I have always enjoyed looking at my savings on any given trip, and always vow that some year I’m going to keep track of my total savings, because it has to be thousands of dollars.  However, this kind of record-keeping requires A LOT of dedication.

Still, whether it has been shopping for clothing, planning my wedding, or looking to redecorate my home, I have always been dedicated to being thrifty and frugal…..(even if it takes me a little bit of extra time). I will never be the girl to just drop $50 on a shirt, nor will I ever be the one to pay regular price on anything when it isn’t necessary.  If it’s already only $7.99 at Ross or $8.99 at Marshall’s, I can certainly pay regular price then.  In that case, I’m at a discount store to begin with.  I just cannot justify paying for one shirt what I very well know I can get four shirts for. Catch my drift?

I often get asked about my savings: What I do, and how I do it?

Whether or not I’m asked, I always enjoy sharing my tips with anyone and everyone.  My endless tips and tricks would be best spread out over a series of posts.  However, today, I am just going to educate my frugal friends on the savings apps I’ve been using.  Have a smart phone?  GREAT!  Do you save receipts?  PERFECT!  Put them to great use!  Even if it’s a gas station receipt for a pack of gum, tell the cashier you want your receipt when he/she asks.

Now……download the following FREE apps for opportunities to earn cash back, e-gift cards and free items.

1.  Ibotta:  This is probably among the most popular of savings apps, so I’m going to go ahead and assume that many of my readers probably already know about this one.  However, I meet people all the time who haven’t yet discovered it.  In fact, I didn’t sign up with Ibotta until 2 years ago, though I’m pretty sure I had heard about it prior to then.  I don’t think I realized how easy or beneficial it was until I really gave it a chance.  (To date, I have earned $482.48 in cash back in 2 short years on this app alone).

How to use:  Basically, on this app, you search for offers that are available at different stores you shop at or plan to shop at.  Some of my main stores would be Kroger, Wal-Mart, Publix, Walgreens, Target and Amazon, for example.  They also feature other random stops like certain gas stations and even the Dollar Tree.  You simply click on the + signs of the items you may be interested in purchasing at each store.

Then, you go shopping and actually buy the participating items.  (REMEMBER to get your receipt….and do not lose it!  This will not work without your receipt).

Next, you will want to redeem your offers once you get home.  Now, let me first say:  If you used Ibotta for Wal-Mart, this next step is going to be extra easy, as long as you have hit the + symbol on all your items.  With Wal-Mart, all you have to do is generally scan the little square box at the bottom of your receipt, and it will almost ALWAYS automatically detect all participating items you added to your list.

Kroger and most other stores though?  You will likely have to scan the UPC on each product.  I tried linking my Kroger card to the app, but for whatever reason had issues.  Maybe you will have more luck than I did.

There are many opportunities items in which you can purchase the same item multiple times and get cash back for each one – you simply put in the quantity (but Wal-Mart even detects your quantity).  Some items, they will require you buy 2 or more to get cash back, so make sure you look closely.

I have come to find that Wal-Mart is the most user-friendly with Ibotta and offers the most, though I’m not a big Wal-Mart shopper. I use it at multiple retailers, though I am a pretty devoted Kroger shopper.

What’s more?  You can also get this cash back in addition to the sales and your usual coupons.

For example, let’s just say I purchased the limit of 5 Fage yogurts for .50 cents back on each.  I will scan my receipt, scan each label and put the quantity (if I’m at Kroger).  I will earn a total of $2.50 back in cash for this purchase alone.  Let’s just say the Fage yogurt was also on sale, and I had a coupon for a free one.  Well, I am barely going to have paid anything for the yogurt when it’s said and done.  I have even had situations where I was nearly PAID to buy an item, thanks to Ibotta, my other apps and coupons.

There is also a “pay with Ibotta” option on this app that you may want to take advantage of as well.

Redeeming your earnings:  Ibotta is a cash back app, in which you can transfer your funds to Paypal when you have earned $20 back, and then directly into your account.  Yes, you will need a Paypal account for cash back if you don’t already have one.  Ibotta also now offers a broad array of digital gift cards if you would rather earn back in that way instead.  Everything from restaurants to retail stores to airlines gift cards are an option:  Whatever your heart desires!

Tips: I always tell new Ibotta users to never buy things they wouldn’t normally buy unless it’s something they really want to try.  Also, keep brand names in mind.  Maybe you can save $0.35 back on Ibotta, but maybe the generic item is still cheaper.  Just stick with the generic then, unless of course you much prefer the brand of that particular item.  Make sense?  Another tip?  Always check the “any” section even if you’re just going into the store to buy one generic brand.  Sometimes they will offer $0.10 back on any brand of bread, any brand of chicken breast, etc.  Some grocery trips you may only earn back $0.10 cents or nothing at all, but it’s all about shopping smart (and not buying things just because they are on there).  If you start buying items just because they are on Ibotta, your intention to save might end up turning into increased spending.  If you don’t much time to browse Ibotta, always check the “any,” “new offers,” and the “what’s hot” categories at the least.

Some months will be better than others on Ibotta.  I have those months I earn $40 back, while other months it may look more like $4.  It all depends on if they are featuring the items I tend to buy or not. Their cash back opportunities change constantly, so check often.

Other ways to earn cash on Ibotta: Ibotta also has a great referral program, which also gets your cash back stacking up even quicker.  The referral incentives change all the time, but there are always opportunities to earn cash if your friends use your code to sign up for their account.  It may be $5, or it may be more.  If you feel inclined to help my earnings AND yours, here is my referral code you will want to enter:  udlflrln

Ibotta also features a ton of bonuses:  (IE – redeem 12 offers before such and such date and receive an extra $3 back in cash).  They tend to run a lot of extra cash opportunities around holidays and special occasions.  Another example of a bonus could be, “Buy 2 Cottonelle products to earn an extra $1 back.”  As long as you appropriately scanned the item, Ibotta will detect and credit you with your bonuses automatically.

Again, to begin earning your cash back, sign up under my code of udlflrln.

2.  Shopkicks:  While Ibotta has resulted in the most cash back for me, Shopkicks is a not too far distant second.  I would also consider Shopkicks to be an enjoyable app. (though you somewhat have to work for it).

Description:  On Shopkicks, you earn points towards various gift cards for a variety of reasons – from Outback Steakhouse to Sephora, you can enjoy gift cards all thanks to this app.

How to earn points?  1.  You can earn points towards a gift card simply for walking into a store.  (IE – if I am going to walk into Kroger, I turn on the app. click on the icon of the person “walking” and my phone will recognize I am in Kroger.  Boom, there is 10 points.  On certain days, some stores offer 100 or even 250 kicks for simply walking into a store).

You can also earn points for simply scanning items that are on each store’s featured list.  My sister and I enjoy walking around stores and scanning items (especially if they’re on the way) during big grocery shopping trips.  We think of it as another fun way to get exercise.  For instance, after you’ve earned 10 points for simply walking into Kroger, your scans section might also show that you can earn 40 points for simply scanning a bag of Seattle’s Best Coffee or 75 points for scanning a pack of Quilted Northern toilet paper.

3.  Another huge way to earn points on shopkick is to actually buy some of their featured items.  Any item you scan probably also offers points back if you purchase that item.  For instance, I might scan the Quilted Northern toilet paper that is already featured in their sale that week, use a coupon for it, scan it for points on Shopkicks….AND then be able to take a picture of my receipt for an additional 250 points simply because I purchased the item.  I may even find that Ibotta offers cash back on the same item!  Another way to earn points is by linking your card to certain stores and earning points for each dollar spent (I don’t really do this one).  Lastly, you can even earn points simply by going to their “discover” section and watching little random advertising videos…..because, why not?

Redeeming your points:  On Shopkicks, you choose the gift card you want to work towards (and you can change it at any time):  1,250 kicks = $5 gift card, 2,500 kicks = $10, 6,250 kicks = $25 and 12,500 kicks = $50.  You can set your goal as low or as high as you like for whatever you are wanting.  If you just want $5 to Starbucks, great – it won’t take you long at all.  If you want $50 to Lowe’s, great again!  Just be willing to work for it a little bit (but it’s fun work).

On Shopkicks in just 2 years, I have earned a total of 11 gift cards (technically 12, if I’d like to to cash in my current points for $5).  I particularly enjoy redeeming their Sephora gift cards, because it’s a way to get cool makeup I am normally too cheap to buy.  When I come home with Sephora bags, I can brag to my husband that Shopkicks funded my trip.  All gift cards are received electronically.  (Be prepared to manually punch in the gift card numbers at the store).

Tips:  Again, do not trick yourself into buying items you wouldn’t normally buy just to earn points.  The key is to save money – not to spend more or to do anything counterproductive.  Sometimes your app. will even recognize you are in a parking lot and award you points without ever even walking into the store.  However, this is usually only true of 10 pointers.  If Marshall’s is offering you 250 points to walk inside, you probably need to walk inside.  Unfortunately, sometimes this app. can be a bit glitchy for walk-ins.  They give you an opportunity to report the error, but I’m not convinced it always works.

With all of that said, Shopkicks also has a super cool referral program.  If you sign up under me and simply walk into a store, scan or buy something on the app within 7 days, we will both earn 250 kicks!  My code is MALL366184.

3.  Fetch Rewards:  I feel like this app is a bit underrated.  I have already earned 8 gift cards on this one in a little over a year, but this is one may take a little longer to stack up for you, depending on where you shop and how you shop.  I also have at times decided I wanted to redeem an Amazon gift card at just $3 of earnings.  This app particularly loves certain brand names, but if you buy all generics, this does not at all mean that you won’t be able to earn gift cards.  You just may average 25 points on a receipt vs. 1,000.

Description: The main thing you need to do on this app. is to scan your grocery and gas station receipts for a minimum of 25 points each.  Recently, Fetch has even started giving 5 points for restaurant receipts, along with other non-grocer stores.  If you buy any of their “featured items,” you will earn back more points than the standard 5 or 25.  For instance, if you follow the directions on these diapers pictured above, you can earn thousands of points from your receipt. Now, it’s important to note:  There ARE times you may have to hit “correct my receipt,” and give a little more information.  I have had those times that Fetch didn’t detect a featured item on my receipt.  However, when I notify them, they always take care of it.  It tends to pick up on my smaller earnings, but my bigger ones, I sometimes have to let them know their app. didn’t give me credit.  Can that be a pain?  Yes, but again, I’m working towards those gift cards.

What’s great about this app. is the double earnings you can get back from it. Let’s just say that you purchased the Dove body wash off of their special offers for a total of 1,000 points – it just may be that Kroger had it on sale for $4.99 that week, plus offered a $1 off digital coupon, PLUS Ibotta offered $0.75 back, PLUS shopkicks gave you 25 points for scanning and 250 for buying it.  Yes, sometimes you can really luck out just like that! 

I have really lucked out at times….and I LOVE it.  Similar to Shopkicks, yet of course different, points add up to gift card redemptions on this app (1,000 points = $1………3,000 points = $3…….$5 points = $5 all the way to 50,000 points = $50.00).  Again, you can cash in your points whenever you want for yet another electronic gift card.

