Seems to be NO way around it BUT i am very determined to find a way. There is always someone with the authority/power to make decisions that override current policies. I have many others but to me this would be one of the best if not best for active duty.
I make the main dish and the guests bring the sides. Usually we have something to grill or a big pot of soup. Saves time and money and clean up is easy.
I try not to have my get-togethers be a burden for guests, so I take on the majority of provisions though guests are welcome to bring what they like. I make most of the food and use my own plates and utensils rather than disposable. I'll buy some booze and let guests bring some if they have special tastes.
That is nowhere near enough rules. Some of these are better than others, but every time you save a penny it's money in the bank.
Take advantage of coupons, but only for things you were going to buy anyway.
Ask for discounts, particularly on large ticket items; if they say yes you are ahead of the game. If purchasing something for more than about $500 offer cash in exchange for a discount. If they refuse, use a credit card that gives cash back and pay it off at the end of the month.
Buy a good used car rather than a brand new one, which loses typically 15% of its value the moment you drive it off the lot.
Shop for interest rates on savings; banks have no loyalty to customers so why should you have loyalty to a particular bank?
Do everything you can to maximize your savings in IRAs and other tax-deferred savings plans. If your employer offers matching funds for 401K or anything else take advantage of it; it's free money.
Always pay your property taxes early if doing so earns you a discount. You aren't making enough on your savings account interest to justify waiting.
When I host a party I usually make as much of the food as possible. I keep the menu simple: pasta salads, sandwiches, veggie tray, a dessert, lemonade and sun tea. Sometimes I buy the ingredients for s'mores. Most parties are done in the summer around the pool and patio. I shop the house for decor. I use cloth napkins and real tableware, plus I have a stash of vintage tablecloths that I use. My husband likes to buy a small amount of new pool items every year, such a floodles and inflatables. Contributions from guests are always welcome! :)
If you are not a business-minded person and you decide to become a mystery shopper, this will not be an appealing job due to the fact that you are not an employee but an independent contractor. An independent contractor in the eyes of the IRS implies that you are operating as a company and therefore that classification alone is a whole different ball-game than being an employee. As an independent contractor, you are not subjected to work for one company because you have to have more means of making money for your business. As an independent contractor you are allowed to hire help to make the work easier for you like any business entity would. So, if you are interested in starting a business with little overhead, mystery shopping is the way to go. Also, as an independent contractor, your mind-set has to be changed from working as an employee to being your own boss. These jobs are basically piece-work jobs and you as an independent contractor have the power to negotiate your pay and have the option of saying, "No." Yes, as any business entity (independent contractor) you are responsible for all of your fees, quarterly taxes, gas, ink, paper, camera, printer, labor, everything. Try attending business seminars which are free at most community colleges and become knowledgeable about being classified as an independent contractor and that way your decisions about mystery shopping will be more clearer.
I have a lot of boardgames and card games. I buy games with a lot of replay value so we can play a lot without having to buy anything else. My friends usually end up bringing snacks and we batch drinks. It's a lot of fun and a great way to bond.
Please don't forget the commonly used apps such as Whatsapp, even Skype (ideal for making that video call home if you're using free wifi).
Also consider something like FON, who have partnerships worldwide with various Telecoms companies, which allows you to use free wifi (dumbed down, if your home ISP/phone company has an arrangement you can use their hotspots freely eg BT in the UK)
Seems to be NO way around it BUT i am very determined to find a way. There is always someone with the authority/power to make decisions that override current policies. I have many others but to me this would be one of the best if not best for active duty.
I make the main dish and the guests bring the sides. Usually we have something to grill or a big pot of soup. Saves time and money and clean up is easy.
I try not to have my get-togethers be a burden for guests, so I take on the majority of provisions though guests are welcome to bring what they like. I make most of the food and use my own plates and utensils rather than disposable. I'll buy some booze and let guests bring some if they have special tastes.
I am amazed someone would want junk mail. But if it helps, I would like to have the money.
When guests if they can bring something, say yes please! Then include their offerings in your meal/beverage planning.
