interest rate will mean paying that card off quicker and cheaper!  This is what we all want!

Credit card companies like to reward loyal and responsible behavior.  If you have been on time with your payments, tell them this!  Explain how many months you have been on time and then kindly ask for a lower interest rate.

Medical

Did you know that medical bills are negotiable?  Many people don’t realize this, but they totally are!

If you can pay your bill in full up front, ask for a discount.  Every single time I have asked, I have been told “yes!”.  This discount is usually between 15-25%.  Which can be a significant savings!

If you are unable to pay in full, ask for an interest free payment plan.  This is a great set up because you can pay your bill at your own pace, without having to pay extra in interest.

Internet

Negotiating your internet bills is easy and very similar to negotiating your cable/satellite bills.

When negotiating, be sure to ask for current promotions and mention the promotions their competitor is offering.

Another good strategy is to ask for a cheaper internet package.  This might mean slower internet, or less services.  But, if you need the extra cash it will be worth it!

Insurance Premiums

Negotiating your insurance premiums is another excellent way to save on your monthly bills.  Most insurance agents are willing to work with you on these bills.  Never be afraid to ask!  They want your business!  It’s their job to make you happy!

There are a few things I suggest to bring up during this meeting.  The first is to ask if you can pay once a year, rather than monthly.  Many companies prefer to be paid in one lump sum and will give you a discount if you pay this way.

The other suggestion is to ask your insurance agent for a bundling discount.  This means that you will “bundle” or group your insurances (life, home auto) together with one company.  You can almost always get a discount for bundling.

Bill Negotiating Tips

Negotiating does take a little bit of time and bravery.  It can be intimidating to call these companies up; so I am helping you out with a few bill negotiating tips.

Do Your Research

Be diligent with researching before calling up a company.  Research competitor prices, look over your bills to check your consistency on your payments.  Know what you are talking about before asking for a favor.  They will be much more likely to listen.

Be Polite

When negotiating it is important that you are firm and diligent in your requests.  However, you can be firm while also being polite and considerate.

The people on the other end of the phone are real people with feelings.  You will be listened to more if you are polite.

Be Willing to Leave

If you really want to lower your bills, you need to be willing to leave your current provider.  When you threaten to leave your current service provider, they will usually listen up and honor your request.

But, you have to mean it!  There is a chance they will say, “Ok, then leave.”  And you will need to be willing to live with those consequences.

Today’s Challenge

Make a list of all of your monthly bills.  Choose two of them to try to negotiate to a lesser amount.  You can do it!

If you find success with those two bills, negotiate another one!

Remember, the worst thing that will happen is you will be told “No.”

Liked what you read?  Pin it for use on even more bills!

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It’s time to negotiate your bills!

Seasonal Sales Cycles: What To Buy Each Month For The Best Deal

By: Sweet Frugal Lifecomment

The Best Time To Buy Everything Month By Month

Ok. I want to let you in on a little secret…..are you ready for it????  Here goes!  

Shopping seasonal sales will change your finances.

There, I said it!

Will this one little hack change your finances drastically????  No!

But, will it help you to have more money?  Absolutely!

 

What is a sales cycle?

A sales cycle, also called seasonal sales, is when certain products are put on sale at specific times during the year.  These are usually the times when the products will be priced at their lowest, so if it’s an item you like to buy frequently, you should buy it during that time.

Learning the cycle of seasonal sales is one of the best ways to cut down your regular spending.  I like to wait to buy some of my fave products until I know the sale is likely coming, and then I can confidently buy it at the low price.

What stores have seasonal sales?

Are you wondering what stores have seasonal sales cycles?  Well, you’re in luck because all of them do!  Seriously!  Or at least at MOST stores.   You should be able to find a rotation of sales at clothing, grocery, furniture, hardware stores and more!

Items go on sale in cycles, typically the same products will be on sale the same time of year each year.  Keep reading to find out exactly what goes on sale and when.