Tips:  I prefer to use these electronic gift cards on online purchases, as this one can be a pain to use in a store.  While Sephora never seems confused by my Shopkick redemptions, I feel like this lesser known app can confuse some cashiers. Maybe it is just my luck, but I prefer to redeem on this app. for online purchases with Target, Amazon or something like that. I guess nowadays you can shop at any of these places online.  I don’t want to discourage you against using this at any restaurants or stores, as it may be just fine for you.  I just wanted to make you aware, not everyone will know about this app.

Again, this app. offers a super cool referral program.  If you use my code, we will both get 2,000 points when you scan your first receipt.  My code is T8BWA.

Cool side note:  This app. literally tracks your spending for the year at each store.  It compares month-to-month and year to year.  This COULD be a helpful budgeting/record-keeping tool if you’d like it to be.  Just click on “activity” to see all of the details.

4.  Receipt Hog:  So, I’m going to tell you from the get-go, this app is my slowest for earnings.  A lot of impatient people may not stick around on it long – yet I stay, because why not?  I do earn money back and it accepts nearly EVERY SINGLE receipt no matter where it is from.  On this app, you also earn “points” AKA “coins” for either a Visa or Amazon gift card, or you can earn money that can be sent to your Paypal account.

Description:  Basically you just simply scan your receipt.  It doesn’t matter if it’s a fast food restaurant, a clothing store or a gas station, receipt hog is happy to accept and happy to give you something……even if not very much.  The higher the grocery bill, the more coins you will get.  They accept more receipts than most apps. While this app is slow to stack, it is entertaining to me.  First of all, it features a cute little pig that appears in different costumes for different times of the year….AND a super fun slot machine where you do have a chance to strike it “big.”  That possibility of my receipt being drawn (it has happened before) always keeps me coming back and submitting receipts.

So let’s break this down:  If you shop at a pet store, you will get both “coins” and a sweepstake entry for simply scanning your receipt.  For instance, when I buy my dog’s food at PetSmart, and I will get awarded around 15 coins and a sweepstakes entry for doing so.  If you go to a clothing or electronic store, you get to play their slot machine!  This part is so fun, and makes this among the most entertaining of the savings apps (at least for me).  Though many times, your slot is unsuccessful or your awards are not much more than 2, 5 or 10 coins, it is still something and still fun.  It’s not like it’s some big time waster.  Big winners can earn a TON of coins, and even $100 (though I’ve never been that person just yet) – there are winners all the time.  In general, you will either get coins and/or a sweepstakes entry for almost anything.  The more entries you have, the bigger your chances of course.  Like I said, this isn’t a huge earnings app. most of the time, but fun, and super easy. It literally takes 2 seconds to scan your receipt.

Tips:  If you go to the rewards section, sometimes they will also feature surveys you can take for additional coins.  You can also get additional points for connecting your Amazon or e-mail to this account.

This app. does not offer a referral program, but again, too fun to pass up!

5.  Drop:  This app. is yet another fascination of mine, thanks to my little sister (my fellow saver).  We are carbon copies of one another when it comes to savings (and we are not making any apologies for it either).  Because I joined this app, we both received 5,000 points from the get-go, which is equivalent to $5 for both of us.

Description:  There really isn’t a ton to say about this one, because once you set up your account, you do little to NO work (unless of course you want to put in a little). This app. can be as little or as much as you’d like to make of it.  Now, things have changed with this app. since I first downloaded on it.  I don’t want to tell you wrong, but I cannot see everything without setting up a new account.  I also cannot find the specifics online.  However, I believe the new process goes like this:  You simply link your card to this app and choose 2 retailers or restaurants that you’d like to earn points at. (1,000 points = $1, just like on Fetch). As long as you use your card to make purchases at these businesses, it does the work for you.  If you don’t want to do much more than that, you are still on your way to earning some good points.

You will want to choose 2 of the places on their list that you are likely to spend the most money at.  You can browse their offers to start earning points as well, but at the very least, any time you buy something at one of those 2 places and use your card, you will automatically get points towards a gift card.  (IE – if you choose Starbucks as one of your choices and then go order a coffee, you will automatically be awarded points when you use your card there.  You don’t need to scan anything.  It may take a few days to see your points in your account, but rest assured, they should arrive).  You don’t have to do anything, except swipe the linked card.  Now, there are also a TON of offers (outside of the 2 businesses you choose) available, if you’d like to advantage of them.  If you shop through the app. at Wal-Mart for example, there just may be a current opportunity to earn 60 points back per $1 spent.  Click on the “Shop” tab to see what the current offers are.

Other ways to earn points:  They also feature a fun game called, “supercharge,” where you can earn additional points.  The icon is a snake, so you have to stay on the lookout for it.  It stays locked until you earn points shopping.  You also get to play “hoops,” among other little fun games.   As I’m writing this, I literally just stopped for a game of hoops.  You get one free play a day.  I earn around 50 points each time I play.  This app. kind of has a Receipt Hog vibe to it.  It can be entertaining for sure.  They also offer a ton of surveys for points if you feel comfortable answering the questions on there.

Though it has taken me a little while to stack up, it’s such a low-maintenance app.  As you can see, I have almost $32 stacked up from very minimal effort.

As mentioned, this also contains a great referral program.  If you use my code, we will both earn $5:  1fcto

Tips: While I will admit I haven’t had the energy to learn EVERYTHING on this app, I would encourage you to study it.  There is A LOT on there. While I am not the master of this app., I do want to encourage you to really think it through on which of the businesses choices you are likely to spend the most money at BEFORE you choose them.  Apparently, you cannot change them once you select them, so choose wisely.  Looking back, I wish I would’ve known this. Still, I cannot complain about this little gem of an app!

6.  Coinout:   This one is so very easy.

Description:  It is a concept that is pretty similar to Fetch, though it awards cents back to you rather than “points.” It may take a minute for your earnings to stack up, as you typically earn anywhere from $0.1 – $0.3 cents back on each receipt, but I’ve earned up to $0.13 back on some. I don’t think they’ve ever rejected a single receipt of mine.  All I’ve been doing is scanning receipts, so I cannot complain. However, there are A LOT of other opportunities on there which I’m not taking advantage of.  I will admit, I need to do some more exploring beyond scanning my receipts.  They feature a great deal of businesses who offer cash back.  They even offer cash back on certain groceries.  Whether you’re purchasing in store or online, you can earn cash back.  I encourage you to check deeper into this app.

Tips: As I said, study this app.  I think you will be impressed enough.  Also, take clear pictures.  Beware:  They inform you that if you send a duplicate receipt, you will lose your account – so be sure to never accidently scan a receipt twice (happens to the best of us). Lastly, realize your gift card or earnings do not happen automatically.  You will need to wait a few business days (up to 10) for them to approve it.

Note:  I recently earned a $10 Amazon gift card on there and am well on my way to receiving another gift card.  However, I am seeing now it takes a minimum of $20 to transfer your earnings to Paypal.

Again, they have a cool little referral program.  Their incentives change, so though I cannot tell you what you will earn, it will be something:   My link:  https://coinout.com/referrals/new?r=Z76F2ND

7.  SavingStar: Yet another way to earn cash by simply buying groceries you may normally buy.

Description:  I think of this one as a much smaller, slower stacking up Ibotta, minus the bonuses.  Yet, I still see them as worth it, as I did earn $20 on there in a fairly short time due to some bulk diaper buying.  One way they do differ from Ibotta is that they have a lot more offers that are a bulk requirement.  For example, at this moment, if you buy $25 worth of Kellogg’s cereal, you can earn $5 back.  You can buy this cereal in one trip or many.

Tips:  You will want to be aware that if you are working towards a bulk rebate that you must complete it before the expiration dates on there.  If not, you will lose what you worked toward, which has happened to me before.  This does make this app. a harder one in some ways.  However, earning the $15 back in diapers I did that one time really did make it stack up quickly.  Also, they do have here and there $1 – $3 back offers on single items.  All in all, I do not consider this a high maintenance app.  While it’s probably not going to become my biggest earner, I do check this one before I go to the store.  Though I haven’t explored it, they are now also partnered with coupons.com, which may interest some of you. So yeah, I see this app. as worth having.

Referral program?  Not that I know of, but maybe I’m missing something, or maybe that will change.

How to redeem:  Once you’ve earned a total of $20 back, you can redeem and send to Paypal.

Other apps worth mentioning:   I’m not as well-versed in this one, but I do think you should know about it:  Rakuten (formerly known as Ebates).  I have this one downloaded on my phone, and know it’s been around a long time.  I understand the concept of it, and know people earn back a lot on here.   The main reason I haven’t gotten too much into it is because I can do a lot of what I’d do on there on Ibotta or another app.  It just feels easiest to let my points build on another app. that I more frequently use.  Still, I do keep this one, and have heard others say many great things about it.  I’m definitely not counting it out, as it is certainly legitimate and credible.  Maybe I’m just already balancing too much?  (Imagine that).

I also should mention Checkout51 (which is basically the same concept as Ibotta).  However, Checkout51 doesn’t offer anything close to what Ibotta does in terms of variety, last time I looked.  They also tend to “run out” of offers.  I decided I didn’t really want to mess with this one any longer and deleted it.  However, you may want to check it out.  Maybe it has improved?  Maybe I should look again.  I also have Receipt Pal on my phone.  There are some ongoing issues going on with confirming my e-mail, but I do know you can scan receipts and earn points, which turn into cash.  I suggest looking into that one as well.

Now, with all of that said, I have earned back almost $800 between all of these apps. in 2 years.  Some of my earnings ended up being straight cash back that I transferred to Paypal, and then to my bank account.  Other times, I earned a gift card.

Either way, THIS money has helped in a variety of ways:  I’ve bought little things off Amazon I wanted.  My app earnings even once funded a nice anniversary dinner, among many other little luxuries.  Sometimes I just decide our bank account could use a little boost before pay day, so I’ll transfer $20-$40 over from Ibotta at that time.  For the longest time, I got pretty much ALL of my makeup from Sephora for free simply because of my Shopkick app.

Maybe you want these apps to be your excuse for purchasing Starbucks coffee.  After all, your husband cannot complain if it was free, right?  The possibilities are endless, and I suppose we can all be motivated by something different.

Now, Ibotta is my winner in terms of what I’ve earned back.  It has given me half of all of my earnings out of all of these apps.  So, if you can only choose ONE, I suggest Ibotta.  However, every single app I have given you is worth the time, in my opinion.  If it’s simply scanning a receipt, why not?  And on Drop, you don’t even have to do anything except link your card for at least TWO companies to earn some points over time.  Yes, apps like Receipt Hog take awhile to stack up, but oh well.  If you don’t put much work into it, what’s the harm?  Just a couple months ago, I got my first reward on Receipt Hog.  Yes, it took a long time to build that cash, so I decided to get something fun and meaningful with it:  I bought my mom, sister and self an essential oil/stress relief bracelet off of Amazon.  I also got Clara a personalized card book for her 1st birthday, as a special keepsake she can always have.  Every single one of us are enjoying our fun little Receipt Hog reward.

