Budget What?

Budgeting: 

I know some of you are thinking, budgeting? I thought this was a eyeliner inblog. You are correct, however this is also a blog for frugal ladies, and budgeting is part of being frugal! Plus, if you budget right, you can shop more!

Now for some tips...

The first category for budgeting tips and tricks is...drumroll, shopping (of course).

Shopping:

My first tip is to shop at Kohl's and use Kohl's cash (expired usually accepted) and other stores that have useful promotions, such as:

Macy's is known for the one day only sale, which is actually a 2 day sale, including Friday. You can actually score some amazing deals during one of these sales. Be sure to check out preview day on Friday because the early bird catches the worm, right?

Victoria's Secret 6/$26.50 sale and Semi-Annual Sale- You can always count on Victoria's Secret for killer deals during the semi-annual sale, and who doesn't want 6 pair of panties for $26.50? No one.

Tip: Purchase a $1 pocket calendar from Dollar Tree and make note of sales when you see them advertised.

Check out Belk and JC Penney for frequent sales on various designers.

This is a don't in some people's book but DO shop end of season sales. You will be shocked as to how cheap items can be at the end of a season. I have scored some of my favorite pieces at the end of winter and summer.

Realize stores like H&m, Forever 21, Body Central and Nordstrom Rack are your friend, but can become an enemy with overindulgence. 

More tips: 

Buy school supplies in bulk

Utilize thrift stores

Sale unloved items

Coupons

Include those annoying and expensive yet necessary items such as tampons and eyeliner in your budget. Opt for the cheaper or generic brand when possible. 

Believe me, I believe in high end cosmetics (in moderation), but I always check out drugstores, such as CVS and Walgreen's cosmetic section. You can sometimes find an amazing dupe for your favorite high-end product. Coupons are essential for these stores. 

Grocery:

#1 Tip: Make a budget book to track items that you often purchase and include an estimated price. We all know prices fluctuate so just jot down the price range. 

Example: Bread-$2-3, Ranch Dressing-$2, Cheese- Under $5, Tampons-$6-8

Buy produce during the "in season".

Generic, generic, generic- 

Ranch(WM), Publix Sweet Tea & lemonade, WM Dryer sheets, Noodles, etc.

Coupons

Avoid 10/10 promo and promos in general *shop smarter, not harder*

Don't grocery shop hungry-I cannot tell you how many times I have grocery shopped hungry and ended up with everything, but the kitchen sink (not literally but you know the saying).

Include those annoying and expensive yet necessary items such as tampons and eyeliner. Opt for the cheaper brand when possible, and set aside splurge money for when you absolutely NEED the better brand.

I feel like this is a given, but aim to eat cheap meals.

Stock up when you see your favorites on sale For instance, I like a certain BBQ sauce so if I happen to go grocery shopping and notice it on sale, I pick up two or three for when I need them. BEWARE of expiration dates; there is nothing like stocking up on an item to use in three months, and having it expire before you get the chance to use it. *Trust me, I know*

Home:

#1 Tip: Shop at TJ-Maxx, Marshalls and Home Goods- These places will save you money, undoubtedly. 

Stock up on seasonal items for next year just after the holiday passes

Check out Hobby Lobby and Michael's for creative DIY projects. Also, the home and floral sections are equally as impressive as the crafts. HL even puts certain items 50% off 

(Example: Lamps, Iron Goods, Florals, etc.)

#1tip: shop around before you buy. Today we have the privilege of the internet which allows us to compare prices like never before. Get the most out of your internet and research things and reviews before you commit to purchasing. 

Do you like posts about budgeting and money? 

Please express yourself honestly in the comments.

Thanks!