 

What’s on Sale in January?

Bedding and Towels:  Many department stores will have sales on their bedding, towels and sheets during January as part of their “white sales.”

Holiday Decorations:  As Christmas ends, you will find huge discounts on all things holiday.  These usually begin right at the end of December/beginning of January.  But make sure to be quick shopping for all things Christmas, as these items will go fast!

Gym Memberships and Equipment:  With the turn of the New Years comes New Years Resolutions, and many goals revolve around fitness.  Because of these goals retailers commonly mark down their gym memberships and fitness equipment.

Calendars and Planners:  If you wait until after January 1 you will be able to get a cheaper price on calendars and planners for the upcoming year.

Toys:  Another great seasonal sales cycle that comes in January is toys!  You should be able to find markdowns on many toys as retailers are trying to decrease their stock of Christmas toys.  This is a good time to stock up for next year or for birthdays!

Grocery Sales in January

Oatmeal Products:  January is National Oatmeal Month, which means grocery stores will put their oatmeal products on sale.  The sales will include granola bars, instant oatmeal, and oat cereal.

Diet Foods:  As mentioned above, January is a popular month for dieting.  A lot of stores take advantage of these new years goals by putting their diet foods on sale.

Party Foods:  Towards the end of January, as the Super Bowl gets closer, you will be able to find markdowns on party foods.  Look for deals on crackers, pizza, wings, chips, dips, soda etc.

In Season Produce:  This month the cheapest produce to buy will be:  apples, grapefruits, kiwi, lemons, clementine’s, cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, brussels spouts, celery, and leeks.

 

 

What’s on Sale in February?

Winter Clothing:  February is a great time to stock up on cold weather clothing, such as clothes, gloves, hats, etc.  Many stores are trying to get rid of their supply to make room for summer/spring clothing.

TVs:  The beginning of February is one of the best times (excluding Black Friday) to buy a new TV.  The prices are heavily discounted right before Super Bowl week.

Furniture:  If you are in the market for new furniture/mattresses, Presidents Day is usually a great time to buy these items!

Video Games:  New video games are commonly released in November, right before the holidays.  If you wait until February to buy these new games you will most likely get them on a discount!

Grocery Sales in February

Chocolate:  Chocolate is heavily discounted after Valentines Day.  Stock up for birthday gifts or yummy snacking!

Canned Food:  February is National Canned Food month making it the perfect time of year to stock up on all the canned goods.  Most grocery stores will be having sales on canned foods including beans, tomatoes, soup, fruit, etc.

In Season Produce:  Seasonal produce in February includes asparagus, broccoli, carrots, celery, kiwi, avocados, lemons and grapefruit.

 

 

What’s On Sale in March?

Luggage:  Luggage typically goes on sale during March, so if you are in need of a new suitcase, this is your month!

Craft Supplies:  March is National Craft Month!  Look for deals on all things craft supplies this month.

Winter Sports Gear:  Now that spring is coming it is a perfect time to buy winter sports gear.  Items like skis and snowshoes will be discounted at many sporting good stores.

Cleaning Supplies:  Spring cleaning is just around the corner and many retailers will start discounting their cleaning supplies in March.

Grocery Sales in March

Frozen Foods:  National Frozen Food Month is in March, meaning many grocers offer deals on all things frozen foods.  It’s the perfect time to stock up on ice cream, frozen veggies, pizza and more.

Breakfast Cereals:  March 7th is National Cereal Day and with that comes discounts on both cold and hot cereals.

In Season Produce:  This month is also a great time to buy broccoli, carrots, celery, mushrooms, cauliflower, oranges, pineapples, and strawberries.

 

What’s On Sale in April?

Easter:  Stock up on all things Easter after the holiday is over.  You will be able to find deals on Easter baskets, eggs, candy, stuffed animals, and decorations.

Vacuums:  New vacuum models are typically released in April, and the older models will go on sale, just in time for spring cleaning.