The bottom line:  For a majority of these apps, it only takes a second to scan the receipt.  I have a system.  I take each receipt and do what I can with it on each app…..and then I move on to the next receipt.

Whew okay…..I got descriptive on all of this, but I know how overwhelming all of this can feel at first.  It takes a minute to really learn all these apps, and I still cannot say I’m all of the way there.  Do not get overwhelmed by this blog post, simply because of all of the words.  Yes, I went into great detail, BUT none of these apps are overly complicated to get started on.  I just wanted to give you all the ins and outs, tips and my personal observations so that you can have the best experience possible on each of them.

So really….I just wanted to write the type of blog that I tend to find useful in my own life. There are also a lot of great YouTube videos out there that also explain these apps in great detail, if you are more of a video person.

Final Confession:  Yes.  Sometimes I feel like I’m juggling apps while walking into a store, yes.  Sometimes I’m looking at deals on Ibotta, while my sister is handing me an item to scan for Shopkicks….and sometimes I’m trying to remember if the item I’m hoping to get cash back for on Ibotta is also featured for points on Fetch.  Sometimes I forget to scan a receipt.  Sometimes I get a little frazzled. Sometimes I am also trying to look at my Kroger digital coupons and my paper ones at the same time, but guess what friends?  It is totally doable…..and super fun!  I will admit I have been slacking on Shopkicks during all of this COVID chaos, but I still love it!  I can still make it out of a huge grocery trip in about an hour.  I can do most of my app work in the comfort of my own home.

I also know that I didn’t even come close to listing all of the savings apps out there – these are just my go-to’s.  I know I’m late to the party with Ebates, among others….and would love to hear some of your favorites too!  (please share them in the comment section below).  I never get tired of learning about new ways to save!

If you enjoyed this post, please let me know that as well.  As I said, this is only scratching the surface on my savings.  I am totally open to doing more savings posts in the future!  This isn’t even counting my coupons and other savings avenues.  The future post possibilities are endless!

Sound off below if these savings posts are something you would like to see more of!

Until then…Happy Savings, friends!

The post Favorite Earning & Saving Apps for Frugal Folks appeared first on Homestead Holly.

So here’s the deal:  In 2020, everyone and their sister, is now a lifestyle blogger or YouTube star.  Sharing makeup, fashion advice and the latest Target finds are about as 2020 as COVID-19 and face masks.  I’m certainly not knocking this line of work, as obviously, *I* am one of them.  No, I’m not a YouTube star, with a big following (so don’t look me up).  However, I’m “somewhat” in the lifestyle blogging world on a minor level.  I’m a wife, mom, full-time legal assistant, and publicist.  After that?  I post on here if I’m able, though I’m dying to make it more of a priority.  But first, I don’t want to waste anyone’s time.

Please understand:  I didn’t create a blog to be trendy, or as an excuse to quit my day job.  I didn’t create a blog so we could just talk about outer appearance, though there is certainly nothing wrong with wanting to look your best.  My goal has been to focus more on character, legacy, faith and eternity, while still enjoying the here and now.  To enjoy the here and now, we need to love our homes, which means practical living tips are also of course a huge plus.

Writing is my passion – it isn’t some new thing for me.  Writing to me is like breathing.  I don’t do it in the hopes that I can be cool or popular.  I do it, because I don’t know how not to. Therefore, I am always seeking God’s help, and looking for the best outlets to not just hone my craft – but to most importantly, inspire others.  But tell me:  How can I do that?

I recently read a post on in a Facebook “girl’s group” I’m in.  It really, really, got me thinking.  Really.

Someone asked the group, if they subscribe to bloggers and/or what kind of blogs they enjoy.  A lot of the respondents had a similar response/view of bloggers.  The discussion left me feeling a weird combo of motivation and defeat (if that’s even possible):

This short little “survey” revealed that a lot of our non-blogging female peers consider most bloggers to be self-absorbed.  They aren’t interested in reading about “her life.”  Though this wasn’t their exact words, I picked up on what they were saying.  In a nutshell, they are basically interested in reading about “their life.”  They want to read blogs that benefit them, not just the blogger:  They want to hear about DIY home cleaning recipes, and how to make their Grandma’s easy homemade marinara sauce.  The majority isn’t really all that interested in seeing what is in Ellie’s makeup bag, or viewing an outfit that they cannot afford.  They don’t care about HER vacation or HER wedding, that they cannot afford. However, they may find her discount/money-saving tips valuable.  They may benefit from some of  her DIY tips in general, whether that be household cleaners, makeup, baking, wedding planning or vacationing.  They just want to know that it isn’t all about Ellie.  They want to know “what’s in it for them.” 

Basically, what readers want is authenticity and selflessness.  They want practical tips they can do on their own.  They want affordable, and they want fairly simple.  They don’t want to read 2,000 words, or read a huge backstory on a recipe.  They are mainly looking for the ingredients, what to set their oven at, and the baking time.

I grasped these truths a LONG time ago and vowed to be different, yet I still find myself wondering EXACTLY what my readers are most interested in.  I also find myself struggling to not be overly wordy while I’m at it.  Some of my blog posts have been well on their way to becoming a book, so I’m guilty.

Here’s a startling confession though:  I had zero problems getting millions of views on my pop culture column I used to run.  But when I make a blog about faith, character and legacy, with some practical living tips mixed in?  It’s much harder.  No, it’s not about views.  If it becomes about “views” then it becomes about the self-absorbed issue I’m talking about.  Still, how can I REALLY reach people with the kind of beneficial content that matters?  To me, pop culture isn’t the way to do that.

With that said, I want to do better going forward, and I need YOUR help.  YES you.

I don’t want this blog to just be about Holly.  Holly is just the messenger.  I want to KNOW WHAT IT IS THAT YOU WANT TO KNOW!  I want you to sound off in the comment section below.

LET ME KNOW:  Are you enjoying the Interior Design posts?  What practical tips would you like to know about Interior Design?  With most of us being home more often, I feel like now is the time for more “home” posts.  I don’t believe there has been any time more important than now to love the space we call “home.”  Tell me if I’m wrong.

Would you like to see more easy recipe posts?  Frugal living tips? More DIY organization posts?  DIY cleaners?  More faith and encouragement posts?  All of the above?  What else?  What benefits YOU?  What would make YOU want to subscribe to a blog?

And because I want to leave YOU with something beneficial today…………Here are 5 steps to being selfless in a self-absorbed world:

1.  Ask people how they are, and TRULY wait to hear the answer.  Don’t just ask, “how are you?,” and walk on.  Doing so, shows routine and obligation….not care and sincerity.  Wait until they actually tell you how they are and respond to them.  Go a step further, and listen to what’s going on in their life, without feeling the need to immediately interject what is going on in yours.
2. Be a person of your word:  If you say you’re going to do something….do it.  Man, oh man.  God has really convicted me about this one over the years. Admittedly, I’m a bit of a procrastinator.  I don’t “lie” to people, or break my word on purpose.  But if I tell someone we will get together soon, I want to mean it and follow through.  Even if my life gets busy, I want to keep my word.  If I tell someone I’m going to help them with something or make them a handmade gift….I don’t want the weeks to fly by.  I want to be an “over deliverer.”  When I look around, I think a lot of us get into a lazy mindset.  And dang it.  I’m one of them, sometimes!  My Pastor has taught me SO MUCH about this topic over the years….but he hasn’t just taught it.  He LIVES it, even though thousands of people attend our church.  He ALWAYS follows through.  He remembers what he tells people and does it.  If he can do it, so can we!  With that said, this tidbit, just reminded me I need to RSVP to a friend’s shower for an invite I received a couple weeks ago.  This is what I’m talking about, friends!  (Points at self).  Don’t be the person not to RSVP, because then, you just keep the host guessing on how much food and seating they need.  What’s even worse?  RSVP’ing with a “yes,” only to be a no-show.  What’s also bad?  To not RSVP, and then to show up when they weren’t expecting you.  What else?  Don’t be the person to walk out of someone’s wedding reception before the food is served, when you KNOW the bride’s parents already paid for your plate.  They paid for your spot, because they wanted YOU to have it.  They could’ve chosen someone else. Unless you have an emergency or something pretty major come up, it’s rude and disrespectful to just leave.  Everyone understands that unforeseen things come up….. but catch my drift?  (Again, I know I’ve been a hypocrite in the past on some of these concepts (such as RSVP), but I’m learning.  I’m trying).

   

3. Do something nice for someone without ANY motive.  There doesn’t always have to be a payment from the other party, a barter, or a “deal worked out.”  What if every now and then we went out of our way and did something nice for someone, “just because?”  I’m going to go ahead and say, I think this one may be one of my strengths.  I feel like I do this one a lot.  In fact, sometimes I feel like I’ve taken this one a little over the top at times….but I’m sure in God’s eyes there have been times I could’ve done more, for every single time I think I may have “given too much.” At the end of the day, I’d rather give too much than too little.  But guys, seriously, sometimes we really should take off our “business, money-making, hat” for a minute.  Not everything has to be a huge contract with a signature on the line.  Every now and then, how about just doing something nice for someone….just because we wanted to bless them?  I’m not suggesting we let ourselves get “walked all over,” because we DO have bills to pay.  Many of us have businesses to run and jobs to do.  But still….there can be a balance.  What if you randomly brought someone their favorite coffee?  Wrote a letter of encouragement and sent it the old snail mail way?  What if you picked someone up from the airport and decide to turn down the $20 bill they offer you?
4. If you have a good experience with someone’s service or business, write up a nice 5 star review for them. It only takes a couple minutes.  Why not?  If you yourself have a service or business, you know you would like the kind reviews too.  What’s more?  You could even share their page, or promote their posts on YOUR social media page.  If our pages are ONLY full of selfies and/or our latest accolades, perhaps we need to reexamine.  We can spare and share a spot for others sometimes too, right?

   

5. Allow yourself to be inconvenienced every now and then.  This kind of goes along with #3, but can be all its own in some ways too.  My Pastor talks about this point a lot as well.  He teaches us that we should walk through crowds slowly, and pay attention to the needs of those around us.  Maybe the LAST thing I want to do on a Saturday night is give someone a ride 30 minutes across town, but just maybe, sometimes I should.  Maybe on that 30 minute ride, I’ll be able to give them encouragement.  Maybe they will get out of my car blessed and inspired.  Maybe sometimes we should lighten a co-worker’s load…..just because we can.  Maybe sometimes we should talk to that sweet elderly woman at the grocery for 15 minutes…..just because we can.  Maybe she needs your company more than you need to get home and cook dinner.  Allowing yourself to be inconvenienced every now and then is perhaps the unofficial definition of “selflessness.”

   

So there you have it.  The bottom line is, everyone is craving authenticity and selflessness.  People love to see kindness without motive.  Yes, the world craves “love,” as it is always said…..but without authenticity and selflessness, love isn’t genuine.  It doesn’t exist.  Love is easy.  True selflessness requires more effort.  No matter what our schedule or career path is, every day we have a chance to be an example of  “selflessness.”

