You are dissatisfied and bored with the look of your dining room. Sure it worked back in 1995, but today is different and you really want a change. However in today's economy things are a bit tight, so what do you do? Well there are a number of different ways for decorating a dining room to give it a whole new lease on life, without breaking the bank. Try these tips:
1.Why not cover the table with some fabric in order to hide any ugly surfaces? You could then use the colors in the fabric as the basis for the new décor for the room.
2.The use of inexpensive accessories will help to change the whole appearance of your dining room. Get some candles and candleholders in order to provide a different look and feel to your room.
3.Why not make a wall hanging for the room. If you can, purchase some Chinese posters (these are inexpensive) as they are easy to turn into wall hangings.
4.Why not see if where you live has a furniture bank. This is where you can arrange to drop off any old pieces of furniture that you have and no longer want. Then all you need to do is choose a piece from what they have there to replace the piece you have donated. You may find the ideal dining table and chairs that you want for the theme of your room.
5.The rule of three. Instead of placing items together as even numbered groups, do it in odd numbered groups instead. Where 2 candlesticks together look symmetrical, by adding a bowl or another smaller candlestick holder, you will give the element of surprise. Plus, by mixing colors and textures in order to form groups of three in a room, it will provide you with a whole new look also.
6.As previously mentioned, when looking to redecorate your living room, move the furniture. You can also do this in your dining room. Instead of the table being horizontal to the walls, why not place it in the room at an angle (but make sure you have enough space to walk round it). Also, move any cupboards etc., away from walls, and instead place these in corners of the room at angles. By doing this, you are giving your dining room a whole new look.
7.Why not build and attach a fold down shelf to one of your dining room walls? It will certainly make it easier for you when entertaining, and can be used as a buffet area also.
8.How about giving your dining room cabinets a new lease on life and paint them to accentuate the color of the room? Check at your local paint supply store or DIY store, as well as online for advice on how to paint unusual surfaces.
9.Use a mirror in order to create light and space in your dining room. Frame one in such a way that it creates a mock window. You could even use one by placing it behind some artistic belongings in order to highlight them from all sides.
10.If your dining room chairs are looking a little tired and dated, then cover them with slipcovers…why not try making some covers yourself? Why not purchase another tablecloth or two that matches the one you use for your table, and upholster them in this as well?
11.Finally, why not repaint the room? You do not need to do the whole room, just paint one or two walls with an accent color. Maybe go for a color which will accent all the various aspects of the room, and integrates well with any soft furnishings that you have.
Just because money is tight doesn't mean your style has to suffer. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Must Have Finance Tools and Resources
Want to save money while learning how to save money?
Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection.
Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?
For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources
http://www.renspubhouse.com/finance.html
******************************************************************
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Setting Priorities in a Family Budget
When economic downturns arise those who were smart enough to focus and set priorities in their family budgets had an easier time than those who didn't. Good times will return, and when they do, make sure you are one of the smart ones. Develop a family budget so that next downturn you will be ready and be able to weather the storm easier.
Often times, the family budget is a source of conflict. Most of the time, the major earner makes the final financial decision, which isn’t always a welcome deal for the rest. Since money is such an intrinsic part of family life, families need to achieve accord in this aspect. There is a four-step cycle in budgeting the family money to maintain peace and harmony.
1. Set your priorities.
Priorities are different from goals. They are aspects in your family’s life that you, as a family, want to set focus on, say health or children’s future. While goals are specific targets that support priorities.
In setting priorities, do not set too many as it defeats the purpose. Ideally, there should only be one, but because life is not ideal, 2 to 3 are reasonable.
As the priorities are set and agreed upon, write them down. Post the paper where everybody can see them to remind them of what your family is focused on for the next few years.
2. List down your goals.
Once the family has set and agreed on priorities, the next step is to set the goals. Goals are specific and measurable conditions that, when achieved, will support the priorities.
In setting goals, establish a target that is both challenging yet achievable. A 10-15% of the family’s income is a good savings target for a child’s future education: stretching yet reachable.
Try to limit your family into setting 1-2 goals per priority, to maintain focus.
3. Work towards your goals.
After setting your priorities and goals, start living by them. All of the family’s activities will be geared towards working at your goals. Track progress, particularly on financial goals, by using an income and expense-tracking tool. The simplest way is to get a notebook and list down all expenses and incomes and set a budget for future spending. There are those that invest in computer software or a family accountant. Whatever it is, the important thing is to have a system of monitoring the family’s performance towards achieving their goals.
4. Evaluate your family life.
At a certain point in time, when you feel like it’s time to evaluate your life, check how your family is doing against the goals. Goals that have been achieved can be checked off the list, and new ones can be formulated.
At times, in major changes, say a career move, or when a family member goes away, it may be time to re-evaluate priorities. When such a time comes, then the cycle begins, just like what it’s for: life!
