Valentine’s Day is a great holiday to let your special someone know how much you care. Whether you’re going out on your first date or you’ve already passed your golden anniversary, there’s a lot of amazing gifts to choose from that will make your date feel spoiled. However, if you’re on a pretty tight budget you may find that this holiday can leave you stressed to the max. With expensive gifts surrounding you, it may feel as if you have no choice but to comply with the corporate prices. There’s a few ways you can shop for your sweetheart without worrying about the negative effect on your bank account though. With a few shopping alterations and a little creativity you’ll give your Valentine a gift that won’t be forgotten any time soon.

1. Local Flowers
Flowers, especially roses, are a go-to gift for couples young and old. They’re also a simple gift for anyone who may have forgotten that Valentine’s Day was on its way. From street vendors to bulk stores, you won’t have a problem finding flowers in your area; however, you may have a problem with how much the flowers cost. Before you do any shopping you should check out your local farmer’s market. Many farmers will have flowers in abundance for the special day and you may end up walking away with an extraordinary deal. Shopping this way will also help your local farmers have a little extra cash to buy their Valentine something special too! If you can’t find a deal at your Farmer’s Market then try a warehouse store. These stores will typically offer bulk deals which will allow you to get more for your money. If you don’t want to buy a lot of roses then you may consider splitting the costs with friends so you each get a small bouquet for your dates. While you’re shopping look for flowers with tight buds as this means they’ll last much longer than the holiday. You should also ask for plant food to help keep the flowers vibrant for longer.

2. DIY Gift
If you’re really hurting for money then there’s a wide assortment of gifts you can make that may even be appreciated more than one you buy. For instance, if you can’t afford flowers then take it to the next level by creating origami flowers. They’re free to make if you already have paper and you can get a free tutorial online. Another easy option is to create your own card. You can easily do this with supplies from home and if you want to step it up a notch add your own personal poem inside. If you feel your creative energy flowing then draw, paint or sculpt something special for the one you love. This will make for a great piece to display in the home throughout the year and will remind your special someone how much you care. Another great idea is to have your favorite photo of the two of you professionally printed. You can then make a special frame that’s filled with love. A coupon book is always a good gift option and you can fill it with anything you know your special someone will adore. Finally, you can create special love notes on Post Its and place them around the house for your partner to find throughout the day.

3. Homemade Meal
There’s nothing quite like home cooking and if your significant other tends to do the majority of the cooking and cleaning in the home then this could be the biggest treat of all. Try to master your partner’s favorite meal or cook something you know you can pull off without triggering the fire detector. Your special someone will be excited with your effort even if it isn’t a gourmet meal. To make things more romantic you can easily light a few candles, dim the lights and play some smooth music that both of you will enjoy. You could also pack finger foods for a romantic picnic under the stars. No matter how you choose to present this meal you’ll save a whole lot of money and hassle opposed to spending a fortune on a restaurant that is totally booked.

4. Romantic Desserts
A box of chocolates is another go-to treat that will leave your special someone satisfied. However, these boxes can be exceptionally pricey and may even leave you too broke to do anything else on the holiday. A great alternative to the classic gift is to make your own romantic dessert. There’s a lot of sweet treats to choose from so you can work around your partner’s needs in order to make the day special. One classic and very easy choice is chocolate covered strawberries. You can find rapid hardening chocolate in most stores or you can make up your own dipping sauce or simply use a fondue pot. Another easy alternative is pairing the strawberries with whipped cream which will cut down on the price all the more. Red velvet cake is another great alternative which can be whipped up from scratch, made from a box or purchased from most grocery stores or bakeries. If you’re still looking for ideas to make the perfect dessert, there’s lots of recipes online to guide you!

5. Be Cheesy
A lot of people go for the simple stuffed toy when it comes to Valentine’s Day surprises. This can be incredibly expensive though and often ends up going to charity or taking up space in your attic or storage unit. Rather than going for this option try to get a little cheesy with your gift. For instance, if the two of you ended up bonding over a movie when you began dating then pick up this movie. You could also plan a special date by ordering the same food you had during your first date. Another special option is a knick-knack that has something to do with your relationship. For instance, if you share the love of a video game then purchase a figure that represents a romantic element from the game. The same can be said from any hobby ranging from sports to the orchestra. These types of gifts won’t just cut down on the cost of your gift but will mean more to your date than a 10 foot bear ever could.

6. Gift Cards
If you’re one of the many people who have no idea what to get your special someone then a gift card is probably the way to go. Gift cards are especially great if you want to give your partner clothing or items that you know they would rather pick out. The best thing is, you can buy gift cards online at discount websites so you can get even more for your money. If you want to go out to eat somewhere special then it’s a great idea to go this route too. It will allow you to pay less for each gift card you buy so you can enjoy the savings at a nice restaurant you and your Valentine’s date have always wanted to try. Another great thing about gift cards is, if you forget the holiday is coming up you can pick them up last minute and print them out before your partner even realizes you left the room!

7. Spa
Nothing says you appreciate your special someone quite like a trip to the spa. Try to look around online and find a package deal for you and your partner to enjoy a couple’s day together. You could also just look for an exciting deal that your loved one would like to try alone. Of course, if you’re low on money then you can cheaply create your own spa at home. It’s a lot easier than you think so don’t disregard the concept if you think you don’t have the time or money. Although it may not be spa oriented, run a hot bubble bath for your Valentine and top off the mood with some soothing scents and candle light. You can also offer back and feet rubs to help relieve tension. There’s a lot of home spa kits available online or in your local department store too, so if you want to go all out with the project then the pre-made kits are a great place to start and won’t cost you a fortune.

8. Shop Early
Valentine’s Day is the season of diamonds and luxurious gifts. If you want to go down that route this holiday and still want to save some money then you will definitely need to start shopping early. There will be a ton of sales for you to choose from during this time, but not all of them will actually be worth your time. Shopping ahead will allow you to look at the prices prior to the sales discounts so you’ll know exactly how much you’re saving. It will also give you time to surf the sales so you can scower local dealers as well as those online to see who can give you the best price. Typically, you may actually get a better deal online so you’ll want to be an early bird to ensure your gift will make it to you on time. The earlier you shop the more time you’ll be able to think over the purchase as well. You may be on the fence about the style or you may even need to do some research on the product itself. With time comes a more satisfying buy you’ll be proud to present to your loved one.

9. Mini Getaway
Going on a trip is a great way to celebrate Valentine’s Day with someone you love. Of course, taking a trip also means spending a whole lot of money, especially if you decide to leave at the last minute. Rather than planning out a faraway getaway try to enjoy a holiday nearby. For instance, try to plan a quick escape to a nearby city or town. You can spend the day exploring an area you may not know, enjoying time in a romantic hotel and dining on local cuisine. It may not measure up to the Bahamas or other tropical adventures, but it will refresh you and provide you with the romantic trip you’d hoped to find. You can also enjoy time with your significant other while camping. You’ll love watching the stars without having to strain your eyes to see past all the city lights. The best thing is, with a quick getaway you won’t have to take as much time off work, so you’ll save more without losing out!

10. Postpone
There’s no law saying you have to celebrate Valentine’s Day on the actual day. In fact, if you and your date decide to celebrate it the day after then you may be in store for a lot more savings than you can imagine. For starters, flowers, boxes of chocolates and other classic Valentine’s Day gifts will be on sale as soon as the holiday is over. You’ll be able to spend more money on wines and other treats because the special Valentine’s Day packages will go straight to the clearance bin. You also won’t have to wait for hours to get into a restaurant which means spending less money on appetizers and drinks to tide you over until you can sit down and enjoy a meal. If you’re planning a getaway then Valentine’s Day customers won’t be taking up the rooms, so you’ll pay less and will be able to enjoy the amenities all the more!

Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to leave you hurting for money. With these ten gift ideas you should come out of the holiday with savings you and your special someone will be proud of! So, this year show you care by exercising your new frugal skills!

Kids need room to play and enjoy their childhood and parents need a place to make sure those pesky LEGOs aren’t going to be stepped on first thing in the morning. So, of course, a playroom is the solution to all of these issues. However, thinking about converting a room into a play room can be a lot of stress when you think about how much it’ll cost to keep it up to standards. There’s a lot of short cuts you can take to ensure your kids love their playroom and are going to get the most benefit out of it. There’s also a couple ways to take the cost out of keeping the room a safe place to play. So, get out your planning book because your next household project is going to make the kids jump for joy without sending your wallet into a dark depression.

