Preparing Ahead of Time

Since finding out about my hubby's big promotion, I have started preparing for the celebration party that we are required hosting.  See how it works is when one makes E-7 the newly promoted Soldier is "suppose" to hold a celebration and spend the money that you received with your pay increase.  So not happening here!  I am sorry but to spend that much money on food, drinks, and cake is absurd; or at least it is to me.  However, they (other Army Soldiers) say that if you are promoted with someone else during that month you are to split the difference.  Again, that is too much money.  So I have come up with a nice frugal plan.  Or I hope it is a good frugal plan.

A written plan can help you see what you need to do, and what to plan for.  Listed below are a few things that I have came up with already:

1.  Have a menu plan.
   
2.  Prepare most of the meals yourself.

3.  When making grocery list, try to budget in an item or two.


4.  Coupons, coupons, coupons, coupons!

5.  Ask for help from friends.

6.  Pray that another Soldier will be promoted during the same time and that this Soldier(s) will be frugal.

Preparing ahead can really help save money in the long run because there is no last minute running around looking for items and then paying higher prices.  You know what coupons to look for and also you can ask that friend of yours who makes scrumptious cheesecakes to maybe prepare couple or a few for you. 

What do you think?  Do you have any other suggestions to add to this list?

For more Frugal Friday tips jump on over to Life As Mom.