I’d love hear your thoughts on all of the above:  Sound off in the comment section below!

The post 5 Steps to Striving for Selflessness in a Self-Absorbed Society appeared first on Homestead Holly.

Dawn’s passion and expertise IS in the design world, so I can simply sit back and listen. As we had our latest conversation, I begged her to allow me to blog about it.  Thankfully, she agreed.  Our conversation was about choosing the proper light fixtures for your home.  

As I write this post, many of us are spending more time in our homes than ever before.  Therefore, it is the perfect time to boost the lighting in our homes, or to at least begin a plan.  Just the light fixtures alone can be the difference between a desirable inviting space, and a dark, lonely one. Not only can some new light fixtures add lighting and character to your home, but it can also boost your mood.

Now, let me say ahead of time:  You do not need to head out to a home improvement store to make this transformation happen.  You CAN order a great deal of your supplies online.  

A helpful tip:  Order your supplies directly from Dawn D. Totty’s ideabook on Houzz and receive an instant 5% off discount.   Dawn’s ideabook has some very attractive and modern light fixtures choices.

Most recently, Dawn has been working with Teems Electric (of Ringgold, GA), to achieve some of her most important light fixture goals yet.  Teems specializes in both residential and commercial electrical work.  They are currently graciously volunteering for one of the most near and dear projects Dawn has ever been associated with.  With Teems Electric by her side, Dawn is working to create an uplifting and nurturing environment at the Children’s Advocacy Center in Jasper, TN. 

With that said, in previous posts, you may remember that Dawn has expressed how vital proper lighting is.  When it comes to brightening up your space, she emphasizes that everything from window treatments to paint color matters (Sherwin-Williams is her favorite).  Today though, we are going to focus solely on those light fixtures.  As always, Dawn doesn’t share just what to do……but she also dishes on how to do it.

Dawn’s tips for choosing proper light fixtures:

•  Ceiling height:  The higher the ceiling, the larger the light fixture should be.  If the ceiling is shorter, its length should not exceed 18 inches.

“For rooms with shorter ceilings, I recommend going with a light fixture that is more horizontal vs. vertical in shape.  It will simply look more showy and add character to your room,” reveals Dawn.   

“ Avoid light fixtures that hang too high or too low.  It should always be approximately 6 foot 7 inches from the bottom of the fixture to the floor. If you have a 28 foot ceiling, you should go the standard 8-10 feet from the floor,” emphasizes Totty.

•  Triple and quad lighting fixtures vs. one single light fixtures:  Dawn is a big fan of clusters of pendants and chandeliers.  

“You can use 3 full-sized chandeliers on one ceiling if it’s big enough.  I also like to stagger the lights, and prefer odd numbers of lights to even,”suggests Dawn.

“When it comes to contemporary kitchen island lighting, I would suggest a very large 4 ft. LED light.  You can go with a very long horizontal pendant, or you can go with 3 pendants depending on the size of course.  And when it comes to recessed light fixtures?  You can have too many, I promise.  I like pendant lights over a kitchen sink vs. recessed.  With the pendants,  you get nice ambient lighting – yet it’s an opportunity to create a little personality rather than simply have a light disk in the ceiling,”she adds.

•  Mixing metal finishes:  As Dawn has also emphasized in past posts, your home doesn’t have to be predictable or cookie-cutter.  She enjoys going outside of the box and mixing it up. 

“You can always mix your metal finishes.  A combination of brass and pewter is perfect,”explains Dawn.

•  Expensive vs. cost-effective:  Dawn is all about salvaging, refinishing and making the most of what you already have whenever possible.  Sometimes, the same can even be true of your current light fixtures.  Not every light absolutely has to be replaced – especially if it’s not in the budget.  

“Avoid fixating on buying that $300 light fixture.  Always buy the shape and size that is suitable for the space, as well as your personal style.  Sometimes all you need to do is buy a $5 can of spray paint (with primer) and refinish,” she reveals.

Though ceiling fans are not among Dawn’s preferred light fixtures, she emphasizes that even those can be improved for a small price.  

“If the ceiling is white, and you know you cannot budget enough to replace the ceiling fan – simply paint the blades the same color as the ceiling.  Remove your blades, take them outside, lay them on a big black garbage bag, and spray them with 2 or 3 coats of spray paint (with primer).  It will make your fan blend in more appropriately with your ceiling, rather than look like a big black spider hanging down,” she shares.

•  Light bulbs: Most important of all?  If you want adequate lighting, you must choose the right bulbs to make it happen.  

“A lot of people don’t necessarily think light bulbs matter, but they matter tremendously. LED bulbs are always the best option.  There are warm LEDS and then there are cool LEDS, which give off absolutely no heat. In the south, that is always the best option of course,” says Totty.

•  Exterior lighting:  

Dawn stresses that though interior lighting is crucial, we should also give attention to our exterior – especially if we are looking to sell anytime soon.

“About 85% of potential home buyers will drive by to look at your home at night.  Exterior illumination, porch entry light fixtures and landscaping lighting are all part of the curb appeal and “wow factor.”  Your exterior entrance light should be covered or semi-covered….not a flush mount.  It always adds value to a property to see a pretty light fixture vs. just a glow,” expresses Totty.

Needless to say, lighting can truly be everything.  What are some of your favorite light fixture styles?  Sound off in the comment section below.  

To keep up with Dawn D. Totty and her latest projects, follow her on Facebook and Instagram.

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About Dawn D. Totty Designs

Dawn D. Totty is an innovative Interior Designer focused on service, customization, enhancing property value and affordably designing spaces to reach their full potential.  Whether a home or business renovation, she has been successfully meeting individual needs and bringing personal visions to life, everywhere she goes.  As a self-described “problem solver,” Totty consistently saves her clients time and money, while reflecting their personal styles at affordable rates.  With a background which began in the New York Fashion industry, Totty has been designing people, places and spaces for 23 years.

In addition to her aesthetic talents and undeniable creativity, lies the mind of an entrepreneur.  She’s a real estate investor with a highly favorable track record.  She has been known to consistently make sizeable profits off of her investments as she has a trained eye for what potential buyers look for.  From homes, to business environments, Totty’s designs have been positively impacting lives both personally and professionally.

In the past year, Dawn’s designs have been featured in over 50 publications, including House Beautiful, Realtor.com, Reader’s Digest, City Scope, Chatter (Times Free Press), Stir Magazine (Sherwin Williams) Vie Magazine, American Farmhouse, and Contemporary Stone + Tile DESIGN. Most recently, Dawn was named the “Best Interior Designer” in Chattanooga’s 2019 “Best of the best” awards.

The post How to create exceptional lighting in your home (With Interior Designer Dawn D. Totty) appeared first on Homestead Holly.

When Dawn first proposed the topic of “bedroom clutter” affecting one’s sleep, I felt both excited and convicted at the same time.  My current struggle in our own master bedroom is that it doubles as our nursery.  (Yes, I can see you cringing).  However, with our home setup, it is simply the most ideal situation for us.  We have a fairly large two story home, and our master bedroom (with the awesome closet is located downstairs).  All of the other bedrooms are upstairs, and I simply do not want my baby far away from us at night.  Therefore, I have had to do some serious improvising. While I am somewhat proud of the finished product, it doesn’t mean that I am completely satisfied either. Still, I’ve noticed with every single purge I do, the more peacefully I sleep.  Dawn’s tips also continue to help me create a more soothing sleep space day by day.

The picture below is Dawn’s work (not my bedroom), just so you know…

Let’s just say that this interview with Dawn has inspired me yet again!  So now, without further ado, let’s hear from our favorite design expert (Dawn D. Totty of Dawn D. Totty Designs):

“When you follow the clutter trail, it will almost always lead to a lack of storage or not knowing how to organize,” shares Totty.

“Your bedroom is where you begin and end your day, so it is vital that you have a peaceful clutter-free sleeping environment,” she adds.

Now, here are a few pro organizer tips to de-clutter your bedroom according to Dawn D. Totty of Dawn D. Totty Designs:

“Designers are all about creating functional zones or areas designed for specific uses – such as the corner of the room reserved for a small desk/office, make up station, as well as dressing and sitting areas, etc.  Compartmentalizing each area of the room will keep the room functional, as well as organized,” reveals Totty.

“Go vertical and as far up to the ceiling as possible, with built in or open concept shelving, to accommodate books, hats, baskets for accessories etc., she continues.”

“The average size of a queen bed is about 6’x5′ in diameter, so take full advantage of all of the space underneath your bed! Plastic bins, baskets and roller drawers are perfect for storing sweaters, boots, coats and hats.

So, where can we turn to get some of Dawn’s recommended items?  In a word:  Houzz.

“This set of 2 under drawer on rollers from Houzz can help utilize the space under your bed, as well as be aesthetically pleasing.  There are 12 different colors to choose from,” suggests Totty.

“Storage benches, chests and upholstered ottomans such as this moroccan gray lift top upholstered storage ottoman makes for easy access to blankets, sweaters and bed linens, as well as additional seating.  It is under $200 and saves space when placed at the foot of your bed,” continues Totty.

Now, let’s talk laundry.  Eek, yes….laundry.

“Laundry can be a major source of clutter.  If you have an accessible laundry bag placed on a hook on the back of a closet door you will eliminate floor clutter.  The Dll Bath Mesh Laundry Bag (Gray) can be purchased on Houzz for just $22.69,” reveals Dawn.

The use of hooks don’t just pertain to laundry, however.

“Hooks placed near doors for easy access for frequently used items such as a handbag, jacket, or keys, will make life easier and more clutter free.  This set of 4 Elios Hooks can be a great asset in minimizing bedroom clutter,” she adds.

Hanging organizers hung on a bedroom closet rod will accommodate belts, ties and scarves and keep them all together in one specific place. Houzz also features a plethora of options for hanging organizers.  The iDesign Scarf Organizer is just one of many.

What about those every day essentials that get all mismatched and disorganized in our dresser drawers?  Well, Dawn has a solution there too.

“Drawer dividers will ensure your socks and under garments will always be organized and neat.  This Traci Bamboo spring loaded adjustable drawer divider comes in a set of 4,” shares Dawn.

Some of our other spatial friends?

“Baskets are the best kept trick for just about everything storage related. They can slide under a bed, or be kept at the bedside for remotes, magazines or an extra blanket,” explains Dawn.

“Also, anytime you can get a nightstand with drawers and shelves, those will be far more functional vs. a small table,” she adds.

The Winsome Wood/Curved End Table/Night stand with one drawer is a simple, yet excellent example of what Dawn is referring to.  You can currently find it on Houzz for just $63.45.

Organizing, maximizing, decluttering and accenting our spaces is not an overnight project.  However, it is one of the most important projects we can partake in.  There is no better time than now to start creating a peaceful slumber space.  (Wishing you all a whole lot of undisturbed and restful sleep.  Stay well, friends)!