1. Build Up
If you have a small space to work in then you should consider building up in order to provide the kids with more room. Building up will work magic in a playroom, especially if you have high ceilings. These ceilings open up plenty of room to build an indoor tree house that will make playing inside on rainy days seem all the more enticing. If you don’t have high ceilings then a simple platform can transform the amount of space children have to play. When you choose to build one of these items try to use wood you have laying around the house. You should always check the condition of the wood though, just to be safe. If you don’t have wood at home then look online for anyone trying to get rid of wood for cheap or free. You can also buy cheaper woods, like plywood or scrap wood, from your local lumber or hardware store. When it comes to building with these items reinforcement is key so make sure you have a game plan. You can also add more space for physical activity with rope climbing or rock walls for older children. These items are cheaper than you’d expect to build! Of course, you should also build shelves to help keep storage off the ground.

2. Refurbish items
Creating a playroom for the kids doesn’t mean you also have to go out and buy all new furniture to fill the room with. Instead, check out some of those items you have in storage to see if they’ll work. A lot of items like old boxes, TV stands, night stands and so on can be transformed into toy boxes or cute little work areas. If you have a small entertainment center then try to convert it into a mini kitchen or tool area for younger children. With a little paint and a spark of imagination you can create your child’s new favorite toy for next to nothing. Old doors are also a great item to incorporate into your children’s playroom. You can easily transform a door into an arts and crafts table or a place for children to play with larger toys like a train set. Finally, chairs that may not match your current decor can be reupholstered with kid friendly designs to add a comfortable place to read in the room.

3. Tape
You may wonder how tape can save you money in a playroom, but there’s a whole lot of reasons to add it into the design budget. With a little tape your children can burn off quite a bit of energy when they’re playing indoors! To begin with, you can create a simple hop scotch design on the floor for hours of entertainment. You may also consider tic-tac-toe or a beanbag toss game too. With the right tape you can easily remove it from hardwood flooring or carpet without a problem. You can also use the same tactic on the wall for tic-tac-toe and other simple games. Just tape pieces of Velcro to the wall and game pieces and your children will have a fun game that takes up no floor space. Of course, tape can also be used for decor. With a little patience you can add your children’s names to the wall as well as the alphabet and numbers or create fun frames around their art work. This is especially great for younger children as you won’t have to worry about heavy glass frames falling as they play.

4. Rugs
Making the playroom comfortable for playtime can be hard when you have tiled or wooden floors as it’s not very comfortable to sit on. If you have rugs laying around the house that aren’t in use then this is probably your cheapest way to add comfort to the area without spending money. Rugs can sometimes be a bit hazardous though, especially if the children are very active in the room. So, when you put them in add a strip of velcro to each side and to the floor to keep the rugs from slipping out of place. If you do, however, have rugs in your budget then try to look for cheap rugs that can dual as a play area. For instance, many children’s stores will sell rugs that have a hopscotch design as well as those that have a railroad track or simple road with scenery. These will work as play places which will keep children busier and more satisfied with their designated area. You may also want to consider picking up carpet samples which are cheap to free at some stores. These can be moved around the room, so your children are comfortable wherever they choose to play. Another option is to buy foam puzzle pieces, which may run you more money, but will add a burst of color and comfort to the room.

5. Rotate Toys
Toy storage may end up costing you a lot of money if you’re not careful. It can also take up a lot of space, thus limiting the play area for your children. Rather than overburdening the room with storage, try to rotate toys every few months. Ask the children which toys they’d like to play with the most and pack up the rest. After a few months swap some toys and watch as they light up with excitement over the toys they probably forgot they had. Of course, not all children will be up for this. If this is the case then go through and pack away items they rarely use when they’re not home. After a few months swap them out. This will cut down on the amount of toys in the room and will also keep your from spending a lot of money on toys throughout the year.

6. Pools
Kids’ pools aren’t just for swimming! In fact, you can use these for a lot of fun activities inside the home. If you have younger children then a simple plastic or blow up pool can quickly be transformed into an indoor sandbox that will bring hours of fun. You may want to put a tarp down underneath the pool to help catch excess sand that falls off the children when they’re finished playing. A blow up pool can also be turned into a fun ball pit that will drive toddlers wild. You can cheaply pick up balls in bulk online, which will keep your budget low. The best thing is, you won’t have to take your kids to the ball pit anymore which will save on time and germs! A blow up pool also makes a great play pin for younger children who aren’t quite walking. The soft exterior makes it a great bumper for falling and it can hold several toys and provides and cozy nap area. As the seasons transform back into summer you can always take the pool back outside!

7. Use the Walls
Avoid taking up too much space on the floor by using your walls for play and storage. If your child has a lot of small items then consider hanging up bins or baskets to add to the decor of the room and keep the toys in order. You can also take shoe organizers and place them on the wall or back of doors. In these you can store medium sized figurines and dolls as well as craft supplies. The walls can also be transformed into one large easel for kids that love doodling and showing off their art work. Try painting the lower portion of a wall with chalkboard paint which will allow children the ability to draw and erase as they please. Of course, you could also splurge a bit and buy wallpaper designed for coloring. A cheaper option is to hang rolled paper on the wall. This allows you to easily save some of the art and cleanup will take mere seconds.

8. Primary Colors
Painting the room is a big concern for many parents as it may be hard to suit all of the children’s interests. One simple way to avoid fighting over the paint job is to stick with primary colors. These colors are known to help promote brain stimulation in children so they’ll get a whole lot more out of their play time. If you aren’t keen on simple blue, red and yellow then try to incorporate the colors into the decor and keep the walls simple with a soothing color that won’t tire the children’s eyes. This will not only create a relaxed setting, but will trigger brain stimulation that encourages more creative thinking while also helping the brain absorb lessons from educational toys and books. Sticking to primary colors will also ensure you can match other decor with ease and will also prevent you from having to keep repainting the room to suit your child’s needs.

9. Skip the Theme
Kids’ interests change on a daily basis, so choosing a theme for a playroom isn’t a wise choice. Instead of spending a small fortune on items they’re going to be bored of within a week try to go for a gender neutral color. This will help keep all the children happy without spending too much on themed decor. If the children really want something themed in the room then think as simple and frugal as possible. Try displaying some of the kids’ toys on shelves or allowing some of their favorite DVD covers to show. If this isn’t working then a simple poster or print out from online will offer the theme they need without forcing you to spend over $5. Of course, you may also want to consider wall or window decals which are slightly more expensive, but easy to remove when the interest passes.

10. Clear Bins
Finally, choose bins that won’t make your playroom look smaller. Clear bins are always a safe option and they offer a world of benefits. For instance, with clear bins you can always see what’s in a box, so snacks, tissues or other non-playroom friendly items won’t end up hanging out in the toy area. It will also allow children to see what toys they have and where they belong which helps with clean up as well as keeping the child entertained. Clear bins will also leave the room feeling larger as they aren’t a big opaque item taking up space. Thus, the room will feel breezier and a lot more comfortable for everyone.

Setting up a playroom can be easier and cheaper than you’d ever expect. However, a lot of people have a hard time picking just what should go in their room. With these simple tips you should be able to set up a room that isn’t just fun for the kids, but will help their mind’s achieve greatness. With a little TLC on your end and a few money saving tips your children will be more than happy with the amazing space you provide them.

There’s only one more big game before the Super Bowl, so it may be time to get out your game plan and put it into action. Planning a Super Bowl Party can be harder than you’d expect, especially if you’re battling a budget to make it happen. There’s actually a lot of different ways you can work around finances to transform your annual party into something everyone will remember. With a few simple tricks you can blow any standard party out of the water and show all of your friends and family just how tough your party planning skills are. So, put on your game face and get ready to save a lot of money while having the time of your life.

1. Bulk Buys
The Super Bowl means BIG and the best way to get that into your house is to stock up with bulk supplies. This is one of the top ways to cut out spending when you’re planning a party without cutting out the much needed snacks. Luckily, many of your bulk buy stores will have most of the common items you’ll need ready to go. Typically, around this time of the year stores will order more large packages of chips and soda, which will help you get what you need at an even greater price. You’ll also be able to find large packages of hotdogs and hamburger meat to help you create a tasty barbeque for just under budget. If you’re looking to splurge a little bit then see what the bulk store has for dips and other accessories that will improve what you serve your guests. If you choose to shop this route you may not have to worry about any other party supplies and might even have extras to feed the family for dinners in the days following the game.

2. Cook From Scratch
If you’re planning on serving a lot of food at the party then pre-packaged items might not be the best route to go. Sure, all you have to do is follow simple instructions or just pop it in the microwave, but the price can send your budget through the roof. Rather than shop in the pre-packed aisle, try to come up with some Super Bowl recipes you can make from scratch. Super Bowl days are typically pretty cold for most of the country, so choose a meal that won’t just satisfy your guests hunger, but will also warm them up. A big pot of beans or chili can be just the ticket to keep your guests hunger at bay and they don’t take a whole lot of work to create. You also won’t have to spend a lot of money on ingredients, especially if you have your own frugal recipe ready to go! If slow cooking isn’t your idea of a good time then make it even easier by serving simple appetizers. Nachos are usually a hit and will take only a few minutes to put together and cook. You can also make pizzas out of French bread and simple ingredients. Baked potatoes are also incredibly easy and won’t cost you too much. If you’re feeling ambitious you may want to try to make your own dips or desserts. Cookies are a quick and cheap option that everyone loves!

