DIY Series: Save Money on Invitations

There comes a time when a woman, regardless of age, is assigned to do the invitation.  No matter how simple and trivial it may seem, we all seemed to panic at the thought.  What do we do?  Who do we ask?  Where should we print?  What paper to use?  What are we going to write?

As much as there are templates of several invitation samples out there, not all were appropriate.  Not all were what you would like it to look.

 

If you are like me, kind of OCD, nothing is ever good enough for me.  And sadly, the more revision I make, the more expensive it becomes.  So unless you are good in graphics designing, there's really not much you can do but go for the cheapest and simplest design.

You can however, look for something alternative.  You can still put your input on it, but still make it look professional... and most of it are free.

Save more by doing it yourself - Pencil Case / Make up Kit

Isn't it amazing when you have accomplished something?  What more when you finished a DIY project?

I have always been fond of DIYs.  I may not be able to make all of them, but there are advantages in knowing a bit of everything.

I have been very open about my love for pretty things and all things girly.  (I am a girl).  It isn't a surprise when I say I love pouches.  I don't need to buy them - although, there are low cost - but I would treasure it more, if I make them myself.

As a DIY series, I am going to look for ways and guides on how to make stuff... from the planter, to balloons, to cakes, to etc.  I prefer to use stuff that readily available to us.  It can be a video or a step-by-step guide.

I found a really cool, easy-to-do pencil case.  Perfect for Back-to-School.  So without further ado, I would like to share how to make (DIY) pencil cases and make up kits -  sewing optional.

Hope you enjoy it as much as I do.  It will be perfect gift and personal use, especially for students.

Saving Tip#2: Set Goals

Before you save, figure out what you are saving it for.  When you save just for the sake of saving, you get easily disheartened and bored, and eventually stop altogether because you’re not motivated anymore.  No matter how trivial, small, or probably insignificant your goal is, write it down.  Put the amount, much better.  Itemize it or label the jars or envelopes, even accounts, you are saving it for.  It can be as big as retirement fund, college fund, home downpayments, or as small as ice cream for the weekend.  Do it until a habit forms.  Your goal is what will keep motivated.  So if you feel like spending over your budget, think about your goals first.

Saving Tip #1: Don't Ignore the coins

Don't ignore the coins.

Keep them in jars, empty coin purses, or pretty much any container.  Before you know it (or at least within a month), you have few hundreds of pesos which you can use to pay your water bill, gasoline for your motorcycle, even to minimize your electric bills.  It also helps when you have unexpected expenses, like buying LPG, unexpected guest food.  You can also use it for jeepney fare especially in the morning to avoid the rants, as MRT / LRT fare payment – in the exact fare booth or stored value ticket (am I correct? You know what I mean.)

Budgeting: Why is it so hard?

I can definitely understand everyone's dilemma when it comes to budgeting.  I struggle with it too.  And until now, I still overspend, considering I've written down my anticipated expenses every month.  What is it about budgeting that makes it so difficult?

Whether you are financially-literate or financially-challenged, everyone struggles with budgeting.  No matter how much you're earning, it still feels insufficient.  Because the truth is, you're expenses always follow your earnings.  There's always something to spend on.

Ways to Save Money NOW

I know that most of you have already heard this and I don't think there's much to add.  Although, should a financial need arise, wouldn't it be enjoyable not to have any worries?

Unfortunately, not everyone is prepared nor have a 6-month salary equivalent saved up as an emergency fund.  We should all be prepared.  Expenditures come when you least expect it.

Here are some of what I have compiled as ways to save money NOW: