Every Monday in 2015, I’ll be sharing a different idea to help you save money! Add all of these tips to your frugal repertoire and you’ll be able to save a lot of money this year! I hope you’ll gather a few new ideas or at least some inspiration from this series.
Ever since my husband and I were married almost 8 years ago, I’ve been planning our weekly menu. Even if I didn’t take the time to write things down, I still had a few meals in mind that would get us through the week. It’s in my nature to be a planner so planning a menu was obvious for my own sanity. But, even if you’re more of an impromptu cook, today I’d like to touch on the importance of menu planning. Especially if you’re looking to save money and some sanity. We’re all busy people so the power of a plan can help each of us tremendously!
Menu Planning Keeps the budget in check
Groceries cost a lot. Save yourself some financial stress by planning your meals and your shopping list based on what’s on sale and what you already have in your pantry. With a menu plan in place, you only have to purchase the ingredients you need create the meals you’ve picked. That’s how I spend less than $50 some weeks on groceries.
Your Time and Sanity are Important Too
Whether you work outside the home or you’re a stay-at-home parent, we’re all juggling a ton of activities on a daily basis. While planning a menu in the first place takes a bit of time, it will definitely save you time and restore sanity in the end. You will always have the ingredients you need to create a meal from your planned menu. No running to the store for a last minute item or opening the fridge and cupboards 500 times to figure out what to make for dinner. Or realizing it’s 5pm and you just spent an hour trying to find a great recipe when dinner could have already been on the table. With a plan in place, all you have to do is pick a meal from the list and make it!
Menu Planning Reduces Waste
Have you ever bought food from the grocery store thinking you’ll use it for something, but end up throwing it out instead? If you stick to the grocery list that you created based on your planned meals, you won’t be purchasing anything that you won’t use. In turn, creating less waste, both in the food sense and financial sense!
I believe that having a menu plan to save money and your sanity cannot be stressed enough. Menu planning has made my life so much easier and I’ve heard the same from many others. Sometimes, the menu plan is the only thing in the day that goes as planned!
For a limited time only, save 25% off swim wear in the swim shop at CartersOshKosh.ca! Plus, you’ll receive free shipping on your entire order with any swimsuit purchase!
For a limited time only, save 40% off all baby and kids styles at Old Navy! These sales are the kind I like to take advantage of to fill in any gaps for upcoming seasons. Or to start creating a wardrobe for the next size!
Are your trips to the salon starting to add up? While I do cut my husband's hair at home, I'm not quite willing to try cutting my own hair yet (or ever?). Like me, cutting your own hair may not be an option, so take a look at these 7 ways to save money at the salon that you can try. With just a little creativity and effort, you can save money on your salon visits and keep a little extra cash in your pocket. Here is how you can get started saving today!
1. Stretch out your colorings.
Do you go every 4 weeks for a color touch up? If so, see if you can stretch out your coloring schedule by an additional week. This can help you eliminate a few colorings a year and save you some serious cash. Chances are, you won’t even be bothered by waiting an additional week.
2. Skip the blow dry and style.
Most stylists charge you extra to dry your hair and style it. If you are just heading home after your appointment anyway, skip the blow dry and style. You can easily shave $20 or more off your visit and just dry your own hair when you get home.
3. Check out loyalty offers.
Many salons value your loyalty and are willing to reward you for it. Check with your salon to see if they offer any type of loyalty program. If so, take advantage of it! If they don’t and you are still in search of a good deal, don’t be afraid to shop around for the best price. The salon I've been frequenting offers a free hair cut after I purchase 10 cuts.
4. Don’t be tempted by sales pitches.
Many times the stylist will want to sell you the products they use in your hair. Don’t fall for the sales pitch. Kindly decline and resist the urge to make your final bill any higher. So many drugstore products are just as good as professional products these days, so save a little cash and opt for those brands instead.
5. Avoid bells and whistles.
A salon that offers complimentary beverages, robes, snacks, and other perks will come at a higher price. Skip these bells and whistles if you can and instead go with what you came for…a great cut and color! Salons that offer all of those extra perks usually add the cost into the service.
6. Ask about coupons.
Many salons offer coupons for savings on their services. Check the local paper for such deals or simply ask your stylist if he/she knows of any savings that are available. You might also find savings on their Facebook page.
7. Follow the salon on social media.
Be sure you are following your salon on social media so you can be the first to know about sales and savings that may be available to you. Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram are all great places to follow your favorite salon.
Are you ready to save money on your next salon visit? If so, give these 7 tips for saving money at the salon a try!
Looking at getting a Keurig brewing system? Check out the all new Keurig K200. Keurig.ca is having a limited time launch price and they’re offering the system for only $99.99. Here are some more details:
Slim design, sophisticated look and a splash of colour. The vibrant Keurig K200 brewing system is a must for the modern kitchen. Pick the brewer that sparks your inspiration and colours your everyday.