3. Potluck
Not everyone wants to spend their Super Bowl Sunday in the kitchen! Instead of whipping up everything for the party ask your guests to bring something in with them. You can start out by making a few filling dishes, especially if your guests are expecting certain foods from you. As the guests begin to show up, your home will be filled with a variety of different foods that will make the party even more exciting. This is especially great if you have guests with specific dietary concerns as you won’t have to spend the day catering to everyone’s needs. With a potluck you won’t have to spend a small fortune either which makes things a lot easier in regards to the rest of your planning. If you’re uncomfortable with asking people to bring food then you can always ask for them to bring beverages, which tend to bring the budget to astronomical proportions!

4. Alcohol Free
Alcohol can play a huge part in a lot of Super Bowl parties, but this doesn’t mean you have to have it at your party. If you don’t already have a full bar at home then providing all of your guests with alcohol could make your party’s budget sky rocket. Even if you plan on sticking to a light beer you’ll still be out a lot of money you could use elsewhere. So, why not skip the beverages all together? This won’t just save you a lot of money when you go shopping for the party, but it will ensure you won’t spend the day burning gasoline as you safely drop your guests off at their homes due to alcohol levels. An alcohol free party also makes it more family friendly which is ideal if you have kids or plan to have friends and family over that have a lot of children.

5. Keep Decorations Light
When it comes to hosting a party it’s easy to want to go overboard with decorations. Chances are most of your guests probably won’t care about what’s on the walls as soon as the TV is turned on. Thus, try to avoid spending a whole lot of money on items you don’t already own. If you already have items from a team that is playing then you don’t really need anything else to make your party stand out. Of course, if this is your first party then keep it simple by just putting out streamers. You can go all out and buy streamers for the team you hope to win, or make sure you can use them year after year by sticking to the basic NFL colors. If you plan on having kids over for the event then ask them to sit down and color in football helmets and footballs to use as décor throughout the house. You can also have them create paper football flags that can be placed on a straw for a little extra fun. These can even be used in your guests’ mixed drinks to make your party’s style standout.

6. Entertain
Not everyone is going to be at your party to watch the game. If you invite families then there’s a pretty good chance you’re going to want to come up with some other entertainment activities to keep everyone busy. Setting up board games can be a great way to get people to mingle while also keeping them entertained. Of course, you don’t have to end here as you can also play cards, Pictionary or other charade inspired games. If you’re sure a group of people are interested in a certain hobby then this is also an easy way to keep people happy. Scrapbooking is one of the more common choices and can keep guests occupied for hours. If you’re looking for a little help in the kitchen you can always ask guests to help out or have them decorate cupcakes and cookies! Of course, you also have to think about the game watchers who will be there early or those that will stay late or how to entertain if the half time show just isn’t worth watching. Organizing a football game is one of the easiest ways to keep everyone busy and will burn off the extra energy and calories. You can also work up a game of football trivia or find a Super Bowl playlist on your streaming radio for some dance time.

7. Kids’ Activities
A lot of people will hire a babysitter to watch their children during the big game. Save yourself and your friends and family some money by inviting everyone to the celebration. Kids can easily be brought into the party without having to make too many adjustments, so don’t stress out too much. Try to set up a little table for kids to sit down and color sports or team affiliated color pages when they get bored of the game. You can also set up a special area so they can decorate football themed cookies and cupcakes. When their energy starts to build up organize a fun game of touch or flag football outside. If there’s a major age difference then have two separate games, the kids will love watching each other play and the older kids can provide tips to younger players. Another fun idea for kids is to have them sell snacks to the rest of the guests. You can print out fake money and set up a concession stand where they can make popcorn, lemonade and serve the items you prepare for the guests. If all else fails, bring a smaller TV into the room so they can watch sports oriented cartoons or movies. You can also pull out sports related video games to add to the fun.

8. Projector
If you have a lot of guests stopping by and not a whole lot of TV screen then have no fear. Rather than going out and picking up a bigger television for the game, you can easily use your home projector to create an exciting game all of your guests will remember. The projector can be used on any blank wall, or if you plan on hanging outdoors for a barbeque then it can be projected onto the side of your home. The best thing is, if you don’t have cable or your cable company doesn’t offer the coverage you and your guests are looking for you can always stream the game straight from your phone. Since most phone packages give you an abundance of special features to choose from as well as full games, your guests will be pretty pleased with the amazing time you present for them you!

9. Coupons
Luckily enough, with the big game also comes some pretty Super Bowl sized coupons. Make sure you look for as many coupons as possible a week or two before the big game so you can collect everything you need to go shopping without worry. Most stores will provide you with coupons for common snacks and typical food choices like buffalo wings and hamburger patties. If you start your couponing early you should be able to plan out your meal around each of the coupons you have. Don’t be afraid to shop in the generic section too, as with a coupon you’ll also get more savings than imagined. Of course, when you do go shopping make sure to look around the store as there will be in store coupons next to some items!

10. Plan It Out
Before you take on the grocery store make sure you have concrete plans as this will help you avoid overspending whenever possible. By planning out your meal you’ll be less likely to splurge on many items and you’ll always have a backup plan. Keeping the entire party planned out will also avoid bland moments that may have you pulling out your debit card for a pizza just to keep the guests pleased. With everything on paper and ready for you to reference you won’t have to worry about straying from your budget or making a decision that will cost you too much.

This year you’ll be able to pull off an amazing Super Bowl party without a hitch. These ten tips will help you serve a spectacular variety of food while also ensuring your guests get to enjoy the game, mingle and have a little fun between activities. When it’s all said and done you can feel pretty proud over your incredible party even if you’re team didn’t come out as successful as you!

Wedding season is right around the corner and if you’ve been picked as the maid of honor there’s a good chance you have a bridal shower to plan. Of course, the bridal shower isn’t always assigned to the maid of honor, but can also be hosted by other friends, family members or even another bridesmaid . No matter who you are, there’s a good chance you’ll want to throw an amazing bash for your loved one even if you’re budget isn’t where your heart is. Have no fear though as there’s many ways to cut back on the initial cost of a bridal shower. With a few pinches here and there you’ll be able to show the bride in your life just how much she’s loved by those around her. By following these ten tips you’ll be ready to get your ideas off the paper and into the preparation stage!

1. Host at Home
One of the biggest expenditures when it comes to hosting any part is where you’re actually going to hold the event. A lot of people will rent out buildings or ask for a party room in a restaurant which could cost you a small fortune. Another option is to buy a permit to have the party in a park, which also means you’re out money you could be spending elsewhere. Rather than going to extra lengths try to host the party at home. If the weather is nice you can provide a more spacious area in the yard, or in a common recreation area if you live in an apartment. If the weather’s cold then move around furniture to accommodate the guests. It will only be for a short while, so it shouldn’t be a big inconvenience. If you can’t find space in your home then ask a friend, family member or even the bride if you can host it in their home. You may be surprised as to how many people will gladly open up their home to you.

2. Invitations
Invitations are a pretty important element when it comes to planning a bridal shower. However, this doesn’t mean half of your budget should be dedicated to a piece of paper that’s only going to be looked at a few times. Rather than sending out paper invitations you may want to consider an e-vite instead. There’s a lot of websites dedicated to making these fun electronic cards and many of them offer them for absolutely free. Of course, with some sites you may have to pay a small fee, but it won’t compare to anything you’d pay when you go the paper route. If you’re not feeling fancy then jump on the technological bandwagon and use your social media page to create an event and invite people to it. You may have to call or invite some people by mail, but the mass of the guest lists will get the invite without a problem and can even RSVP right on the page. Of course, if you really love the old fashioned vibe of the invitations then try make your own. You can use cheap crafting supplies to create an invitation that suites the bride perfectly. You could also find a printable invitation online and use these to take care of the invitation dilemma. If you do choose to buy professional invitations then make sure to look at bulk websites so you can get the best possible deal.

3. Skip the Theme
There’s usually a lot of pressure for the host to choose a theme for a bridal shower. It can be fun to work around a theme, especially if it means a lot to the bride. Themes aren’t the greatest way to cut back on cost though. Between buying special decorations to suit the theme and ordering plates and other must have party items that depict the theme, you’re going to end up spending a lot more money on items then you should. So, instead of coming up with a theme and throwing money into it, try to stick with a set of colors. To give it a more personal touch you may want to work with the bride’s wedding colors. This will make buying accessories easier and cheaper while still making the party look like a million bucks. By doing this you’ll knock money off the cost of plates, napkins, bags, streamers and other items you need for the party. It’ll also allow you to think out of the box with décor and won’t leave you confined in your choices which often leads to buying more expensive items.