Snow Blowers:  April is not the month when most people have snow blowers on their mind, but it is the perfect time to buy one for a discounted price!

Cookware Sets:  With graduation and wedding season approaching many department stores start discounting their cookware sets (which make perfect gifts)!

Grocery Sales in April

Ham:  Many foods will be marked down immediately after Easter, including ham!  It’s a great time to get a deal on this expensive meat.

Baking Items:  You can usually find some good deals on baking items throughout the month of April.

Easter Candy:  Make sure to stock up on Easter candy after the holiday is over.

In Season Produce:  The produce in season during the month of April is:  artichokes, beets, zucchini, peas, mushrooms, onion, avocado, and mangos.

 

What’s On Sale in May?

Furniture:  Memorial Day weekend is one of the best times of the year to buy furniture.  If you are needing any indoor furniture or mattresses, this is the month to do so!

Small Kitchen Appliances:  May is the perfect time to get deals on small kitchen appliances as retailers mark them down for graduation and wedding season.  

Paper Products:  A lot of grilling/picnic items go on sale right before Memorial Day weekend, including paper products like plates, napkins, etc.

Grocery Sales in May

Cinco De Mayo:  Cinco De Mayo is on May 5th which brings a lot of celebrations, and a few deals!  At the beginning of the month look for sales on salsa, tortillas, and other Mexican foods.

Grilling Items:  Condiments, hamburger buns, hot dogs and other grilling foods are commonly put on sale during May in preparation for Memorial Day BBQs.

In Season Produce:  Make sure to look for these seasonal produce items:  apricots, artichokes, beets, blackberries, carrots, cantaloupe, peas, radish, strawberries and watermelon.

 

 

What’s On Sale in June?

Bath and Body Products:  Bath and Body Works always has their semi annual sale in June with fantastic markdowns!  This is a great time to stock up on your favorite bath and body products, I also like to buy a few to gift as Christmas presents!  This is one of my favorite seasonal sales cycles!

Tools:  With Fathers Day in the middle of June, you will find prices on tools dropping.  These make great gifts for Fathers Day, but you can also plan ahead for Christmas!

Workout Clothing:  Many retailers put their workout clothing on sale in June as people tend to get more active during the summer months.  This is a good time to get a deal on clothes for exercising or outdoor adventures.

Spring Clothing:  June is a great month for shopping clothing clearance racks.  Most of the spring clothes are put on sale to make room for all of the summer items.

Pain Killers:  Did you know that June is National Headache Month (yes, this is a real thing!)?  You can usually find a few deals on pain killers, sinus medications, aspirin, etc.  

Grocery Sales in June

Dairy Foods:  June is National Dairy Month and with it brings grocery deals on all things dairy, including milk, yogurt, eggs, ice cream and cheese.

Grilling Items:  Like May you can find a lot of deals on foods for grilling, such as meats, condiments, buns, etc.

In Season Produce:  Here are a few of the produce items that are in season this month:  corn, cucumbers, squash, apricots, blueberries, peaches, strawberries and watermelon.

 

What’s On Sale in July?

Patriotic Items:  Immediately after the 4th of July is the best time of year to stock up on supplies, decorations and clothing for next years celebrations.  These sales will begin right before the holiday, but if you wait and buy after the 4th, the discount will be even greater.

Paint:  Lowes and Home Depot typically have paint sales in July.  If you’ve been wanting to paint a room in your house, this is a great month to do it!

Swimsuits:  Near the end of the month you will start seeing discounts on swimsuits, stock up now before they get picked over!

Grocery Sales in July

Ice Cream:  July is National Ice Cream Month (AKA:  the best holiday ever!).  Grocery stores will be having sales on ice cream, so be on the lookout for those throughout the month!

Hot Dogs:  In addition to ice cream, July is also National Hot Dog Month!  You will be able to find deals on hot dogs, buns and condiments.