To keep up with Dawn D. Totty’s latest projects and design tips, follow her on Facebook and Instagram.

************************************************************************

About Dawn D. Totty Designs

Dawn D. Totty is an innovative Interior Designer focused on service, customization, enhancing property value and affordably designing spaces to reach their full potential.  Whether a home or business renovation, she has been successfully meeting individual needs and bringing personal visions to life, everywhere she goes.  As a self-described “problem solver,” Totty consistently saves her clients time and money, while reflecting their personal styles at affordable rates.  With a background which began in the New York Fashion industry, Totty has been designing people, places and spaces for 23 years.

In addition to her aesthetic talents and undeniable creativity, lies the mind of an entrepreneur.  She’s a real estate investor with a highly favorable track record.  She has been known to consistently make sizeable profits off of her investments as she has a trained eye for what potential buyers look for.  From homes, to business environments, Totty’s designs have been positively impacting lives both personally and professionally.

In the past year, Dawn’s designs have been featured in over 50 publications, including House Beautiful, Realtor.com, Reader’s Digest, City Scope, Chatter (Times Free Press), Stir Magazine (Sherwin Williams) Vie Magazine, American Farmhouse, and Contemporary Stone + Tile DESIGN. Most recently, Dawn was named the “Best Interior Designer” in Chattanooga’s 2019 “Best of the best” awards.

The post Is Bedroom Clutter Compromising Your Sleep? (With Interior Designer Dawn D. Totty) appeared first on Homestead Holly.

I quickly learned that when it comes to finances it’s often less about what you have and more about what you do with what you have. 

Like most young adults though, I made some poor “big purchase” decisions in this area simply because I thought it was time to make that purchase.  You learn as you go, right?  I sure did.

I have also learned that sometimes what makes the biggest difference in our financial lives is how we view the small purchases….the things we less often think about.  Sure it’s important to think through that $5,000 purchase you’re about to make, but do you ever think about your $5 purchases before you make them?  For most, a few impulsive $5 purchases aren’t going to be a make or break.

However, when impulsive $5 purchases stack up over time, it can make all the difference in your financial life.

Remember, I come to you not as a “perfect voice,” but as a work in progress….and as someone who can relate.  I will never become a financial advisor.  I will never be the one to help you with your 401K or investments.  I am simply going to touch on some basics that have made all the different in my life.

I stand by the fact that my frugal ways have always paid off….and will always pay off.  Below, you will find a few of my humble, but hopefully helpful tips.  My whole post is going to center around one basic idea, and it isn’t rocket science.  (I’m going to divide these posts up into a series, so I’m not going to get overly deep today).

Still, I’m amazed by how many people I meet who do not share my passions in this area or seriously over-complicate the simple process:

Like I said, this particular post is going to center around 1 basic concept with a bunch of sub-points: 

Never pay regular price unless absolutely necessary.

Now, I’m going to go ahead and say right now that you can’t get EVERYTHING on sale or for less.  I’m aware of that.  However, I’m also amazed by those who simply don’t take advantage of the sale item over the regular priced item which seem to be the same thing…..or are “too proud” to use the coupon.  I’ve known of people to “turn down” a Kroger card offered to them at checkout and to refuse to use the coupon handed to them….just because.  And I’m sorry, but I’m not going to sugarcoat it.  That’s just plain silly and financially irresponsible.

Which leads me to my first point:

1)  Use the coupons, store savings cards, and/or the promo codes.  This is easy – not some HUGE golden nugget, yet I see so many not take the time to do this.  Does it take a little time?  Sure, but not nearly as much as the naysayers think.

Whether it’s for a restaurant, auto repair, or a clothing store, use it.  It’s money you don’t need to spend.  Can you save yourself $5 on your oil change?  Cool. It’s money that will be helpful for the dinner you are about to pick up.  Paper coupons still come in the mail – look at them.  Coupons are available online – print them.  Many stores offer digital downloads – load them. Promo codes are often available on websites – apply them.  Is an area child or one of your own selling a savings book?  Support the cause and save some money in the long-run. Earn your fuel points, and then fill up at THAT gas station vs. another, whenever possible.

2)  Take advantage of the sales unless it’s just REALLY not what you want. 

Restaurants:  When I go to a restaurant (and they have a lunch menu) 9 times out of 10, I can find something that sounds perfectly good on there.  The portion is also probably just the right size.  Unless your heart is set on the 6 oz. sirloin for $12.99 (and you do deserve those days), why ignore the $5.99 lunch menu that could save you $7.00?  Some splurges are certainly okay, but when you won’t even LOOK at that menu because it’s cheaper, I don’t understand that? Also, do you have to order soda EVERY time?  Water is better for you….and well, usually free too.  I call that a win-win.

Another restaurant tip:  I realize not all restaurants love this tip, and I wouldn’t do this at every restaurant and in every scenario…..but share a meal when possible (or box up half for another meal).  Most of us probably don’t need that huge platter to ourselves.  Now, I will say this though:  If you share a meal or use a coupon….DO NOT let that mean a lower tip for your server.  If you cannot afford to tip a server appropriately, then you shouldn’t be eating out period.  Please tip them as if you never used a coupon and/or shared a meal.  There is a difference in being frugal and in being a cheapskate.  No one likes a cheapskate.  You can both save money and leave your server with a smile.

Grocery Shopping:  Buy generic whenever possible.  Every store I can think of has their own line of generic brands. Now, I’ll be the first to admit that there is OCCASIONALLY a difference in brands on certain items.  I have my diva moments in this area.  If I’m baking, I’m probably going to get the brand name flour, for example.  I also don’t like cheap toothbrushes, among other things.  When it comes to bottled water, I am a Nestle Purelife snob.  Additionally, I don’t like harmful ingredients, and I find all of the genetically modified foods worriesome (though I’ll never be perfect in this area).  About half (or close to) of what I buy is organic, and I tell myself that’s at least a step in the right direction.  What’s great is that a lot of the organic items also come in a reasonable generic brand now too (Simple Truth at Kroger and some of the Great Value brand at Walmart).  I also know Aldi’s is now totally pro-organic…and cheap!

Remember this basic rule of thumb though, especially if you’re buying “junk” anyways:  That cream of chicken soup probably doesn’t have to be Campbell’s when you have the Save-A lot version of it in front of you for almost .50 less.  If you are buying Hamburger Buns, you probably don’t need the Ball Park Brand for $1.49 if you see Kroger brand sitting there for .89.  If you’re going to buy sugary cereal, there is almost ALWAYS an off-brand for $1-$3 cheaper.  If buying all generic on a shopping trip saves you $3….well, there is $3 you didn’t have before, right?

Clothing and other retailers:  It may clutter your inbox up a bit, but sign up for their special offers e-mails.

First of all, I shop A LOT at stores like Marshall’s, Ross, Burke’s and TJ Maxx.  I like discount stores and find some of my favorite clothes at these stores.

Anyone who knows me knows I also save money at Kohl’s like nobody’s business.  Helloooooo 30% off cards on already clearanced items, Kohl’s cash, Yes Rewards and whatever else I have on hand. (And though I have to use my charge account on some of these purchases to get them for those prices, I’ve almost ALWAYS turned around and paid off my charge right after putting it on there). Paying off your card right after using it just for discount purposes is key.  I’m certainly not advocating putting a charge on a credit card and leaving it sit.  If you don’t have the money to go to Kohl’s at that time, you are better off not going period.  With that said, it isn’t unusual for me to spend $30 and save $200……  It is completely doable.

Also, don’t be afraid to check out the clearance racks.  You may find some of your favorite outfits on there if you are just willing to look.  Now, I will also say that if you buy something only because it’s on clearance, everything becomes counterproductive.  Don’t buy things you aren’t sure about just because they’re cheap…because then it will sit in your closet with tags still intact. Then, it will end up in your next yard sale or Goodwill bag.  Sometimes you should go ahead and pay just a little extra to get what you love…..BUT, look at that dang clearance rack first!

You will also never catch me going into Hobby Lobby without my 40% off coupon ready, unless of course the items I want are already on sale.  (They also have great clearance sections!)

*Other stores like JCPenney, Victoria’s Secret, Sephora AND SO MANY OTHERS offer a wide variety of perks, birthday gifts, coupons and special offers.

Oh, and don’t be too good for the dollar tree either.  I could write a lot of great things about them!

3)  Do not be afraid of thrift stores, Facebook Marketplace, yard sales and second hand:  Some things you just want to buy new.  Yes, I agree.  But then, there are PLENTY of items that do not need to be new.  If you hit the Goodwill or Salvation Army on just the right day, you might find the used-once wedding decor you are looking for.  You may even find like-new V-Tech toys for your child for $1, when you know that same toy costs $40 at Target.  What else?  BOOKS!  You can find perfectly clean and brand new looking popular board books for children.  If it looks like it’s never been read and it’s .50, why go buy it for $7 elsewhere?  Maybe the yard sale you just stopped at has the dog kennel you were looking for at $10 when you know it goes for $129.99 at PetSmart.  Or maybe they have the board game you just played at a friend’s housewarming party and loved?  Isn’t $2 better than paying $20?  Is there really any good reason why you can’t EVER consider used?  If you decide you don’t want the item, you didn’t lose much, did you?  Just re-donate it.  As I said, some things are just too germy or risky, but most of the time?  Just clean the item up a bit if necessary.  Sometimes a wet wipe is all you need.  These are just a few of the countless examples you can save big on.

4)  Stock up on your favorite items while they are on sale:  (I am going to get on this A LOT more in part 2 of this series). I also want to make it known that when I say stock up, I’m NOT encouraging clutter or hoarding.

I am not talking about becoming like someone they would cast for the “Extreme Couponers” show.  I think buying 200 bottles of ketchup just because you can get them for 3 cents each is silly and unnecessary unless you run a happening business that needs that many bottles.  I guess if you are a big party planner or restaurant owner it could make SOME sense, but still.  Or hey, I could see SOME “extreme couponing” if you were donating to a food bank or doing it for a good purpose.  Otherwise, no, no and no. Like I said – CLUTTER.  YUCK!  Not to mention, expiration dates.  Anyways, that’s so not what I’m saying here, okay?

What I am saying though is DO stock up on some things that will keep.  The key is to buy your favorite brands and non-perishable products when they are on sale and/or you have special coupons, promotions or additional savings.  When you buy your favorites during their sale times, you not only save money, but you have your items on hand when you do need them.  If you know you are always going to end up buying these brands, why don’t you buy them when they are as cheap or even cheaper than the products you aren’t as crazy about?  For example, let’s say Tide Purclean is your favorite detergent and that it is regularly priced at $8.99 where you shop.  When it’s goes on sale for $5.99 AND you have a $3.00 off coupon, why not buy it then, even if you have a brand new bottle already at home?  If you buy it when it’s cheap, you will have it on hand, and then not get stuck buying it when it is full priced.  Whether you see it this way or not, it saves you $6.00 for the year.