4. Craft Party Favors
If you plan on passing out party favors then it may save you a whole lot of money to just craft them yourself. You can choose the items based on things you like to make, which can make the whole thing a lot of fun. One very popular bridal shower party favor is customized soap. You can find soap kits for incredibly cheap at just about any health or craft store, which will start you out on the right track. If you’re experienced with the craft then add whatever scents you like to it. You may even want to mold them into little brides and grooms or other wedding inspired shapes. Another popular gift is candles which can also easily be made with cheap kits. You can add the candles to mason jars or decorate them with adorable bride and groom tags! Of course, there’s many other ideas online so get creative!

5. Games
When it comes to parties, nothing keeps your guest entertained quite like games. This doesn’t mean you have to go out and spend a fortune on board games or bride inspired games though. There’s a lot of bridal games you can use that won’t cost you a lot of money. Some may even be accomplished simply by using supplies from your own home. When it comes to games you can use your imagination to come up with something fun, or you can browse the web or asks others for ideas. Some cultures have traditional games they play while many just wing it! One cheap and easy game is the toilet paper wedding dress. This only requires toilet paper and you can save by buying the cheap stuff! Simply ask guests to pair up and one will create a spectacular toilet paper wedding gown on the other. They can switch places afterwards. Another fun game, mostly aimed at the bride, is to set out ingredients for a cake and have the bride try to make it from scratch. If it works out well you’ve got extra food, if not then at least you got to share a laugh! You can also create trivia or true and false games using facts on the bride and groom. There’s a lot of other fun ideas online so start browsing early!

6. Wedding Prep
If your bridal shower is going to be closer to the wedding then try to use the time to get some wedding prep done. This is a great way to help get some of the massive amounts of prep work finished, while also keeping the guests entertained. You can easily set up a craft area for everyone to sit and chat as they create tiny bags and fill them with birdseeds, construct center pieces or even simply work on name tags for the seating chart. There’s probably a million different things that need to be done and this is one way to get them out of the way so you can concentrate on more important things. It might be hard to pull off the wedding prep if you’re having a larger party, so you may have to do some extra planning to make it work. However, setting up stations for the party is one way to help everyone mingle with different groups while also allowing people to do more while they’re at the party.

7. Potluck
Food can be pricey, especially if you’re looking to feed a lot of people over a few hours’ time. Rather than bearing all of the burden of providing the food, ask your guests to bring something along with them. When they RSVP they can sign up to bring something off of your list or you can give them free reign. This will allow you to feed everyone without sinking a lot more money into the party and it will allow anyone close to the bride to feel like they had a part in the planning of the party. If you want to spice things up then add a theme to the meal. You can ask people to bring foods that remind them of the bride, or you can even ask the bride to offer suggestions.

8. Share Stories/Advice
When everyone is tired from an afternoon of games and wedding prep have the guests sit down and relax together. During this quiet time you can all share stories about how you met the bride or special memories the two of you may share. Everyone can also offer up advice for her new married life which may be more precious than the gifts she receives. With such a broad spectrum of advice, the bride will be thankful that you planned out such an incredible time which will prepare her for the upcoming years. If everyone is having trouble coming up with something to talk about you can always write down topics on pieces of paper and have everyone draw one out. This will help break the ice and spark some amazing conversations. Of course, you could always ask the bride if she has any questions too, which is another great way to get the conversation rolling.

9. Keep It Small
You don’t have to invite everyone on the bride’s wedding guests list to the bridal shower. In fact, if you’re wanting to save on cash this should be the last thing on your mind. Instead, keep your invitation list small. Try to make sure close family and friends are on the list as well as all of the bridesmaids and some of the groom’s close family. This will help cut down on the amount of people you need to feed and entertain, which will certainly make your budget a whole lot happier. With fewer people at the party it will feel closer knit which can make the party cozier and easier to manage.

10. DIY Decorations
Decorations shouldn’t leave you hurting for money after the bridal shower. Instead, come up with your own décor items to keep your budget low. One great way to spruce up the party is to use white holiday lights. These will light up the room and bring attention to the glamour of the bride. You may also want to collect photos of the bride and groom throughout the years to place around the home. This will make the party décor much more personal which will make the bride feel incredible that you spent the time on her. Banners are another great way to customize your party without having to spend a lot. You can make one easily out of poster boards or rolled paper. This is where you can show off your creativity too! If you have your own garden then you may want to cut some flowers to add to the mix too! The more items you find for decorations at home the better off your budget and shower will be!

Planning a bridal shower should be more fun than stress so don’t let a tight budget get in your way of having a good time. With these ten tips you should knock out a lot of the expenditures which will allow you to enjoy your planning and enjoy the special time with the bride even more. With such a successful party, you’ll feel great about sending your bride into married life!

If you’re a big fan of the Mardi Gras celebration then it may be time to start planning out your trip. For many, Mardi Gras is a great time to blow off some steam and have a little fun before Easter arrives. With celebrations all over the world, many choose to visit New Orleans to show some love for the day of feasting. Of course, if you’re planning on celebrating the holiday you may get discouraged by the expensive price tag. From flights and hotels to food and drink, everything you need to buy to celebrate keeps adding up. There are a few ways to enjoy your good time without spending a lot of money though. With these ten tips you’ll be ready to have the time of your life on a budget that won’t dip into your hard earned savings.

1. Stay Close to Home
You don’t have to travel far to celebrate Mardi Gras. Although it may seem ideal to go to the major parties, you may find there’s plenty of fun to be had in your community. A lot of places will host their own special Mardi Gras celebration so make sure you see what your area has to offer before you make any financial decisions. If you live in or near a city then there’s a good chance you can get a taste of what goes on in New Orleans and other city’s that host big celebrations. With less people around you’ll be able to see and hear more than you would in populated cities and you won’t spend as much money. If there’s no celebrations near you then look around at cities that are a bit closer. If you can find a place within driving distance you’ll only have to worry about one night’s hotel and the cost of fueling up. This won’t even come close to what you’d spend when you involve airline tickets and high priced hotels.

2. Plan Ahead
One of the main keys to saving money when you travel is to plan ahead. With Mardi Gras less than a month away you may not be able to save a whole lot this holiday, but next year you’ll be prepared! It’s always best to ensure you get your airline and hotel secured several months in advance. This can be hard, especially if you’re not sure you can get time off work but the sooner you get your reservation in the better. Even if you’re not planning a trip to New Orleans, traveling to other cities can still be pricey if you’re not planning ahead. Large cities will still get you a better discount if you book ahead of time, so don’t wait. Making sure you have everything taken care of early will also ensure you have a hotel room when all of the action begins.

3. Public Transit
Mardi Gras celebrations are usually packed so the chances of you getting around in a car aren’t only slim but pretty pricey. If you’re traveling to enjoy Mardi Gras then public transportation is going to be your best friend. For a low price you can get a tourist or day pass which will allow you to go wherever you need without having to worry about the price of a taxi cab. Public transit will also allow you to have a good time without having to worry about who is going to drive you back to your hotel room. Even if you’re not going out of town for the celebration, public transportation can help save you money as you celebrate in your own city. With tourists out in full force you’re probably going to find yourself in bumper to bumper traffic more often than normal which costs you more and more in gas. Not to mention, when you go to the special event you’re more than likely going to have to drive around for a while to park. During events like this most places hike up the cost of parking too, which won’t do you any favors.

4. DIY Costume
No matter how or where you’re celebrating, one of the best aspects of the holiday is being able to dress up and have a good time. Retail costumes can cost a lot of money though which isn’t great for a budget. Rather than going out and buying your costume there’s a few quick and simple ways to make your own. The main themes surrounding Mardi Gras costumes tend to be royalty and jesters, which are fairly easy to make from common items found in the home. However, if you’re in a hurry or prefer to keep things simple then you may want to consider making a mask.There’s a lot of varieties to choose from too, so make sure you do a little research to see just what suits your style. If you have a little time and feel creative then you can easily work up a mask using paper mache; however if you’re in a rush then simply print out a mask template online and tape it to a straw, pencil or other item that could be used as a holder. These templates can be found online for free or a low cost, so let your browsing save the day, big time.