In Season Produce:  Seasonal produce this month include blueberries, watermelon, green beans, squash, swiss chard, tomatoes, corn and cucumbers.

 

What’s On Sale in August?

School/Office Supplies:  August is a popular time for retailers to mark down their school and office supplies in preparation for back to school time.  Stock up now and be prepared all year.

Patio Furniture:  As summer comes to an end, you will be able to find good deals on outdoor patio furniture.  It’s a great time to buy ahead to use for next year!

Yard Care Supplies:  This is the perfect month for buying garden supplies, lawn mowers and other yard care items.  Retailers are marking down yard care supplies to clear them out before winter comes.

Grocery Sales In August

Breakfast Foods:  The first day of school will be starting soon, and typically the seasonal sales cycles include deals on easy foods for parents and kids.  Breakfasts items is one of those foods.  You should see sales on cereal, juice, and frozen waffles.

Cold Lunch Foods:  In addition to breakfast, food items for cold lunch will also be going on sale.  Make sure to stock up on fruit cups, lunch meat, lunchables, crackers and peanut butter.

In Season Produce:  Stock up on these produce items in August:  peppers, zucchini, tomatoes, raspberries and watermelon.

 

What’s On Sale in September?

Summer Clothing:  September is the perfect month to stock up on warm weather clothing to use for next year.  You will find big discounts at most clothing stores.

Luggage:  Labor Day weekend typically brings great sales on luggage.  Make sure to buy any suitcases you will need during the first weekend of September.

Grills:  This is the perfect month to buy that new grill you’ve been eyeing.  They will be marked down as part of the end of summer clearance sales.

Mattresses:  Another popular Labor Day weekend sale is on mattresses.  Check your local furniture store for this great seasonal sale cycle deal!

Grocery Sales in September

Canned Soup:  Fall is just around the corner and you’ll begin seeing markdowns on fall comfort foods, such as canned soups.

In Season Produce:  Make sure to watch out for good deals on these September produce items:  apples, green beans, cantaloupe, beets, cauliflower, onion, tomatoes and pears.

 

 

What’s On Sale in October?

Jeans:  October is one of the best times of the year to buy jeans.  They are commonly marked down as back to school season ends.

Camping Gear:  If you like to camp, or want to start camping, October is the perfect month to stock up on new supplies.  The discounts are heavy now that summer is officially over!

Grocery Sales in October

Seafood:  October is National Seafood Month and grocers will offer sales on seafood throughout the month to celebrate.

Baking Sales:  The fall baking sales are prevalent during October.  You should be able to find many baking items on sale including canned pumpkin, chocolate chips, evaporated milk, flour, sugar, etc.

In Season Produce:  You’ll find the best deals on these produce items during October:  apples, potatoes, cranberries, grapes, pumpkins, sweet potatoes, broccoli and cabbage.

 

What’s On Sale in November?

Halloween Costumes:  Head into the store the first couple of days after Halloween to stock up on Halloween costumes.  These are great to keep around for next years Halloween or for your kids to use when playing dress up.

Electronics:  November is the best month of the year to buy electronics, especially during Black Friday sales.  This is a great time of year to buy TVs, laptops, and other electronics.

Beauty Products:  Black Friday is also a great time to buy beauty products like makeup and hair tools.  Most beauty stores will have big sales all weekend.

Appliances:  Appliances are traditionally included in the November Black Friday deals.  You should find some of the lowest prices on refrigerators, dishwashers, ovens, etc. this month.

Grocery Sales in November

Canned Food:  Thanksgiving pantry staples will be on sale this month, so look for deals on canned pumpkin, canned cranberry sauce, sweetened condensed milk and canned vegetables.

Halloween Candy:  All Halloween candy will go on sale the first week of November.  You can stock up on candy to use for Christmas or other events throughout the year (or just to eat yourself….).

In Season Produce:  Be sure to shop this months in season produce:  beets, broccoli, pears, brussels sprouts, carrots, kiwis, oranges, potatoes and pomegranates.

