How to Have a Frugalicious Holiday

Like everyone, I'm trying to cut back because of the economy. It's also been a tough transition going from 2 incomes to relying solely on hubby to support us all. It seems like every month we go over our budget because of all the emergency room visits! (I just don't know why they can't get deathly ill during the doctor's office hours--why is it always midnight or the weekend?) Anyway, when I heard that RedPlum was going to have an event in LA entitled My Frugalicious Holiday to show moms how to cut back on spending and still have a fabulous holiday season, I knew I had to go.

I recognized RedPlum because I've been a proud coupon clipper since I was a tween and I've seen it on the cover of some of the coupon inserts in the Sunday paper and the mail. I didn't know they had a comprehensive website where you can also get money-saving tips as well as coupons and restaurant deals. It even has all the recent coupon codes for online retailers. At the event all of the RedPlum best holiday gifts under $30 were on display. I even met the RedPlum editor who had picked them! I think my favorite was the Brugo coffee mug where you can put the hot coffee and immediately take a sip because the technology cools it so it won't scald your mouth. If I were working in an office I would definitely get this for the commute, which kind of defeats the purpose of the event which was to find gift ideas for other people. And my other favorite item was the myperennial interchangeable headband that has a snap so you can change the headband just by switching the cute attachment. But I don't have a girl!

Ikea was also there with two table arrangements, one grown up and a kiddie table. The grown up table was done half in beige and half in black and white. The entire table was done for less than $150! I wish I could have a grown up party where I could set up a table like this without my kids destroying it. Even the kiddie table would be destroyed in 2 seconds. Just a few more years, right? The stager had sewn the tablecloths from everyday Ikea fabric. I never thought to do that, but I bet that is much more cost effective than going out and buying a tablecloth.

A couple ideas from the event that I think would be helpful at parties:
1) Have a signature cocktail prepared in advance so no one has to be stuck making drinks.
2) Have a tapas party so everything is hors d'oeuvres and you don't have to worry about keeping a main course warm. I think this is awesome because the appetizers are the best part of every party.

If you have tips on how to save money this holiday season, please share!