5. Research
One of the biggest problems many face is not knowing where to be and when to be there. This can be especially troublesome if you’re celebrating Mardi Gras with your family. Before you leave for your destination, may it be in your own city or at a larger celebration, look online to see if you can find schedules for events. Sometimes cities will map it out so families, especially those with children, will have their own area to celebrate while singles and anyone drinking will have another place. Knowing where to be in this situation can be important as it may ruin your celebration if you find yourself in the wrong area. It’s also important to know what’s going on as this will keep you entertained throughout the day. Most areas will have a parade and many also encourage musicians to play live shows. If you’re aware of everything on the itinerary, you’ll be ready to get the most out of the holiday while keeping your family safe.

6. Pack Snacks
Although February isn’t considered a hot month, it’s always important to have water on you whenever you go to an event. The case is the same when you celebrate Mardi Gras too. Before you leave for all the action try to pack a bag with water and some easy snacks for the family. This won’t just keep everyone happy and feeling good throughout the day, but will save you a whole lot of money. When you go to large events like this there’s a pretty good chance everything is going to be priced incredibly high. Yes, this sadly even includes water. With a bag full of snacks ready to go you can skip out on lunch and ensure everyone beats the mid-day hunger cravings without having to spend a lot of money. If you want to experience some food at the celebration then this is a great way to curve hunger until you find a good deal. However, with the right snacks you may not have to spend a penny while you’re out.

7. Look for Deals
Mardi Gras tends to center around drinking during most celebrations, but that doesn’t mean you have to spend a lot of money to join the crowd. Before things get too busy try to surf around the Mardi Gras area and see what bars are offering deals. Generally, happy hours are the best way to go, but make sure you look around the area and see if the bar isn’t just offering the same price as its competition during happy hour. You may also see if you can find a place that offers a drink and appetizer combo as this will help keep you full while also ensuring you don’t drink too much before going out in public. During the celebration there will also be many vendors selling handcrafts. These can be a lot of fun to buy, but use your common sense when you want something. If the price seems incredible then it’s probably not going to be worth it. You can also quickly browse around craft sites to see if anyone else is selling the same type of crafts for a much smaller price.

8. Visit Friends
If you’re feeling burdened by your budget then you may want to call around and ask if any friends or family members will be celebrating. This will allow you to still get to have some fun while also spending time with those you care about. Going to a party your friends or family are hosting can be even more fun than traveling to the actual event. In fact, it may be a great time to catch up with one another while enjoying good food, some drinks and amazing conversation. Not to mention, apart from chipping in for the party, you won’t have to rearrange your budget to have a good time.

9. Dining
Mardi Gras is filled with delicious food choices that will make your holiday spectacular. If you plan on going out then look for groupon deals or find a great restaurant with reasonable prices. However, if you’re staying in you can really go all out on your meal! Try looking up some recipes to see if anything strikes your fancy. There will be a wide variety of items to choose from that won’t cost a lot to make. Of course, with Mardi Gras you’re also going to come across some pricier dishes, like those that call for shrimp, but you can always substitute this ingredient for something else or leave it out entirely. One of the best and easiest things to make for Mardi Gras is Beignets which are simple to make and won’t cost you a small fortune. If you’re on a tight budget then these foods can easily be snacked on all day or served at a party. They’re also great as Mardi Gras treats for children!

10. Host a Party
When all else fails, throw your own Mardi Gras bash! This doesn’t mean you have to spend a fortune as there’s ways to entertain that won’t cost you a lot. Try asking your guest to bring in their own food or drink. Potlucks are perfect for allowing people to try new things and they take the burden of food away from the host. When it comes to music you won’t have to look any further than online radio as there will be numerous Mardi Gras playlist to choose from at no charge to you. If you’re low on decorations then print some fun Mardi Gras masks off the internet and tape them to the wall. You can also buy bulk Mardi Gras beads from most dollar or discount stores. These can be used as décor and party favors. With all the basic components covered, you should be set for a party your friends will be talking about for years to come!

When it comes to celebrating Mardi Gras you don’t have to keep your budget in the front of your mind in order to have a good time. With these ten tips you’ll ensure you’ll be set for an amazing time without actually having to pay the large price tag for it. This Mardi Gras is going to be all about when and where you feel like celebrating, rather than how much you’ve put on your credit card!

Let’s face it, no one really likes spending hours upon hours grocery shopping each year. Between working out your food budget, cooking meals and shopping, it may seem as if food is the only thing on your mind! There’s a few ways you can avoid spending as much time and money at the grocery store though, which will help you enjoy the whole food process a little more. With a few food preservation tips you should have the ability to stock up on several weeks’ worth of food without having to worry about it going bad! These tips will not only keep you out of the store for longer, but will ensure your food budget as a chance to grow before you have to return to the dreaded shopping experience. So, grab your eco-friendly shopping bags and enjoy adding time and money back to your life!

1. Organize the Refrigerator
A lot of family’s have problems with groceries simply because of the way they store their food. This can lead to money straight down the drain, but thankfully there’s a pretty easy solution for the problem. Every week you should take a few minutes to organize your refrigerator. Knowing what you have inside of the cold box is pretty crucial to keeping your food fresh and edible. It will also keep you from having to keep making trips to the store for items you probably already have. When it comes to your food shelves, try to keep foods that aren’t going to store for long in a place that everyone can see them. For instance, rather than tossing all your fruits and vegetables in a drawer, place them on a shelf where everyone can see the options they have. Fruit and vegetables that are stored in a drawer should be rotated often as this will ensure older produce will be eaten sooner than the items you’ve just purchased. After all, just one bad fruits can destroy a whole batch! Milk and meats should also be placed on a shelf, rather than in a drawer or on the side door. This will help you know what meats you have to cook and will also ensure the milk stays at a consistent temperature which will keep it fresher longer. With your items organized and ready to go you shouldn’t have a problem knowing what needs to be purchased and what you have in stock already.

2. Paper Towel Technique
If you’ve ever bought a bag of salad only to find that that it’s bad the very next day then you may want to try out the paper towel technique as soon as you open up your next bag. Leafy greens are hard to keep fresh, even when you’re entirely devoted to the task. This can be a major problem if you plan on stocking up on these items. There is one way to help keep them as fresh as possible though. When you open your bag of greens slip in a dry paper towel. This will pull the moisture out of the bag which works to keep things fresh for longer. You may even want to consider moving your greens to an air tight storage container to help cut down on even more rot. Make sure you replace the paper towel often though as this will help ensure you can enjoy fresh greens for so much longer.

3. Recycle
There’s a pretty good chance you go through a lot of plastic bags, paper bags, plastic wrap and other recyclables on a daily basis. You don’t have to let these items go to waste though! Instead, use them to help your food stay fresher for longer. When you separate your produce to place on the counter or in the refrigerator try to put the different produce in plastic bags. This will help add more protection in case one of the other items begins to rot before the others. This will also make it easier to keep an eye on your produce as you won’t have to sort through drawers to decide what needs to be thrown out. If you like to buy mushrooms then remove them from the plastic and place them in a paper grocery bag or paper lunch bag. This helps keep them tasting delicious for much longer. Asparagus also benefits greatly from plastic bags. Simply place them upright like a bouquet of flowers and place a plastic bag over the top of them. If you love dicing items like onions, herbs or peppers then place your leftovers in a plastic bottle and place them in the freezer. Finally, use some plastic wrap to place around the stem of a bunch of bananas, it’ll keep them edible for longer.

4. Pre-Plan Meals
Planning ahead can be one of the easiest ways to save money and time. If you’re looking to get out of grocery shopping for a while then make a list of meals you’d like to have and bulk shop for them. When you get home cut up the produce and separate the meat per meal then add each of the preplanned meals into a ziplock or food saver bag with the necessary spices. Once you’ve got everything ready to go then slap on a label and pop it in the freezer. With each of the meal plans perfectly portioned out and ready to go you can easily throw it in the crockpot or oven for an easy way to have dinner ready with little effort. The best thing is, you don’t have to shop for one specific meal at a time, which means you can use all of the items you buy rather than having bits and pieces of the recipe left over for waste! If you shop with frugality in mind you may even be able to get a month’s worth of food together in one shopping trip!

5. Know How to Store It
Produce doesn’t come with an instruction manual, so it’s often hard to know just how to store things! There’s lot of ways you can keep your food longer though! For instance, you should never store potatoes and onions together as this will cause the potatoes to sprout and the onions to rot. Instead, store potatoes with apples as this keeps both items fresher for longer and store onions individually in panty hose. If you love fresh tomatoes then don’t just leave them sitting on the counter or taking up room in the refrigerator. Instead, place them stem down in a cardboard box or paper bag. This ensures they keep their freshness so you can enjoy them for much longer. Some of your items belong on the counter, such as melons and avocados, while other items need to be kept cool in the refrigerator, like carrots, corn and jalapenos. Of course, if you’re a fan of ginger then you may want to put it straight in the freezer to keep it usable. Other items, such as broccoli, celery and lettuce can be wrapped in tin foil and placed in the refrigerator for a fresher taste. If you buy a lot of root vegetables then place them in a box or pot of sand to keep them fresh. Also, if you find yourself slicing items like tomatoes or lemons and saving the rest for later then you may want to look into food savers which clip onto the sliced produce to preserve it for longer!

