Fab & Frugal Meal Planning Tips

With the economy in dire straits even the most fabulous Get ‘Em Girls are holding their purse strings just a little tighter. We are all reevaluating our lifestyles, cutting back where we need to, entertaining at home, and eating out less and less. With a little planning and some good tips on keeping your food costs to a minimum, your budget will be in top shape for the sample sales that you keep sending to your junk mailbox.

Plan Your Meals for the Week
Planning your meals ahead of time will not only help you make better food decisions during the week, but will also keep you from purchase unnecessary foods when you go grocery shopping.

Write Out Your Shopping List!
I’m sure you have the memory of an elephant, but write down what you need anyway. It will help you when you pass the aisle with those cookies you’ve been trying to avoid.

Tuck Your Tail Between Your Legs–and Get to Clipping!
I know, you look like your mother sitting at the table cutting coupons out of the Sunday paper, but I promise you, it’ll be worth the savings; especially on items that you absolutely needed to purchase anyway. Remember, every little bit helps.

Check the Neighborhood Sale Circulars!
If you’re anything like me, I rarely shop in my immediate area for produce, however I find that it’s much cheaper to purchase my staples from in my area as they are ALWAYS on sale!

Shop Once a Week
Going grocery shopping once during the week will prevent you from spending extra money on unnecessary groceries. If you find that you’re out of something, try substituting for another item. If all else fails and you absolutely must make a store run, take just enough money for that item.

Make Extra for the Next Day’s Lunch
Making big dishes can come in handy for impromptu visits from friends and family, you’ll be surprised how many “just in the area” moments you’ll have once you begin cooking, and you can take some for lunch the next day or eat another helping for dinner. Try our delicious Chicken and Shrimp Jambalaya recipe for an easy and quick dish that will carry you over throughout the week.