Easy ways for moms to save time and money
A mom is always walking a fine line between trying to provide her family with everything they need, while at the same time balancing a budget and saving money for the unexpected surprises life can throw at her.
Yes, life can get busy with running errands, shuttling children and taking care of the household chores. Here are some tips that you can use as a smart mom to save time and money.
1. Go on a treasure hunt at garage sales and estate auctions with your children. This is a great opportunity if you are redecorating a room, or looking to replace household items. Create a "scavenger hunt" list of what you wish for, and scour the sales, looking for the best deals. If you save money on curtains, home accessories, furniture or toys, everyone wins.
2. As a busy mom with three girls, Anna Teoli found shopping online was the easiest way for her to save time.
"I always looked for the best deals, and for some reason, I always felt that if I searched more, I would find an even better deal," Teoli says. "One day it just hit me, why not gather all that information myself and let everyone know - all the best bargains and deals, online coupon codes, in-store coupons and all the ways to save more money."
Teoli started the MommySavesBig blog in 2007 and now MommySavesBig.com has all the coupon codes, deals and in-store coupons for popular stores a mom needs to keep her budget and family happy at the same time.
3. Before shopping at a favorite store online, join the company's newsletter. Not only will the company give you the latest product and services information, but within 48 hours they usually will e-mail you a coupon.
4. Compare prices with a little research. This is very important when you are shopping for more expensive items. Use the Internet to research the products available, compare prices for the product you want at different stores, and also search for available discounts or coupons. Don't be in a hurry to buy, because you will always save more money by doing your homework.
5. Ask for discounts. Some stores accept printable coupons. Other stores accept expired coupons or competitor coupons. It doesn't hurt to ask if you can get a discount, and there is nothing wrong with trying to save money, especially in these hard times.
Moms work long hours and are always trying to make ends meet, says Teoli.
"In today's world, having everything is not enough, we always want more," she says. "Therefore, shopping and spending my money wisely simply makes me feel better and MommySavesBig helps me achieve that goal."
Courtesy of ARAcontent
