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Less Stress, More Gratitude


Because Thanksgiving is coming up, we’re going to pause the insurance discussion to share some ideas of saving money for this holiday of appreciation.

While Thanksgiving is not the budget-buster that Christmas can be, it can still get expensive. Here are some ways to save money on Thanksgiving dinner, especially if you are hosting.
  • Get RSVPs so you don’t make too much. Why make a meal for 30 when you’ll only have 10? We like leftovers, too, but there is a limit.
  • See what you already have on hand. You might have a bunch of canned green beans and French-fried onion that go in that recipe from grandma and don’t need to buy any more.
  • Know what you’re going to do with leftovers. My daughter likes to make turkey soup. And leftover mashed potatoes are great for Sheppard’s pie.
  • Get your groceries early from multiple stores. You may find Thanksgiving-related items on sale at competitive prices earlier in November, plus you won’t run the risk of not getting what you need. Have YOU ever had to buy whipped cream from the convenience store on Thanksgiving morning? The markup is crazy. And, if you buy your turkey frozen and make time to let it thaw out, you’ll save quite a bit per pound.
  • Make things from scratch. Homemade pie crusts, rolls, and mashed potatoes are so much better than the premade stuff, anyway.
  •  Buy generic vegetables or recipe ingredients. When it comes to making my family’s favorite frozen side dish that requires cream cheese, non-name brands are the same as Philadelphia.
  • Use last year’s table decorations, or find something fun in nature.
  • Assign different dishes to guests who will be attending.
  •  Borrow cookware or dinnerware from friends and family who are not playing host this year. If your neighbor doesn’t need their large roaster, call in a favor.
  • To save on utility bills, coordinate cooking items, don’t hand-wash dishes, and turn down the thermostat. Chances are all the cooking and extra bodies in your home will warm it up.

Don’t let the financial burden of the holidays be your main focus. Plan well by incorporating some of these ideas early and then enjoy the time with family and friends.

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