Let’s get thrifty today, shall we? Get pumped to find the best deals and to support your LOCAL neighbors/businesses! Who’s with me?

Here are THREE THRIFTY TRICKS I’ve inherited from my Mom in order to reduce spending on upcoming events, holidays, parties, etc. Get excited!

1) Second-hand Sales!

One mans junk is another mans treasure, right? Plus, you save boo-coo bucks when shopping second-hand! My main go-to at second hand stores are: baby/kids clothes. Those adorable little rugrats grow SO fast! They barely stay in one size for long. So why spend FULL PRICE on something they may wear once…or possibly not at all?

Also, when they get bigger and more mobile, if you’re kids are anything like mine, there are holes, stains, and limited wear on certain clothes! So why spend full price, especially with play clothes!

I have found some AMAZING consignment stores! Now some didn’t have a lot to get excited about, but others were loaded. You’ve got to just shop around until you find a keeper!

Garage Sales are also included in this! Sadly in the Midwest, we only have a handful of months where we can enjoy such shopping adventures! So take advantage of those opportunities!

Right now, with the pandemic, going anywhere isn’t much of an option. BUT there are many websites or Facebook pages that include second-hand sales! Browse online to find some awesome LOCAL steals!

2) POST Season Snags!

All you planners out there, listen up! Take inventory DURING the season for what you may need next year, make a list and this may be the most helpful and effective trick for you!

So, if you’re looking for Christmas decor? Wait until AFTER Christmas to stock up for the next year! Need Halloween Costumes? Wait until November 1st and find some of your kiddos favorites! They could also be great dress up clothes – double whammy!

I’ve found myself putting my Christmas decorations away each year and making a list of what we need for next year to avoid over spending! This may take some planning and also extra storage space at home. BUT could lead to de-cluttering and simplifying in your home (and if you’re like me, your mind!) Winning – Self high-five!

Start by shopping LOCAL and help your neighbors clean up inventory to make way for new items.

3) Gift Closet Goodies!

I always remember ‘going shopping’ in Mom’s Gift Closet before a birthday party! It was the joys of shopping for something new without having to drive 2-hours and avoids anxiety overload if a special date sneaks up on you!

This one takes some thinking ahead as well. But much like the Post Season Snags, it’s a Golden Ticket for saving money!

Location also factors into this one. Living in the middle of nowhere your options are limited for last minute gifts. Yes, you can always resort to the glorious rescue of FREE 2-Day shipping from Amazon Prime, but try to keep it LOCAL! Support your local business owners!

Extra storage space is needed too, BUT again, worth it especially if you have kids with many activities/parties to attend. And if you live in the middle of no where! Trust me this will save you more than just money!

*CHALLENGE: Get thrifty today! So choose ONE way you can minimize spending. Maybe that is cutting out small spending you don’t realize adds up. Or maybe it’s implementing one of the tips shared today! It could be a fun-money saving adventure! You won’t know until you try!

“Being frugal allows you to appreciate the simple things in life.”

– John Sachem

Lord, whatever journey you take us on, I pray and ask for guidance and wisdom when it comes to spending money. Everything we have is ours on borrowed time and all comes from you! Please give us discernment when we spend on little or big expenses! May we be honoring to you through it all! In Your Name, Amen.