Some of my personal favorite items to stock up on and have readily available for when I run out, are detergent, body washes, hand soaps, toilet paper, paper towels, toothbrushes, diapers, baby wipes and a couple extra tubes of toothpaste. However, I never go overboard, because then I defeat my purpose and end up in Clutterville.  I keep most of my little stock all in one little shelf section of my closet, and when I run out of something, I just head to my little inventory area.  When it comes to those type of items, we are seldom “out,” and because I stock up during sales, I save more on future grocery trips.

5) Wait until you can afford it.  Again, not rocket science.  Getting approved for a credit card does not mean you can afford it.  Maybe you want a new couch, but you’re still living paycheck to paycheck.  Want a new car even though yours is running fine?  Wait until you have the means and/or a huge sale happens.  (Most things do go on sale eventually).  Your future self will thank you later.

6)  Be aware of budget busters.  Are you eating out for lunch every day you go to work?  There goes part of your paycheck right there.  Do some meal-planning.  Make things that reheat well and can serve as leftovers for the next day.  Are you drinking the $5 coffee every day, rather than having it as an occasional here and there treat?  Or at the least, is there somewhere else where you can get it for $1-$2 instead?  Are you heading to the nail salon and swiping that credit card when you’re struggling to afford groceries and your car payment? Are you still paying for cable when you could possibly just be happy with Netflix?  Are you paying for delivery when you could easily drive 2 minutes and pick it up yourself?

Sometimes we have to think about what’s truly a necessity and what isn’t.  We can’t be perfect all the time, but continually falling prey to budget busters when you don’t have the means is a sure way to end up in eventual financial distress.

7)  Find cheap entertainment.  Sure you need to go out sometimes.  You need to go to the game, head to the movie theater or buy the concert tickets every now and then.  It’s good to reward yourself and good to get out of the house.  But, are you out of the house to where you have your wallet begging for mercy?  It’s not a bad thing to sometimes watch the movie you already have, or to pull out the board game you already have, is it? Play corn hole in your back yard, build a fire or go on a walk.  Google fun in-home science experiments and crafts you can do with your kids.  Utilize your Pinterest account. Learn to organize your house and learn to enjoy the process (Dollar Tree is full of cheap organization items, FYI).  Listen to YouTube videos, how-to’s, free podcasts, etc.  Better yet – serve at your church and help out your community.

8)  Take advantage of savings apps.  Here is another thing I am going to get into more on my next post.  Since this is a big detailed topic for me, I decided to do the apps topic completely separate.  In short though, there are A LOT of great savings apps out there.  You can earn cash back and gift cards simply for buying items you need……or just scanning your receipts!  Not only am I going to reveal the ones I use in the next post – I am also going to take the time to actually explain all of them.  I don’t recall ever reading any big tutorials on any of them prior to using them, so I am going to try to be that person for all of you!  (Stayed tuned for part 2).

Aside from all of that, I will leave you with this:  Whether it’s a free sub or a free car wash, try to go get it if you have it (and of course if it’s something you like or actually need).

While you’re at it, sign up for those reward programs, earn your points, clip coupons, do price comparisons and search the net for additional savings.

What are some of your favorite savings tips?  Feel free to share them in the comment section!

Part 2 coming soon!

The post Fabulously Frugal: Holly’s Humble But Helpful Savings Tips (Part 1) appeared first on Homestead Holly.

As promised earlier (now months back), I am going to share HOW we had the wedding of our dreams….yet kept things humble in the process.

So here goes:

Ever since December 24, 2016, I had been planning our wedding.  My then boyfriend (now husband), Kyle, popped the question that day at the Union Station Hotel.  Kyle hired Adelaide Street Media to capture our big moment.  This unforgettable moment was just our beginning, however.

Every day following that day has been a blur.  A mostly beautiful blur, but nonetheless, a blur.  The whole entire wedding process was a blur, as was our wedding itself.  Still, that late summer day was a somehow very memorable blur that I’ll forever cherish.  Though it all went by too quickly, all that planning was worth it in the end.  Ever since that day, I’ve found myself replaying those special moments in my head daily.

Looking back now, I see why every single day mattered from December 24, 2016 to August 19, 2017.  I (along with those who helped me) seemingly needed a full eight months to put the wedding I wanted in motion.  (Apparently, I also need even longer to publish this promised blog).  I suppose I probably could have planned the wedding in a little less time, but I’m glad I didn’t have to.

Confession:  I was so excited to get engaged to the man I’ve waited for my whole life.  I knew I was marrying the right person, and today, I know I married the right person.  However, the early wedding planning process itself left me discouraged and appalled by a great deal of today’s wedding industry.  As I called venues and vendors, I found myself seriously contemplating elopement.  My then fiance’ said from the get-go he was more than fine with a courthouse wedding.  To keep my chin up, he even told me he didn’t care if we got married on the side of the street somewhere…..he was still marrying me.  As we had these kinds of talks, I had to remind myself what truly mattered in the long run:

It was the marriage….NOT the wedding.

Sure, a majority of women in this world dream of the right dress, a movie-like setting and an overall beautiful day, but I had to remind myself not to get wrapped up in a wedding alone.  Now, almost a year later……I’m so glad I didn’t.

Again though, that’s not to say I didn’t have a gorgeous, memorable wedding.  In fact, I continue to be told just that. That’s also not to say that any part of me regrets putting so much time and effort into my day.  The beautiful memories I’m left with would make me do the same thing all over again. What I didn’t have though was an overly commercialized, ridiculously extravagant, over the top hoopla-filled, day.  Beautiful AND humble is entirely possible, my future brides.

As I said in Part 1 of this series:  If you want any kind of a traditional wedding, a beautiful dress, a photographer, videographer, DJ, flowers and a meal for people……you’re not going to get by free.  You’re just not (unless you’re a contest winner of some sort).  You’re probably not even going to get by “cheap,” but even in the terms of a mostly greedy industry, you can most definitely be on the humble end…..and when your day is over, you’ll sleep better knowing you opted for that route.

Want to know an alarming figure?: The average cost of a wedding (especially in a big city like Nashville) is falling somewhere in the lower end of $20,000 and ranging to about $45,000.  Some websites say $30,000 is the new average…..but no matter what the case, these rates are a lot of people’s yearly salaries.  Though, not the average, in an area like this, weddings costing $100,000 and up aren’t unheard of either.  Now, that’s not to say there aren’t a great deal of people still spending under $10,000.  They’re just having to really budget and pay attention to what they’re spending.

If you or someone you know spent on the upwards end…..I’m not knocking anyone’s personal decision.  I just knew that wasn’t going to work for my personal situation.  Also, this is a frugal blog….so frugal is what I intend to stick to.

Now, my advice may not mean much to you, but honestly, I wish more people had been there to advise me along the way.  Thankfully, I had some good, informative people who did, but still, many days I felt like such a rookie (probably because I was)!

Sooo with that said….*drum roll*……..Here is what I did in a nutshell:

After researching about 200 venues and feeling sick after talking to 98% of them, I landed on the beautiful Five Oaks Country Club in Lebanon, TN.  When I went to visit Five Oaks, it was a no-brainer:  Their pricing was on planet earth, THEY did the food for me (no outside caterer!!….Can we say, “Glory, Hallelujah!?”) AND I had the pleasure of working with their awesome events coordinator, Ashley.  In addition to being helpful, knowledgeable and proactive, she put me at ease throughout the whole entire process.  With Ashley, there wasn’t any dumb questions, and she was more than happy to coordinate all the things that this “wedding planning rookie” was completely clueless about.

Five Oaks is more beautiful than I can put into words.  As the highest point in Wilson County, the view is breathtaking. It looks more like an East TN location than a Middle TN one.  There is so much natural beauty there.  I knew I didn’t want a blank canvas, but there was plenty of room for us to add our own touches. The reception room was also just what we needed.  They had an area for BOTH Kyle and I to get ready and to relax in.  It was in a great location which worked out well for our local and out of town guests.  To get in line with space, I had to condense my guest list several times.  I have to honestly say that’s the hardest part, but in the end, the amount we had felt just right.

Here are just a few pictures of the venue (Both inside and outside):

Okay, so I know what the current wedding trends are:  Rustic barn weddings are probably still by far #1 on the list. As a baby, I lived my first time years of life on a dairy farm and farming was (and still very much is) a huge deal of both sides of the house.  It’s a way of life. My parents’ home sits on several acres and has not one, but two barns (one of which is as old and as rustic as you can get – it’s currently full of chickens).  Way back in the day, I used to think maybe I’d get married in a barn one day to express my style and individuality, but when a wedding was about to be reality for me, I started thinking deeper on it.  I wanted to be comfortable on my big day, but I also wanted to feel like I was doing something slightly outside my box.  I always pictured that one day of my life feeling a little more glamorous than my prior typical every day life.  I started thinking about how it’d feel to get married in a mansion or some place I don’t normally frequent. Though I’ve never wanted ridiculously flashy, I kind of wanted this day to stand apart from all the rest.  I wanted a little more bling than typical Holly.  I also wanted a variety of color.  I kind of wanted to go somewhere only somewhat unpredictable, yet very comfortable.  Also, I couldn’t justify renting a barn here (for their asking prices), when we have countless family barns back home.

I also just simply didn’t want to do the wedding in Ohio.  I wanted to do it in TN.  Kyle and I live in TN (he’s lived here his whole life), and I’ve been here since 2005.  Truth be told….most of my closest friends now are right here in TN.  I also felt my closest friends and family from Ohio may even enjoy a fun little weekend vacation considering Lebanon is only 20-30 minutes from downtown Nashville.

Yes, I could have gotten married at the awesome church where I’m a member, but for several reasons, it was kind of easier just to do a one stop situation for everyone.  Our awesome pastor was thrilled to come officiate it at Five Oaks.

When I stumbled across the country club, it felt right.  First of all, it was in Lebanon away from downtown Nashville.  I knew I wanted a laid back setting with zero parking issues that day.  I tend to stress about small spaces and parking, and knew I needed something that people could easily get to and hang out at for the day.  Lebanon is also closer to Crossville (where Kyle’s whole half of the guest list would be coming from).  It’s also on the side of town I’ve always loved most.

It just felt like the spot where I could say I do.  Remember how I said I wanted the day to feel somewhat like me, but with something a little extra? My family has always liked big open spaces, golf courses, driving ranges and putt putt kind of places, though they are not our every day surroundings. We even have a golf cart on our farm.  In perfect natural fashion, dad got to drive me up to our walkway on a golf cart, which felt a bit like home (without actually being home).  Something was so calming about him driving me up on a golf course.  I felt so at peace. I felt comfortable and like “Holly,” but I felt like it was a unique, once-in-a-lifetime day all at the same time.

*The Ceremony Recap*

As you’ll read later, we had a “family only” bridal party for a good reason.

We went the traditional route with having ushers.  My longest-running Nashville friend Mark served for my guests, while Kyle’s cousin Andy escorted his side in.

We also went with a lot of traditional wedding music.  I have ALWAYS wanted Pachelbel’s Cannon in D playing during my ceremony, and I was not about to change my mind.  However, I also had one of my best friends (Kamber Cain) sing one of her original songs, “Your Love Is Like a Sunday” shortly before our entrances.