6. Mason Jars
When it comes to produce, nothing will make it last longer than the amazing mason jar. If you have an abundance of certain foods then look up some recipes and store them in the mason jars. For instance, if you find a great deal on tomatoes then you may want to try making your own salsa, marina or even V8 which can help stretch your groceries even further. You may also want to consider making jams, or preserved fruit to last you when the foods are out of season. Mason jars are also great for making fruit infused waters or teas. You can stretch your dairy products even further by adding them to coffee in a mason jar and storing it for a quick breakfast. You may also want to make overnight oatmeal or other easy to heat dishes which can be stored for longer in these jars.

7. Vinegar Wash
In many areas you may find your produce is bad after only a few days. This can be terrible especially if a lot of your budget goes towards these healthy items. One way to help fix this problem is to clean the produce when you bring it home from the store. Simply add vinegar to some water in the sink or a big bowl and let the product soak in it. This will not only clean the items, but also helps preserve them because it removes the chemicals that linger from farms, storage or sorting facilities as well as the grocery store. Some people even claim their produce lasted weeks longer than it normally would have using this method!

8. Preserve Dairy
Dairy products are often the fastest items to go, which is unfortunate since they tend to also be some of the more expensive items. There’s a few ways to make these items last a bit longer though. For starters, make sure to store and dairy item inside the refrigerator rather than on the door. This will keep cooling even which helps the product last longer. If you have trouble using dairy up before it goes bad then sprinkle a touch of salt into your milk or cream. This helps keep it fresh a bit longer. Also, if you slice cheese often then take a little butter and smear it on the cut end. This will prevent it from hardening so your cheese stays tasty.

9. Bulk Buys
If you hate shopping then buying in bulk is one of the best and cheapest ways to get things done. Make a list of the items the family uses a lot of and shop for them at your favorite bulk store. With an abundance of the items in the home you can easily store them to ensure you won’t have to go and buy them again. Produce is one of the easiest items when it comes to bulk buys. Simply pick up the item, chop it up and place it in the freezer once you’ve placed it in a sealed bag or container. This will ensure you always have the items you need when it comes to a special recipe. You may also take to making your favorite snack foods in bulk thanks to large bags of sugar, flower and other baking supplies. Simply freeze what’s unused and you’re good to go for some time!

10. Clean
One of the fastest ways to destroy your groceries is to put them into a dirty refrigerator or onto a dirty surface. It is important to take the time and clean out your refrigerator and other storage areas before you bring in new foods. Often we just forget or keep putting it off, but as germs and bacteria begin to build up you may find your food goes bad faster and faster. Simply wiping down the refrigerator and cabinets can add life to your foods. You may also want to consider adding baking soda to the refrigerator to help remove odors that destroy the quality of your food!

Preserving your foods is a great way to go into the New Year with a bit more money and a lot more time. With these ten simple tips you may find you worry less about shopping and your meals and snacks taste a whole lot better. Not to mention, there’ll be less waste which is great for the environment! So, enjoy feeding your family without stressing over the shopping process or spending too much at the grocery store.

Looking into the New Year it is clear that 2015 is going to be filled with an abundance of beautiful astronomical scenes. So, why wait to get into astronomy? Many people don’t consider taking to astronomy as a hobby because there’s often a large price tag attached to it. However, if you’re really interested in getting a start on this fascinating science there’s a few tricks you can use to avoid the high cost without having to miss out on all the fascinating happenings. With these ten tips you may find yourself searching the night sky in no time all. With all of the beautiful events speculated for the coming year, you’ll be so impressed with your new hobby that you may even consider getting rid of cable!

1. Start Basic
Often, when someone decides to get into a hobby they tend to go all out believing it will be more beneficial in the long run. Astronomy offers a wide selection of books, guides, programs and telescopes that can get you started off, but the price tag is a bit high. Rather than buying the most expensive items as soon as possible you should start on the more basic spectrum. You can usually get a basic telescope at a great price at any online or local retail store. You may also be able to find one at a second hand store. The basic telescope will allow you to ease into the hobby, thus giving you time to decide if you would even spend large portions of time on it if given the chance. It will also give you a chance to get used to the basic features of a telescope. Sometimes when you buy the most expensive model around you may find it confusing which often puts people off of the hobby entirely. You may also want to try the hobby with binoculars. This won’t give you as much seeing power, but it’s a great start especially if you don’t have a lot of space.

2. Shop Used
There’s no law saying you have to go out and buy a brand new telescope just because you’ve decided to take an interest in astronomy. Rather, you may find your best deal at a used store or auction. It doesn’t matter if you’re just starting out or if you’ve been into the hobby for quite some time, typically you can find a used telescope at a great price. Although your options may be a tad limited locally, a few quick searches on the internet might lead you to a price that will leave you doing the happy dance. Before you buy a used telescope make sure you’ve looked it over or the seller has had it appraised. Appraisal could be key if you’re buying the item online as it will ensure you’re going to get what you’ve been asked to pay for. Sometimes a telescope may not have all of the accessories it originally came from, but some items you may want to have brand new, or you can find them for very cheap online.

3. Use an App
Living in the modern world is pretty awesome, especially when you want to try something new without spending a small fortune. There’s a lot of apps available for anyone looking to get into astronomy and quite a few of them are free to a very low cost! In fact, if you’re just starting out and want to know more about planets, constellations and other items you see then all you have to do is move your phone or tablet over the night sky and the universe will open up for you. This is perfect for those just starting to identify constellations! Of course, if you live in a city which makes its pretty hard to see stars then you may actually be able to use the app to see what normally would be there. This is great for those special events that many city dwellers are forced to miss out on due to the city’s ample lights!

4. Visit the Library
When it comes to unlocking information, your library is a great place to start. Sure, we all have internet access that can pretty much find whatever we want, but a librarian can actually become your tour guide to the wonderful world of space. Most librarians will be able to direct you to the best books on the subject and may even be able to provide you with a detailed list of things to research based on the topic of your interest. Better yet, some libraries will actually host star gazing days. You may end up watching the stars move on a ceiling, but the experience is both educational and rewarding. If you live in an area that has great star visibility then your local library might actually host star gazing events for the community, so make sure to ask around to see if your library is one of these. If not, you’ll still have free access to the numerous books as well as scholarly databases that your library can provide for you!

5. Planetarium
If stargazing is your favorite way to spend your spare time then a planetarium may be the perfect hang out for you! Not all communities have a planetarium so you may want to look and see if there is one nearby you. Typically, you’ll find these connected to schools or colleges, but occasionally there are standalone planetariums that cater to the public. When you’ve found what you’re looking for check out the pricing. Some will actually offer free entrance, especially if they are school or government funded, whilst others will charge a fee. You may be in luck if they have a free night though, but if not try to look for discounts wherever possible. At the planetarium you will be able to get basic information on outer space which will satisfy your star gazing needs. Many can even give you a closer look at stars that are closer to our own solar system. On special nights you may also be able to view the night sky in the planetarium, so make sure you buy tickets in advance whenever you want to catch a meteor shower up close!

6. Build a Telescope
If you want to create a fun science experiment for the family then make it your mission to build a telescope. Now, this may sound overly complicated so don’t stress out just yet. There’s different levels of telescopes you can build at home. One simple one that’s designed for kids can actually be made out of recyclables like a toilet paper roll. Of course, if you’re feeling adventurous you can step it up several notches, but work within your comfort zone. When it comes to building a telescope make sure you look for your materials at used stores and scrap or junk yards. This should help you find most of what you need without causing you to spend a fortune. You may also want to only choose DIY telescopes that you can build with your own tools or hands as paying for someone’s help may cost as much as actually buying a pricier telescope. Try to do some browsing online to see if anything strikes your fancy. You should be able to find video and written instructions that will guide you through each process.

7. Shop Wisely
Picking up a new hobby can be intimidating which leads many people to purchase items they don’t need. Before you go out and buy something, like a telescope, do some research on the item. You’ll find a lot of different brands out there and each will have their own feature. If you’re just interested in checking out the stars then you might end up paying too much for a telescope that’s never going to be used to its full potential. Likewise, if you end up buying a telescope that doesn’t meet your needs then you’re going to end up losing money when you have to sell it and buy something more suitable. You should also look at reviews before you settle on one such item. These usually help guide people in the right direction, especially if you can find a review that seems to fit your shopping situation. You should research other items too though, such as books and programs to help along the way! With the right shopping skills you’ll come out financially on top.