Pot-luck and/or BYOB usually works well.
we live with the in-law's so we're actually not allowed to host any parties - cost $0!
I have guests bring an appetizer
That is nowhere near enough rules. Some of these are better than others, but every time you save a penny it's money in the bank.
Take advantage of coupons, but only for things you were going to buy anyway.
Ask for discounts, particularly on large ticket items; if they say yes you are ahead of the game. If purchasing something for more than about $500 offer cash in exchange for a discount. If they refuse, use a credit card that gives cash back and pay it off at the end of the month.
Buy a good used car rather than a brand new one, which loses typically 15% of its value the moment you drive it off the lot.
Shop for interest rates on savings; banks have no loyalty to customers so why should you have loyalty to a particular bank?
Do everything you can to maximize your savings in IRAs and other tax-deferred savings plans. If your employer offers matching funds for 401K or anything else take advantage of it; it's free money.
Always pay your property taxes early if doing so earns you a discount. You aren't making enough on your savings account interest to justify waiting.
I always make a dish to feed the masses, Chili, jambalaya, or lasagna ect.. If I am the host I feel like I should supply the meal.
When I host a party I usually make as much of the food as possible. I keep the menu simple: pasta salads, sandwiches, veggie tray, a dessert, lemonade and sun tea. Sometimes I buy the ingredients for s'mores. Most parties are done in the summer around the pool and patio. I shop the house for decor. I use cloth napkins and real tableware, plus I have a stash of vintage tablecloths that I use. My husband likes to buy a small amount of new pool items every year, such a floodles and inflatables. Contributions from guests are always welcome! :)
I don't usually end up hosting parties. When I go as a guest I always offer to bring something to help the host(ess) save on costs.
If you are not a business-minded person and you decide to become a mystery shopper, this will not be an appealing job due to the fact that you are not an employee but an independent contractor. An independent contractor in the eyes of the IRS implies that you are operating as a company and therefore that classification alone is a whole different ball-game than being an employee. As an independent contractor, you are not subjected to work for one company because you have to have more means of making money for your business. As an independent contractor you are allowed to hire help to make the work easier for you like any business entity would. So, if you are interested in starting a business with little overhead, mystery shopping is the way to go. Also, as an independent contractor, your mind-set has to be changed from working as an employee to being your own boss. These jobs are basically piece-work jobs and you as an independent contractor have the power to negotiate your pay and have the option of saying, "No." Yes, as any business entity (independent contractor) you are responsible for all of your fees, quarterly taxes, gas, ink, paper, camera, printer, labor, everything. Try attending business seminars which are free at most community colleges and become knowledgeable about being classified as an independent contractor and that way your decisions about mystery shopping will be more clearer.
Have the guests bring dishes/desserts with them so everyone contributes to the party and is budget friendly for the host.
I have a lot of boardgames and card games. I buy games with a lot of replay value so we can play a lot without having to buy anything else. My friends usually end up bringing snacks and we batch drinks. It's a lot of fun and a great way to bond.
I host budget parties by serving simple affordable foods
Host pot luck dinners or ask people to pitch in!
Make big batch cocktails! Sangria is always a favorite since you can purchase cheap wine and make it look beautiful with fresh fruit!
Please don't forget the commonly used apps such as Whatsapp, even Skype (ideal for making that video call home if you're using free wifi).
Also consider something like FON, who have partnerships worldwide with various Telecoms companies, which allows you to use free wifi (dumbed down, if your home ISP/phone company has an arrangement you can use their hotspots freely eg BT in the UK)
I skip decorations. I cook lots of food and have guests bring drinks.
Philadelphia should have been on the list. It is very affordable too!
Have your Guests to Bring a Favorite Dish or Drink to help save with the cost of hosting a party on your own. Saves a lot of money for the host.
this food is all awesome!
Pot luck parties, where you ask guests to bring a dish, are budget-friendly.
My friends and I do a shared party, so everyone brings something, so that it isn't a cost burden on any one particular person.