When I walked up on the ceremony sight that day, I was blown away and had to hold back tears.  So many times in life, I’ve had a bad habit of picturing things as more beautiful than they actually turn out.  This time it was the complete opposite.  The sight was full of natural beauty and the special touches our florists and families added were absolutely amazing.  It also helped that the weather was perfect.  For a year, I was concerned about bad weather and the forecast had even teased it almost all the way up until this day, but it was wrong.  Our family and friends were there showing their love and support.  Dad and I were finally having the walk I dreamed about my whole life.  In perfect Holly fashion though, we were standing back there debating on the “here comes the bride” song and if it was truly time for us to walk or not.  After a motion from our DJ and coordinator, we proceeded forward.  I couldn’t believe I was finally to that moment.

When I saw Kyle choking up at the end of the altar upon seeing me, I began choking up and was was afraid I’d lose my composure.  Somehow, I managed to mostly keep my composure, though I was hanging on by a thread.  My Aunt later told me our reactions to one another showed our genuine love for one another and made the entire ceremony a great experience for everyone.  We had a dream-like ceremony, which was short and sweet (just how I wanted).  Pastor Rob put us at ease, because he’s just that kind of a person, and as expected, he “said a lot in a little time frame.”  I wanted it to be a very Christ-centered ceremony….and Pastor Rob sure made that happen.

Okay, so this is going to feel a bit out of order, but let’s talk about what went into the ceremony and everything following it.

My dress.  This is obviously a big deal to a bride’s day, but no golden nuggets here, guys.  I found exactly what I wanted at David’s Bridal…..and no it wasn’t regular price.  Yay!  I truly believe you can get a gorgeous dress AND veil without spending a fortune. Soon after my engagement, I went dress shopping with my sister and one of my best friends.  Though I wasn’t completely sure of what the exact style would be, I had an idea.  Though I have a somewhat eclectic personality, my signature style has always been “country chic.” I’ve forever loved lace, but I’ve also forever loved bling.  I’ve also always had a vintage/victorian heart.  Combine the three and you get my dream dress.  I went with what I thought would be “timeless” to me.  The vintage-like/yet modernized lace overlay was very unique to me and hard to come by.  It also was light and cooler for a hot August wedding.  I knew I wasn’t meant to wear a ball gown or anything with a fluffy bottom.  While I think they are beautiful on other brides, I never pictured myself in one.  I think it’s just one of those “when you know, you know,” things. Somehow, I knew form-fitting was what I would always end up with.  I just didn’t know if it would be a-line or mermaid style.  After putting on both, it was clear, I was an a-line girl.  It also was as comfortable as a wedding dress could be and mostly made to fit, except a super minor alteration I would later do.  I knew I may not run across something like it twice.   I didn’t want to be overly trendy or go with anything that I could possibly regret years later.  I knew I wanted a train, but not a super long one.  This dress had everything I wanted.  I went “safe” and “Holly-like,” while feeling like it was still like it was the most elegant dress of my life.  I found just the right veil and shoes to compliment for just the prices I was wanting.

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What else did we do to make sure our budget didn’t get out of control?

1. Other than first and foremost booking a venue that we felt comfort with, we “made” what we could.  There is a time for Etsy and a time for purchasing stuff….but there is also a time to make your own.  My dad and brother put together a simple/outdoorsey ceremony arbor they made out of branches and tree stumps (as you likely noticed in our ceremony photos).  Here is another refresh:When the florist, along with my mother and father-in-law got ahold of it, the results took my breath away.  Sorry Etsy….I love you, but we didn’t need you here at all.  Also, the three cord strand board for my unity ceremony?  My dad was able to use barn siding he had laying around.  He constructed the board, painted and used some twine…..and it was seriously the coolest thing ever. I liked it better than anything on Etsy. I also had him get inventive with plenty of other things.  
2. My sister is a hairstylist, so I obviously had the privilege of her doing my hair and makeup.  She knows me better than anyone.  She knew on my wedding day I wanted to look “extra glam”….yet like Holly. She knows on any given average day, I spend a whole five minutes on makeup.  If I’m just going to work or living my average life, I  just do up my eyes and use a little concealer.  If I’m running to the store on a day off (I probably don’t wear any…haha).  I don’t do blush, foundation or lip color, unless someone else is doing my makeup for a major event (which does occasionally happen). While she had me go outside my usual box, she made sure it wasn’t in an excessive or heavy way.  Though I wanted to look like a bride…I didn’t want anyone saying “WOW…Holly looks so different today.”  Haley knew the look I was going for.  I felt like Holly….but I felt like a bride.  She was superwoman that day.  She managed to do not just my hair, but also my niece’s and plenty of other people’s while she was at it.  She’s such a gem, and I am going to do everything I can to make her future big day….her best day ever.

   

   

   

   

   

   

   3.  Okay, back to the small family-only bridal party.  Wardrobe was undoubtedly going to cost something, but we weren’t about to go insane there either.  My husband was actually the one who suggested the “family only” bridal party, and admittedly, I was kind of glad he did.  It wound up taking a HUGE weight off my shoulders.  Just thinking of the bridal party part made me really anxious.  We both knew we were either the type to feel like we needed about eight people on each side of us, or to just use family.  There wasn’t an in between for us.  We couldn’t each pick just four friends.  Amazingly, all of my closest friends were very supportive of that and were a huge part of our day in other ways. My awesome friend Becky made a GORGEOUS flower girl dress for my niece Caylin.  My sister and older niece wore David’s Bridal dresses.  I wanted them to love their dresses.  I didn’t want them to feel forced to wear anything that felt too outside their box.  Haley and I quickly came to an agreement that hers didn’t have to be a typical wedding party dress.  I wanted her to love it and to actually want to wear it again someday.  The guys wore Men’s Warehouse tuxes (the ring bearer included).  Instead of bridal party photos, I took some special pictures with some of my dearest friends – almost like unofficial bridal party photos in a sense.   They wore what they felt most comfortable in, and their colors complimented our palette.  I had them come early and hang out!  Several of them sang throughout the day (and each sounded absolutely amazing).  Some have bridesmaids standing up beside them, but me?  Mine stood up there with microphones, because that’s how we roll  Kyle’s brother Jake was the best man, while my sister Haley was the maid of honor.  My niece Christina was Jr. Bridesmaid, while my niece Caylin was the flower girl and nephew Carson was the ring bearer.  It was simple and we liked it.

   

   

   4.   Pretty much anything the venue provided for me to use….I used it.  Why wouldn’t I? I didn’t need to rent linens.  I  used theirs.  Table runners?  I got cheap ones online from Efavor Mart.  Their tables and chairs were all good with me, and the already decorated country club helped a lot too.  I wasn’t dealing with a blank canvas, and I loved that fact.

5. We took pictures at both the country club and nearby at the Gorgeous Mitchell House Mansion (there in Lebanon, TN).  A majority of our first photos as a couple following the ceremony (no, we did not do a first look) took place at the mansion.  We also got some great family photos there!  The Mitchell House was another GORGEOUS middle TN venue.  I say “was” because sadly they are no longer booking weddings, but I will forever be grateful that we were able to take such special photos there.  Susan was so kind to open their doors to us that day, and I’ll never forget her kindness.  The natural country club setting was also perfect for sunset pictures.

6.   I got my wedding cake from Publix, and I’m dang proud of it!  It was beautiful, and probably tasted better than half of the high dollar stuff out there.  We went with a 3 tier buttercream cake and an extra sheet cake.  We had chocolate, white, white with raspberry filling AND strawberry.  My friend Jessica Barnett is an amazing cake decorator there. She did a wonderful job and everyone loved it!  Our florist brought some more gorgeous flowers which ended up being placed on the cake as well.

7.  For me personally, a DJ was always an absolute must!  I went with Rob Baughman of Groove Source Entertainment.  He did a great job on our ceremony as well as our reception.  He was very interactive and got people up and dancing.  A DJ honestly ends up with a huge responsibility on someone’s wedding day and Rob made ours fun and stress-free.  Once again, he was totally cool with guiding a rookie along. He was very affordable and took a huge weight off of our shoulders. Rob has since retired from DJ’ing, for more family time and because he has some other incredible career opportunities going on.

8.  So since we’re talking about the reception, let’s talk a little more about it, and what all went into it.  We chose the BBQ buffet route for dinner.  It was delicious, and I felt it would make everyone content.  I always tell bride-to-be’s, food doesn’t last forever….but photos and videos do!

9.  All of these photos you’re seeing?  We went with Kat Bradshaw Photography.  Kat and her husband Anthony worked our wedding day as a team to get all of the key shots of each of us.  While so many photographers today only want to do 6 hour days and charge a lot for anything further, Kat and Anthony was there from the beginning of the day until the end.  They were such great sports and made us feel peaceful and full of newlywed joy.  They are very reasonably priced and second to none.  We received thousands of photos and all of them were in black and white AND color.  As I go through these photos, I feel like I see something new every time.

10.  We were also COMPLETELY blessed with the videographer situation.  Kyle’s sweet cousin Tessa has a photography/videography business called Adelaide Street Media.  Thankfully, she was willing to do our wedding video, and she did a beautiful job.  She captured all the key moments and because of her, I can relive our day anytime I want to.  Just so you all know, she is also very affordable and second to none.  You will thank me for my referral later. You can view our wedding video here:  https://adelaidestreetmedia.com/film/

11.  My blessings didn’t end there though.  My mother-in-law works for Hatler’s Florist in Crossville, TN.  Hatler’s gave us incredible personalized attention and seriously put together the most beautiful bouquets and flower arrangements I ever dreamed possible. I KNOW I would not have gotten that kind of attention or guidance from any large Nashville florist.  Hatler’s was the absolute perfect situation, and they were very patient with all of my silly questions. Our colors were plum and charcoal gray.  I still gasp when I look at pictures of my bouquet.  I dried it out and kept it as potpourri which remains on display in our house.

12.  When it came to centerpieces, I borrowed at least half of my decorations.  I  borrowed globes and mirrors for my floating flowers.  Since we were slightly short in those available to us, my mother-in-law found me some awesome vintage vases to bring a variety to our centerpieces.  It brought a neat variety and made every table look slightly unique.  I then got some little lights, jewels and flower petals at Hobby Lobby to further amplify our look.  I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again, Hobby Lobby’s bridal stuff is 50% off frequently – you just need to watch their ad.