 

What’s On Sale in December?

Gift Cards:  Gift cards will be on sale throughout the month of December.  This is the perfect time to buy gift cards to give as presents or to use throughout the next year.  Look for gift card sales from retailers and restaurants.  Last year I bought a few Target gift cards for 10% off!

Vehicles:  December is a great time to buy a new vehicle.  Many dealerships are more willing to negotiate at the end of the year to clear the lot for newer models.

Christmas Decorations/Wrapping Paper:  Wait until after Christmas to shop for new holiday decorations and wrapping paper.  They will be heavily discounted at the end of the month.  I always like to stock up to save for the next year.

Grocery Sales in December

Baking Goods:  Baking items continue to be on sale throughout the holidays.  Watch for deals on items like flour, sugar, pie crusts, and whipped cream.

Party Foods:  As the end of the month nears take advantage of grocery sales on party foods such as veggie trays, crackers and dips.

In Season Produce:  Winter produce will be priced right this month, stock up on items like:  pears, cauliflower, celery, grapefruit, oranges, and spinach.

 

Shop Smart

If you regularly shop the seasonal sales cycles you will begin to see a decrease in your spending (which in turn increases the amount of money in your pocket!).  It requires some patience and effort, but it’s worth the wait to score good deals on items you need and want!

 

Here are a few other articles to help you save more money:

10 Quick Ways to Save Money on Groceries

12 Products Worth Buying To Save Money In The Long Run

15 Best Generic Products To Buy

 

Pin For Future Reference:

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Enjoy shopping the seasonal sales cycles now that you know what to buy each month for the best deal. 

 

What To Do When Grocery Prices Rise

By: Sweet Frugal Lifecomment

How to handle the rising price of food.

I don’t think it’s a secret to anyone that grocery prices are increasing.  All it takes is one quick trip to the grocery store to see that food costs are much higher then they were a year ago.  According the the USDA, grocery prices in September 2021 were 4.6 percent higher then the previous September.  Which is a huge increase!  Unfortunately, the experts are warning that grocery prices are only going to continue to grow.  But, not to worry!  There are a few tricks you can do when grocery prices rise.

This article contains affiliate links.  I will be compensated from purchases made from links in this post.

 

grocery prices increasing - how to save money on groceries

1.  Adjust Your Budget

If you are currently budgeting (which I recommend) now is probably a good time to adjust your grocery budget a little.  Your budget is fluid for a reason, to be adjusted when needed.  And grocery prices rising is definitely a time when your budget needs an update.  I know that this sounds contradictory, but inflation is real, and you still have to eat.  I would rather your grocery budget be higher and you stick to the budget then have it be lower and you constantly over spend.

If you are new to budgeting make sure to grab my free budgeting cheatsheets below to help you get started!

Two years ago my family had a very consistent $100/week grocery budget.  We were eating well, feeling content and happy with our budgeted amount.

Now?  We are spending $150/week on groceries.  Do I love that we are spending so much more?  Not at all!  But, I know that my budget needs to be realistic for my needs, otherwise I will constantly be overspending, and that is not good for my budget or wallet!

Take a minute one day to sit down and really look at exactly how much money you’ve been spending on groceries over the past few months.  Use those numbers as a guideline to help you set your new grocery budget.  Be realistic, but also frugal when making your budget!

2.  Change Your Eating Habits

This might be a good time to change some of your eating habits, which I KNOW is not easy (trust me, I tooootally get it!).  Take a look at what you eat regularly and really ask yourself some hard questions.  Such as, is everything on your grocery receipt absolutely necessary?  What food could you quit buying to save a little bit of money? (I finally decided to quit buying my chocolate fudge pops to cut down my grocery bill!)  Is there some cheaper alternatives you could buy to replace the expensive items in your cart?

