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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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