Couponing For The Holidays!

It seems as though the one time of year it is vital to save money...we spend the most!  I love cooking for groups of people, so it's no surprise that I love Thanksgiving!  This year, my husband has to work, and my side of the family is going out of state.  So I have left an open invitation for family to come to my house for dinner!  Problem....we are living on a very strict budget!  One income is no joke!  My goal this year is to do "Thanksgiving with Coupons"!  Let's see if I can make a traditional dinner, with all the fixings, and spend as little as possible!  Now...what should be my target budget?

The Art of Couponing

I have used coupons in the past.  For me, nothing special.  The savings weren't big enough to keep me interested.  Last week however, I watched TLC's Extreme Couponing for the first time!  Seeing the savings they had inspired me!  So last week I started clipping coupons.  I learned that in order for me to get the biggest savings, I have to match my coupon with sales as well as any store coupons.  I went through and printed up the coupon policy for all of my local stores.  That way I know what I can and can't do!  Week one proved to be a big week for me!  I got free product already and stocked up on bathroom cleaner for at least two years!  People are gonna start looking at me like I'm crazy.  But it's ok, cause I'm spending less and getting more!

My first time out and I think I did very well!  I left home with a $10 bill and some change in my pocket, and this is what I got:

ALL Detergent: Was $5, I got it for $3

Cover Girl Blush: Was $3.74 each, I got all 4 for FREE!

Fatastick Cleanser: Was $1.50 each, I got them for $.50 each

Ajax: Was $2, I got it for $1

Nivea Lip Treatment: Was $2.99 each, I got them for $.25 each

Suave Professionals Hair Care: Was $2 each, I got them for $.87 each

Playtex Sport: Was $3.97, I got it for $2.13

Old Spice Deodorant: Was $3, I got it for $1

Total before coupons: $41.41

Total after in store savings and coupons: $10.87

I saved $30.54 my first time!

Here is a site that I have found most helpful: http://www.hip2save.com/