For Example:

  • If you consistently buy pre cut fruits and vegetables, start buying them whole instead and cutting them yourself (it really only takes a few minutes to do!).
  • Instead of buying disposable water bottles, buy one reusable water bottle you can use again and again.
  • Quit buying premade granola and make your own instead!  I love this homemade granola recipe.
  • Another tip is to avoid buying prepackaged snacks.  Buy the snack in bulk and use a tupperware container to portion out smaller sizes.

These are just a few suggestions, but there are many other easy alternatives to replacing items you eat regularly, with more affordable alternatives.  Get creative and be honest with yourself about your needs.

3.  Shop Sales

One of the quickest ways to see your grocery bill drop is to start shopping sales.  Every week grocery stores come out with a new ad highlighting the grocery deals for that current week.  

Look through these weekly ads using the free Flipp app, and then plan your grocery list and weekly menu around what’s on sale.  This might mean that you will have to go to multiple grocery stores for your weekly shopping trip, I get this is time consuming, but shopping sales is a huge savings and usually worth the hassle!

When you find those great deals, make sure to stock up to have them on hand until the next sale comes around!  Not sure what a good price is?  Grab my Stock Up Price Guide here!

4.  Use Coupons and Rebate Offers

I’ll be the first to admit that couponing isn’t as amazing as it once was ten years ago, but coupons are still a valuable way to save some extra cash when grocery prices rise.

One of the hardest parts of using coupons, is finding them!  Here are a few places I like to get my coupons from:

Another easy way to alleviate grocery costs is to use rebate offers.  Rebates are similar to coupons, but instead of getting money of the purchase price, you are giving cash back after making your purchase.  This is a great way to earn a little extra money while buying items you would be buying anyways.  My favorite rebate apps are:

My favorite way to coupon is to match a coupon with a sale and/or rebate offer.  That is when the BIG savings happens!

5.  Try Substituting Expensive Foods For Cheaper Options

Another trick to saving money on groceries is to use substitutions in recipes.  You don’t have to follow each recipe exactly!  Some recipes have a lot of expensive ingredients, which you can easily substitute for something cheaper!

For example:  if a recipe calls for 1 cup of buttermilk, don’t buy the buttermilk and mix 1 cup of milk with 1 Tablespoon of vinegar instead!  It’s cheaper and so easy!  There are many other budget friendly substitutions you can try, check them out here: Easy Food Substitutions To Save Money here.

6.  Buy Cheaper Cuts of Meat

When it comes to grocery prices increasing, meat is at the top of the list!  Currently it is hard to find some of our favorite meats for a low price.

If you can relate, I recommend you start trying a few cheaper cuts of meat.  They still taste just as good, but are much better for your wallet.  Here are some of our favorite frugal meats:

  • Chicken Thighs
  • Pork Shoulder
  • Ground Turkey
  • Bone In Pork Chops

7.  Buy Generic

Honestly, I love buying name brand when it’s on sale.  Sale prices on name brand groceries are usually much lower then generic.  But!  When you can’t find a good sale on name brand groceries (it happens!), buy generic instead (trust me!).

I use to turn my nose up to generic brand groceries, but I was so wrong!!  Many generic grocery items are even better then the store bought, but they are so much cheaper!

If you are feeling unsure of trying generic groceries, check out my list of some of my favorite generic groceries.  These all taste just as good as name brand and are a great place to start.

Even More Ways To Save Money On Groceries

If you are looking for even more tricks to save money on rising grocery prices be sure to check out Crystal Paines Slash Your Grocery Bill eBook where she shares 25 tried and true ways to spend less at the grocery store.

It’s so hard to know what to do when grocery prices rise, but these strategies should help you save more money this year.  They have all helped my family, and I know they can help yours too!

 

 

 

 

Related Articles:

10 Quick Ways to Save Money on Groceries

Pantry Challenge Tips to Save Money on Groceries

10 Incredibly Easy Ways to Stretch Meals

 

Pin For Future Reference:

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I hope these tip will help you know what to do when grocery prices rise.

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