8. Free Classes
We live in a world filled with knowledge so utilize it as much as you can. Sometimes local colleges or planetariums will host free class night to anyone interested in learning more about the world outside of our world. Although these classes may be rare, finding a class online isn’t. Many colleges now release recorded lessons for students and the public, which can come in handy when you’re looking to learn. From apps to actual college websites, you should be able to find a class, or even full semesters worth of work, when you browse astronomy courses online. With these handy tools by your side you’ll know how to navigate the night sky in no time at all!

9. Follow Science News
If you’re simply wanting to catch the most action, rather than spend hours looking at stars then science news is the way to go. You can get basic science news on most news sites, but if you’re looking for astronomy related items then you may need to look on specialized pages. There’s an abundance of science websites on the net as well as those on astronomy, so help yourself to the news by visiting them daily or signing up for their newsletter. One of the best websites to sign up for is NASA as you’ll get the top news as well as suggestions to help improve the amount of fun you have with the hobby. With your subscriptions ready to go you’ll be alerted whenever something big is happening. Of course, if you have social media then simply follow or like a page that provides you with astronomy news!

10. Naked Eye
One of the cheapest and easiest ways to enjoy astronomy is through the naked eye. You don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy star gazing, nor do you need anything special to see some meteor showers, shooting stars and planets. If you live in the city then it may seem impossible to enjoy star gazing, so do yourself a favor and take a trip out of town. You may want to plan a camping trip or simply go for a long drive until there’s no people around. With the lack of lighting available you’ll be able to see some of the best scenes that the universe has to offer. Trips like this are also a great way to bond with the whole family, so it might be a good idea just to get away from it all and enjoy something spectacular together. If you’re not sure where to find the best spots to star gaze then look on the internet, or simply hop in the car and drive until you find just what you’re looking for.

Outer space is still a big mystery to us, but looking up at the night sky can be one of the most beautiful things we experience. When it comes to astronomy you shouldn’t have to shudder away because of the price tag attached to it. In fact, with these ten tips you should be on top of the latest happenings while getting to see all of the beautiful things headed our way in 2015!

With a New Year to look forward to you may be thinking of how you’re going to accomplish your New Year’s Resolution without spending a fortune. If you’ve decided to cut down or stop smoking this year then you’re in luck as there’s many great ways to cheaply quit the habit. Although many people may advise a lot of expensive remedies, medications, patches and counseling, there’s many ways you can avoid these expenditures without sacrificing your ability to quit. Before you realize it you’ll be smoke free and your bank account won’t have been depleted to get you there! So, toss out your last pack of cigarettes and get ready to save money and improve your health greatly.

1. Ask For Help
This may be one of the hardest aspects of quitting smoking especially if you don’t like to ask others to help you. However, it can be one of the most crucial steps in the process and can even save you a lot more money. Before you stop smoking you should talk to your doctor about the process as well as steps you can take to lessen the stress of quitting. Make sure to mention you’re sticking to a budget so your doctor can help work around your financial needs. With a special referral you may even be able to get your insurance to cover medications or counseling so you won’t have to pay anything out of pocket. Apart from the doctor, you should always discuss your plan to stop smoking with your friends, family and co-workers. This will allow people to know you’re going to be tense and over stressed and will hopefully encourage others to avoid smoking around you. It will also ensure you have at least one person to talk to or to keep your distracted when the cravings get to be too much.

2. Know the Right Time
Although New Years is here and you probably want to get a jump start on your resolution, it may not be the best time to stop smoking. In fact, if you’re under a lot of stress or aren’t content with where you’re at then you might want to hold off until you’re actually feeling happy. Sure, no one wants to complicate the positive times in life, but when it comes to smoking its best to do it when you’re feeling good. Quitting on a whim can cause you to start right back up which will mean all your efforts will be for nothing. So, wait until a stressful period has passed and then try your luck. With the lack of stress preventing you from wanting a cigarette, your cravings will die down sooner so you can move on without having to spend a fortune on aids to help you stop.

3. Get Busy
A lot of smokers will pick up a cigarette out of boredom, while others feel cravings more when they’re not doing anything. So, avoid cravings by keeping yourself busy as much as you can for the first few weeks. Many smokers like to take up jogging during this time. The cardio workout will help clear out your lungs faster and will make cravings disappear. Another popular task in crocheting which ensures the hands are busy. With your concentration on your craft and your hands holding the needles you should forget about the cravings more and more. Picking up an instrument is another great distraction as it keeps your hands and your mind busy. Music is also great for relaxation which calms the body and reduces your need for the cigarette. Of course, there’s an abundance of things you can do to keep yourself busy, so follow your instincts and find something that will make you happy.

4. Snack Healthy
You may not realize how key your diet can be when it comes to quitting smoking. Many people crave cigarettes after eating certain foods, so if you know your triggers then try to avoid them for the first couple of months. Fast food and coffee tend to be some of the more common items that cause cigarette cravings. In fact, you may want to consider cutting out coffee for at least 2 months while you quit smoking as the excess caffeine could give you the jitters until the nicotine has worked out of your system. Rather than eating greasy and salty foods try to stick with a healthier diet. Fruits and vegetables have been said to detour the cravings of cigarettes substantially, so you might want to try eating healthier meals whenever possible. If you’re not a fan of vegetables then try creating healthy smoothies or juices that can substitute meals when you’re having trouble sticking to your goal. Another great food to eat is any shelled nut. These foods are healthy and filled with protein, but they’ll also distract your hands. When you feel a craving come on simply grab 3 or 4 nuts and peel away the shell. It’ll keep your mind off the craving while the food helps out your health. You may also want to consider snacks like lolly pops that allow you to keep flavor in your mouth while also keeping your hands busy.

5. Switch to a Vaporizer
If you’re not quite ready to take on quitting cold turkey then the vaporizer may be the best way to go. Vaporizers allow you to set your nicotine levels so you can start high and gradually lower how much nicotine you’re getting in a day. This will allow you to limit your withdrawals so quitting won’t be as challenging. Vaporizers will also keep up with the physical habit of smoking so you won’t have to find a way to combat the need to hold something in your hands until you’re ready to quit once and for all. The best thing about vaporizers is many companies will actually give you a coupon to get a free one which will help you save even more money. With cigarettes and their accessories off your shopping list you’ll spend a fraction of the amount on vaporizer accessories. You may even be able to find special flavors that will make transitioning from cigarette to something new even easier. Vaporizers also take away many of the harmful aspects of smoking so you’ll be doing your lungs a favor the moment you decide to toss the cigarettes.

6. Avoid Smokers
One problem with quitting smoking is it’s hard to do it when the world around you carries on with the habit. Smelling or watching other people smoke could bring back the craving so you may want to avoid smokers until you feel comfortable that you’ve kicked the habit for good. This may be hard as smokers are everywhere, but there are a few steps you can take to eliminate the temptation from your life. For instance, rather than stepping outside during your office break try doing office friendly stretches or chatting with colleagues in the break room. You could also walk the stairs during break to ensure you get some exercise which will help avoid cravings. You may also want to steer clear of parties for the time being unless you know it’s a non-smoker oriented party. On the weekends, try to stay in and clean or work on a hobby. If you do decide to go out then make sure you stay busy and visit friends that don’t smoke or those you know won’t smoke in front of you. Also, when you visit a café make sure to eat inside where smoking is not allowed.

7. Keep a Journal
Another key element to kicking smoking is to keep a journal. You may not think this is helpful in the beginning, but writing will help you work out your frustrations so you can get out some of your stress without taking to a cigarette. When you start in your journal make sure to write down how you’re feeling, the amount of cravings you had in the day or what you did to avoid them. As you start to feel better about not smoking then you can look back on your journey. Of course, keeping the journal may also help you feel inspired to keep going, especially when you look back at the more difficult days of your quitting experience. With all of your tips and techniques written down you’ll feel proud of your accomplishment and may even be able to help others in the future.

8. Get Rid of Accessories
When you stop smoking you may find that seeing all of your smoking accessories might make the cravings turn up again. Rather than leaving the items out like you’re planning on smoking again, you should get rid of them or pack them up. One of the biggest items to get rid of is ash trays. They smell like cigarettes and could entice you to want to pick up the habit again. If you’re attached to the ash trays then pack them away in a secure box until you feel comfortable with showing them again. Matches and lighters may be trickier to deal with since you often need them for household use. If you’re having a hard time seeing them place them somewhere up high or hidden away in a drawer until you feel comfortable with them being out again.

9. Join a Support Group
Friends and family are great when you’re trying to kick a habit, but sometimes you need more help than you bargained for. There’s countless support groups online and off that can help you stop the cravings and ensure you don’t pick up the habit again. You might want to start by asking your doctor or counselor for recommendations; however, often they can only provide you with groups that might cost a small fee. If this is the case then you can always try your community center as they will often have information that you can use to find a group at no cost to you. You may also want to look online. There’s many websites that cater to your needs or you could join a special group on social media which will give you convenient access to support whenever you need it.

