GirlsGuideTo | How to Live Fabulously on a Budget

It’s no secret that a lot of us are trying to live on a shoestring budget. And all that being frugal can really wear a girl out. While it’s great to be responsible with your money, you’ve got to live a little too. Here’s how to live a luxe life on a budget!

At Home:

Decorate on the Cheap
Ok, so your hand-me-down furniture isn’t your favorite, but you can dress it up with inexpensive items like pillows, coffee table books, and plants. They don’t cost a lot, but they make the most impact for the least amount of money. And you know you only have to hit up Pinterest for some great DIY projects that will personalize your space.

Throw a Brunch

Why do we always talk about hosting brunches here on GGTo? Because brunches are an elegant way to throw a party without spending a ton of money. Whip up a frittata (a dozen eggs is seriously cheap), serve some granola cups on the side, and top it off with Pomosas made with inexpensive (as in less than $10) bottles of sparkling wine. You look like a classy host without spending like it.

Be Smart About How You Shop

Just because you want to tighten your pursestrings doesn’t mean you have to give up that magic conditioner that costs a fortune at the salon but is the only one that works! Just be smart about how and where you buy it. Do some research online and find the best deals. Just remember: If you spring for the expensive option, you only get that one option. No more “trying something” new when you’re wandering the aisles of Target. Pick one shampoo, one body wash, one foundation, one concealer, etc. and use it until it’s gone. Variety may be the spice of life, but it’s also your wallet’s kryptonite.

Eat the Specials

Did you know that grocery stores usually run their weekly promos from Monday to the next Sunday? And did you know you can get those promos delivered to your inbox? Meal planning is absolutely no fun, but if you shop each week and plan meals by the sales, you can cook fancier foods like salmon and steak without going over your grocery bill.

Think Outside the Bottle

Some days you just need a glass or two of wine. It’s ok, it happens to us all. Channel your inner-grandma and pick up a boxed wine. Not only is it so much cheaper, but the quality has risen with its popularity AND the bag/spout are really good for keeping air out, which means your wine will last longer.

Out and About:

Use Your Rewards

I know they’re annoying, but those rewards loyalty programs can really save you money. Look for the ones that are free to join and not joined to a credit card. You don’t need any more reason to build up credit card debt. And remember, these aren’t just at retail stores anymore. Ask about programs at places like restaurants and movie theaters!

Split It
Split your meal. Split a bottle of wine. Split snacks at the movie. Split personal training sessions. If you know it can be negotiated, split costs of whatever you can with a friend.

Score a Discounted Spa Treatment

These days, the money-conscious (as in, everyone) aren’t exactly indulging in personal pampering. So to get customers into the spas and salons, tons of Websites list special discounts all over the country. That means getting the perfect pedi or the deep tissue massage you desperately need is now affordable. Just go to a discount spa Website (try Lifebooker.com, SpaFinder.com, or Spavelous.com) and type in your zip code to find what offers are available in your area. Then, call to make an appointment and mention the site.

Indulge your Inner Jet-Setter
A-list celebrities aren’t the only ones who can take off for the weekend at the drop of a hat. Surf to site59.com and lastminutevacations.com to see what enticing destinations are on sale right now. For the best prices, also consider taking your jaunts during the shoulder season, the time right before or right after the high season. Frequent-flier miles are getting less and less valuable every year, so use them up. If you don’t have enough to get airfare, use them for your hotel or rental car. Then stuff a chic little black dress and an iPod in a bag...and the fab life will be all yours.

How do you live well on a budget? The girls of GirlsGuideTo...TV talk about their budget secret weapon -- DIY -- with sepcial guest GlitterNGlue's Kristen Turner on this week's episode! Be sure to check it out below and subscribe to our YouTube channelso you don't miss any of the upcoming fun!