And while we’re at it here are some other reception pictures.  Included are some photos of my dad, father-in-law, brother and husband dancing to the YMCA together (yet another great idea DJ Rob had):

Other fun/somewhat unique things we did:

1.  I knew other than a traditional guestbook (which I’m also SO glad I still ended up doing), I wanted people to sign something fun that we could always keep.  I know most people now have their guests sign a big photo, which is super cool and a great keepsake.  I almost went that route, but then I decided on a guitar instead (it now sits on a stand by our fire place).  My dad painted an old antique guitar white for us….and voila!:  People signed their names and a little note with a sharpie.  The guitar was extra significant, because while neither Kyle or I are HUGE musicians, we both can play a little.  Not just that though:  An acoustic guitar is why I ultimately moved to Nashville for songwriting.  It was the love of country music and an acoustic guitar that made me pack up life when I was 20.  It was an acoustic guitar put behind my lyrics that made so many of dreams come true.  The acoustic guitar is what kept me here and kept me fighting for the dream….and why I ultimately eventually met Kyle.  It was only appropriate for us to incorporate a guitar.
2. To compliment the guitar, we had guitar pic favors:  Each pic had our photo and on the back read, “Kyle picked Holly.”  Call it cheesy if you like, but I LOVED these favors and would do it all over again.
3. We didn’t do the dollar dance, but we had a fun little “Honeymoon Fund” jar out (and yes, we enjoyed that extra cash on our honeymoon).
4. We also had a message in the bottle milk bottle out, where people could roll up a little note to us that we read one year from now.  Hey, there is still ONE thing I have to look forward to.  We will be reading those messages in a little less than a month from now.
5. Dad also made us an adorable “Ring the bell” for the bride and groom to sit out at our reception.
6. Instead of bubbles, sparklers, rice or something else, we did lavender:  I ordered the best grade of lavender online (priorities), and it STILL smells heavenly.  My sister and I placed all the lavender into gorgeous lace bags (thanks Hobby Lobby!), and I wrote a “lavender” poem that we put inside each bag.  Once we were pronounced husband and wife, it was the guest’s chance to toss lavender at us as we made our exit to our pictures.  I love lavender….did I mention that? The color was perfect for our color palette.  

7.  While I’m not sure it’s necessarily unique in 2018, we provided sunglasses for all of our guests – just plain, colorful fun shades that they could wear during the ceremony and maybe even enjoy wearing well beyond our wedding.  It made things fun, and I enjoyed seeing photos of our family and friends wearing our shades.  I ordered them in bulk from Amazon.

Here are some other highlights of our big day:

With our small bridal party, our reception entrance was pretty quick, but memorable.  Kyle wanted to walk in to Ric Flair’s song with “Shook Me All Night Long” following….so that is exactly what we did.  

Now, for the unexpected.  My dear friend Katie Hahn and I have been co-writing songs for the last several years.  I told her I wanted to surprise Kyle with an original song at our wedding reception.  Being the cool person she is, she was completely up for it.  I jotted down some lyrics, she brought her guitar and a song was born.  Together we penned, “Like Today Lasts Forever.”  I wanted a simple but sweet song to let Kyle know that my goal is to live life like our wedding day goes on forever.  Though we will face challenges (and we already have of course), this song is a reminder to him that we will get through whatever comes our way and always have this amazing day to look back on.  Kyle was not expecting this moment, and it meant the world to me.  Katie sang the song flawlessly, while her boyfriend, Nashville musician, Ian Hough accompanied her.

Later on in the reception, another very dear friend (Paul Jolley) took front and center to sing his AMAZING cover of Lonestar’s “Amazed.”  As I expected, this was another HUGE highlight.

What else were we traditional on?  Well, in my mind, the father/daughter and mother/son dance are VITAL. Kyle and his mom danced to The Band Perry’s “A Mother Like Mine,” while my dad and I danced to Tim McGraw’s “My Little Girl.”   

We also most definitely did the “cake cutting.”  Our song was “Pour some sugar on me.”  Those who know Kyle and I likely weren’t too surprised that we got into a bit of a cake fight.  I’m so not that bride that gets upset about that sort of thing.  In fact, at our sunset photos later, Kat informed me that I had frosting in my eyelashes.

And the bouquet/garter toss?  I guess a lot of people have quit doing that lately, but the traditionalist in me never ever considered x’ing it.  I’m pretty sure “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” was playing for the ladies and “Highway To the Danger Zone” was playing as Kyle crawled on the floor to the garter toss (that was hilarious and was caught on video).  My niece Christina caught the bouquet while his cousin Caine caught the garter (awww).

Other fun facts?

Something old:  My great-grandmother’s shoe clip.

Something new:  My dress.

Something borrowed:  My Mom’s pearl set

Something  blue:  “I Do” blue rhinestones on the bottom of my shoes.  

At the conclusion of our day, I found myself feeling so thankful.  The day I had always waited for had finally happened, and I knew I was going to have great memories of it for the rest of my life.  The next morning we drove 13 hours to Ft. Lauderdale to catch our cruise to Ocho Rios and Grand Cayman.

Now here we are almost a year later, and I’m still very thankful.  Was planning a wedding easy? Not at all.  Was it worth it?  Absolutely.

As stated earlier, part 1 is where I talked most about actual budgeting tips.  I encourage people to make their own when they can, to borrow when they can, to get creative and to not be afraid of clearances and “second hand.”  If you missed that blog, I would encourage you to check out that one too.

With that said, in part 3, I will conclude my long drawn out series and give you some local venue recommendations if you wish to have a “humble but beautiful wedding.”

The post Newsflash from a newlywed: A Humble And Beautiful Wedding IS Possible (Part 2) appeared first on Homestead Holly.

Now, I’m going to give it to you straight:  If you want any kind of a somewhat traditional wedding which may include wedding attire, flowers, decor, a photographer, a videographer, a reception with a DJ and food….we all know you’re not going to get by free.  Truth be told…you’re likely not even going to get by cheap, despite what you may think in your early planning stages. Now, of course if you have a family member or an extremely close friend that will do ALL of the above….your case may be different than most.  I don’t think that’s a likely scenario though.

However, here’s the thing:  You can get by cheaper.

You don’t have to fall among the statistical averages.  You don’t have to spend $30,000-$45,000 on your day, as apparently many are.  You really don’t even need to spend $20,000….unless that’s your desire of course.  If done right, you can spend well under $15,000….$10,000 or even $5,000.

It all depends on what your priorities are vs. what you can live without.  Everyone is different.  From the get-go, I had some very clear priorities.  Along the way, I learned how to “X” what I found to be unnecessary, but I also added a few small things I maybe hadn’t thought about prior.  I just knew I was determined to be reasonable……not ridiculous.

Can I give you some specifics of what I did in my next blog post?  Sure can.  In part 3, I can even suggest some reasonable area venues to you, but first things first:  I knew my dream wedding would never happen twice, so I wanted to make it a day to remember.  We all want a day to remember, right? Let’s get down to some basic pointers before we talk about my day or the area venues.

Budget Wedding Planning 101:

1. First of all, as I just mentioned up there, you need to figure out your priorities and your budget.  Ask yourself what matters to you most in the long run?  What has your perfect day always looked like?  Is dancing a must of yours?  (It always was of mine).  Do you want a lot of flowers, or are you happy with minimal?  Do you want indoor, outdoor, or are you open to either setting?  Is a environmentally flexible venue a priority? Do you HAVE to have a certain theme or venue, or could you be open to a venue or even a theme you maybe hadn’t even thought about before?  Do you really need 400 people there, or would you be happier with 40 (which is of course also way, way more frugal)?  Do you really need to rent outside linen, or can you be happy with the linen the venue is already offering you?  Do you really want to spend all your money on prime rib for everyone, or would you be happier in the long run using that money on quality photos?  If you’re more of a pulled pork kind of girl, don’t be afraid to go that route.  Food doesn’t last….photos do.  Just being honest guys.

   

2. Next, DO NOT be afraid to shop on Amazon, EBay and on various bargain websites for everything from brand new veils to any supply you can imagine.  While I didn’t look too hard, you may even be able to find some centerpiece stuff at Dollar Tree from what I’ve heard. I was also thrilled when I discovered eFavormart and Oriental Trading.  A lot of these websites even have additional savings by simply putting in a code. Also, ummm….if you don’t take advantage of Hobby Lobby’s 50% off sales, I’m not sure we can be friends.  It seems that every other week, ALL of their wedding supplies are 50% off.  They have pretty dang close to every wedding supply you could ever need.  Also, even good ole’ GoodWill or Salvation Army often has “like brand new” items that were likely used ONCE, if ever.  Are you really too good for that adorable $4 sign that would easily be $50 somewhere else?  It’s silly to pay full price, folks.  Also, is there anything you can borrow?  Do you really need to buy and keep ALL of your centerpiece floating flower bowls, or can you just borrow the ones being offered to you?  If you’re not looking for deals early on, the budget will quickly get out of control.  Mark my words.
3. Never secure a venue without a backup weather plan if you are looking towards an outdoor wedding.  Thankfully, the weather cooperated on our big day for a beautiful outdoor ceremony, BUT I had a plan B and C in case it didn’t.  Though I really really wanted the outdoor scene the whole time, I had the peace of mind in knowing that no matter what, I didn’t have to get drenched on my wedding day.  This was a plus plus, because up until my wedding day, the forecast was teasing rain (thankfully, it couldn’t have been more wrong).  Also, if you’re having a summer wedding and don’t want to be sweaty all day…… do not, I repeat do not, secure a pricey venue that has zero AC for your day!  This was a must for me.  My outdoor ceremony was short and sweet, we took some pics, and then I knew I was coming back to an AC’ed reception.  For me personally, this was needed for an August 19 wedding.  On the contrary, maybe you’re having an outside wedding on a super cold day.  If you’re anything like me, you’re going to at least want some kind of a heated reception area once you get through the ceremony.

   

4. Never just assume that a venue is “out of your price league.”  While researching venues, I came to find out that so many of the prettiest places were among the most reasonable, whereas the ones that weren’t that spectacular were pricey.  I’m sorry, but if you tell me I owe you thousands upfront and offer me almost zero perks….and I still need an outside caterer?  No thanks.  Never make assumptions no matter how extravagant something may look.  The true cost may pleasantly surprise you.  Don’t make the mistake of going for the top marketed or top advertisements.  Your perfect fit may be an underrated wedding venue that you may never know about without doing some digging or asking around.  Mine was just that!  I was having a random conversation with a friend from church, and I asked her thoughts on spots in the area.  That conversation led me to landing the perfect venue I otherwise wouldn’t have known about.
5. Be smart. If you know your budget is only $5,000….don’t book the venue that tells you it’s $5,000 just to rent the place without any perks.  I say $5,000 because that’s a very popular booking rate in the Nashville area right now.  If you spend $5,000…are you eliminating your dress, food, dancing, photography, videography, flowers and all decor in the process then?  Remember food alone can cost thousands.  Can you really afford to drop that much on simply booking the venue?
6. Tying all of the above together, cut corners when necessary.  If you find yourself going way over budget, ask yourself what you can eliminate.  Maybe your dream dress is going to cost almost double what you originally planned.  Unless you’re comfortable with this increased budget, ask yourself if you should now cut back on the guest list, find a more frugal catering option or get a smaller cake? (etc.)
7. Keep your focus, do your research, keep calm and stay polite in the process….and everything will run smoother.

In part 2, I will tell you about my day…..and how I managed everything.  Stay tuned..

The post Newsflash from a newlywed: A humble and beautiful wedding IS possible (Part 1) appeared first on Homestead Holly.