10. Be Reasonable
One of the top things you can do when quitting smoking is use your reasoning skills. Clearly there’s reasons why you want to stop so write them down on index cards and keep them with you. When you’re feeling an urge to smoke pull out the notes and read why you don’t want to cave in to the craving. If your health is at the top of the list then add a picture of a healthy lung and a smoker’s lung for a dramatic and affective reason to stop. You could also come up with ways your smoking affects those around you in negative ways. Money is another big contributor. Try putting the money you’d spend on cigarettes each day into a jar to remind you how much you’re saving by not giving in. You could also write down the costs of cigarettes as well as the costs of something you really want, which could inspire you to save more. The more reasons you have the better off you’ll be!

Smoking doesn’t have to control your life forever. If your New Year’s resolution is to stop smoking, or you just want to quit for yourself then there’s never been a better time to try. With these ten tips you should be able to cut down on the amount of money you have to spend in order to quit while ensuring you don’t feel the urge to go back to your smoking lifestyle. Once the cravings have left you’ll be rewarded with better health and even more money to enjoy!

If you plan on shedding some pounds or bulking up for your New Year’s resolution then a gym membership might be the key to your success. The only problem is, gym memberships can cost you a pretty penny if you’re not quite certain what you’re looking for. There are a lot of ways to avoid the high costs of working out at a gym though, so don’t stress out just yet! With these ten tips you can easily find the membership you need to meet your goals while also keeping to your budget. So, don’t work out your piggy bank just to find a convenient way to meet your health goals, because these tips will have you on your way to success in no time at all.

1. Know When to Buy
If you’re looking to start on your resolution right away, one of the smartest things you can do is put the idea on hold. During the cold months more people flock to gyms and order memberships because it’s not convenient to work out outside. Due to the demand prices go way up which means you’re going to lose out if you’re looking to save money. The best time to get your membership is during the hotter months of summer. As winter passes people will want to get in shape in order to get their body’s looking good for the summer, so early spring isn’t exactly ideal either. With summer, people are outside moving around which means the gyms won’t see the same amount of business. Thus, it’s time for you to swoop in and buy your yearly pass before the prices spike back up for autumn. Don’t worry though as there’s plenty of ways to work out during the off-season months so you can prepare for your intense workout in the gym.

2. YMCA
There’s a lot of name brand gyms out there which will cost you quite a bit of money for a membership. You don’t have to go straight for these gyms though, even if they seem to offer you the best deals. Instead, you may want to check out your local YMCA or other community group. The YMCA has offers the community workout equipment, classes and in many cases a pool in order allow the community to keep fit and healthy. The best thing is, the YMCA doesn’t cost an arm and a leg, so you won’t have to worry about your budget being spent after one membership. You can always call and check around to see if a better deal is offered, but you may not be able to get as many services as the YMCA offers for a price as low they offer. The YMCA also offers a nice family environment, so you won’t have to worry about childcare or your older children getting bored while you work out.

3. Be Specific
A lot of gyms offer pretty generic packages which may not cater to your gym needs. It’s important to be specific as to what you’re looking for when it comes to purchasing a gym membership. Some companies won’t stray from their packages, so you may end up paying for items you never use or you may end up not getting what you want out of a package. Either way you won’t get your money’s worth out of your package. Try comparing different options in different gyms to see which will actually cost you less for exactly what you want. You may also consider asking if you can do a custom plan, so you can get the classes or gym time you need without paying for a generic package of items you may not be ready for. When you choose your plan you may also want to discuss your fitness level as this could also affect the price.

4. Alumni Status
If you’ve recently graduated or are still enrolled in a college or university then you may be able to get a great deal on a gym membership. Many schools will actually open up their gyms to the public in order to bring in more revenue, so make sure to call your school’s gym and see what the policy is. Often, students will be able to get into the gym at no cost, which is a huge benefit as many school gyms have just about anything you could possibly need to get in shape. If you’re an alumni then you should be entitled to a major discount, although some schools will still allow recent grads to take to the gym at no extra cost. On the other hand, many schools will also make deals with local gyms so students can get a large discount off the services. Make sure you present your student ID card whenever you check out a new gym as they may offer you a student membership or a discount that will save you big time.

5. Price Match
Many people have a preferred gym they’d like to go to, but sometimes the price just doesn’t meet the budget. If this is the case then do a little shopping around before you decide on paying the hefty price for the gym of your dreams. Sometimes, if you find a lower price on a similar deal a gym may actually match the price. You may have to bring in a sales ad or even a payment plan for the other gym in order to prove the price, but if the gym you love will honor the deal you’ll be able to get just what you need for the price that matched your budget. Of course, not all gyms will do this, so don’t be afraid to take the better deal to your second choice. Before you know it you’ll eventually strike gold which will help you work out for less many than advertised.

6. Read the Fine Print
Many gyms will tack on fees to services you won’t ever use. For instance, a childcare fee is one of the more common items you’ll find on your receipt. However, if you don’t have children you’re paying this for no reason at all! So, rather than sign away, take the time to talk to the gym about each little fee. You may be surprised as to how many you can take off of you bill so you won’t have to pay for items you’re never going to use. The key here is to comb through your contract though. If you don’t have time to do it while you’re at the gym then ask for a copy so you can read it on your own time. When you’re sure it’s the gym you want to work with then schedule a meeting and see if you can get some negotiations in. This will ensure you’re only paying for what you need rather than childcare, classes and spa services you might never touch.

7. Insurance/Employee Discounts
One key factor that a lot of people look over is their employee benefits as well as their insurance discounts. Both of these items can offer up a world of discounts that make your workouts go even further than you ever thought possible. Before you sign up for a gym talk to your boss or personnel office to see if there are any gyms they get deals with. Many employers will offer discounts on these items in order to keep their employees healthy. Some businesses may even provide passes for employees, which will save you time and money. You may also want to talk to your insurance company. Some companies will give you discount passes for gyms while others will lower your rates when you prove you’re a member in a gym. This will also help save money while helping you reach your goals with the money saving incentives.

8. Pay Upfront
When it comes to saving money on a gym one of your best bets may actually be to hand over the money upfront. Many gyms will offer bulk deals to customers which actually ends up saving quite a bit of money over time. Although low monthly rates may seem appealing, by paying the lump sum when you join the gym you could save over a hundred dollars. Sometimes, rates fluctuate which can cause you to have to pay more during prime months. Whereas, when you go ahead and get the payment in you actually reduce the price you pay each month, thus saving you big time. Many people don’t like doing this because there’s months in which they may not use the gym. In most cases, you can put a hold on your membership so if you plan on being out of town for a month, or become ill or have surgery then your membership will be paused so you can carry out the months when you can actually make it to the gym.

9. Online Access
Living in a digital world brings many benefits to anyone looking for an outstanding workout. If you’re not much of an equipment person than joining an online access program may be right up your alley. These websites charge you a low monthly fee, or one bulk price, and provide you with access to support groups, workout tools and online classes. Online access is perfect for anyone that loves to workout at home rather than a facility as well as anyone that likes to squeeze in a workout during lunch breaks at work, or whenever a free moment arises. The classes range from intense cardio and lifting to pilates, yoga and beginner courses. The best thing is you can experience a variety of workouts without having to follow a set schedule. You can even do the work outs over and over if you find one that suits your style. Of course, if you’re looking to save even more money then you may want try looking up free subscriptions as there are many websites dedicating to making others healthy. A lot of gyms will also offer free online downloads to give prospective customers a look at what they have to offer.

10. PassBook
If you don’t like to feel tied down with a contract or don’t always have time to spend at a gym then you may want to check into PassBook. This amazing product is presented to consumers by the American Health and Fitness Association so you’ll know you’re getting a good deal with it. The book is $75 per year, but if provides you with a large variety of free classes, workout time, passes to gyms and other health seminars that will help you get in shape and stay healthy. Each of the passes can be redeemed for 2 or more visits so if you like a gym you can always go back. The PassBook will also give you access to many places you may not have known about or might not have otherwise visited. You might find that after a year of the PassBook you’ll have discovered new workouts and exercise habits that make you feel incredible. The best thing is, the PassBook holds so many amazing vouchers that you’ll probably be able to do something each day of the year without having to spend any extra money. The PassBook is designed for your city, so see if your area qualifies and enjoy a year of getting fit and trying new things.

Joining a gym doesn’t mean you should lose out on all of your spending money. There’s a wide variety of options out there to choose from, so you don’t have to lose every penny you have in the name of getting fit. With these ten tips you should find yourself loving your gym time while ensuring your New Year’s resolution will be accomplished!