Do you need more tips, help and direction in setting up and developing a budget? See below for a couple of handy tools. Come back next week for more tips, tricks and techniques to show you how to live the champagne life on a beer budget.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Must Have Finance Tools and Resources
Want to save money while learning how to save money?
Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection.
Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?
For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources
http://www.renspubhouse.com/finance.html
******************************************************************
Often times, the family budget is a source of conflict. Most of the time, the major earner makes the final financial decision, which isn’t always a welcome deal for the rest. Since money is such an intrinsic part of family life, families need to achieve accord in this aspect. There is a four-step cycle in budgeting the family money to maintain peace and harmony.
1. Set your priorities.
Priorities are different from goals. They are aspects in your family’s life that you, as a family, want to set focus on, say health or children’s future. While goals are specific targets that support priorities.
In setting priorities, do not set too many as it defeats the purpose. Ideally, there should only be one, but because life is not ideal, 2 to 3 are reasonable.
As the priorities are set and agreed upon, write them down. Post the paper where everybody can see them to remind them of what your family is focused on for the next few years.
2. List down your goals.
Once the family has set and agreed on priorities, the next step is to set the goals. Goals are specific and measurable conditions that, when achieved, will support the priorities.
In setting goals, establish a target that is both challenging yet achievable. A 10-15% of the family’s income is a good savings target for a child’s future education: stretching yet reachable.
Try to limit your family into setting 1-2 goals per priority, to maintain focus.
3. Work towards your goals.
After setting your priorities and goals, start living by them. All of the family’s activities will be geared towards working at your goals. Track progress, particularly on financial goals, by using an income and expense-tracking tool. The simplest way is to get a notebook and list down all expenses and incomes and set a budget for future spending. There are those that invest in computer software or a family accountant. Whatever it is, the important thing is to have a system of monitoring the family’s performance towards achieving their goals.
4. Evaluate your family life.
At a certain point in time, when you feel like it’s time to evaluate your life, check how your family is doing against the goals. Goals that have been achieved can be checked off the list, and new ones can be formulated.
At times, in major changes, say a career move, or when a family member goes away, it may be time to re-evaluate priorities. When such a time comes, then the cycle begins, just like what it’s for: life!
Do you need more tips, help and direction in setting up and developing a budget? See below for a couple of handy tools. Come back next week for more tips, tricks and techniques to show you how to live the champagne life on a beer budget.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Must Have Finance Tools and Resources
Want to save money while learning how to save money?
Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection.
Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?
For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources
http://www.renspubhouse.com/finance.html
******************************************************************
Monday, April 6, 2009
Traveling on A Budget
The vacation season is all but upon us and the family is itching to travel. Traveling is seen as a luxury that can be afforded only by some and necessitates saving over several months in order to get the holiday that you want. This does not have to be the case. With a bit of careful thought and a lot of planning, it really is possible to travel on a budget.
Of course, traveling on a budget means different things to different people. Some would consider a budget holiday to involve backpacking and camping. This type of holiday can be done on a budget relatively easily; the real skill arises when you are trying to get a ‘luxury’ holiday for a budget price.
Interestingly, paying more does not necessarily guarantee you a better holiday. Whenever you are on vacation, you will probably be surrounded by other families, some of which have paid more than you for the vacation and others which have paid significantly less.
You can be one of those who sits smugly by the others declaring the ‘cheap’ vacation that they have managed to secure. It’s easier than you think!
Planning is the key to success when it comes to getting a budget holiday. There are many things that you can influence such as when you book, how you travel, whether you go package or build your own agenda. All of these things can have a significant impact on the price you pay. Above all, each of these things are within your control!
Most people know exactly when they are intending to take a vacation. This can be used to your advantage when it comes to planning.
Deciding on when to book is a bit of a gamble. Whilst many tour operators will offer cheaper prices and early booking discounts, you may find that last minute deals are also available which will prove better financially.
There are many factors that you should take into account when deciding on when to book for maximum financial gain:
Are you flexible in terms of dates that you are prepared to travel?
Are you flexible in terms of destinations that you are prepared to travel to?
Will you be buying a package deal or will you be building your own package?
Are you considering a popular destination where many tour operators or flight companies travel?
If you are flexible in terms of location and dates then you will almost certainly benefit from waiting until the last minute to book your holiday. Last minute deals are, of course, something that you cannot rely upon and if you are set on going to a certain destination at a certain date then last minute is far too risky.
You don't need to have a fortune to enjoy traveling even in this economy. In fact many places are more than willing to make better deals now, so go ahead and plan it out and book that vacation now.
Come back next week for more tips, tricks and techniques for living the champagne life on a beer budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Must Have Finance Tools and Resources
Want to save money while learning how to save money?
Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection.
Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?
For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources
href="http://www.renspubhouse.com/finance.html">http://www.renspubhouse.com/finance.html
******************************************************************
Of course, traveling on a budget means different things to different people. Some would consider a budget holiday to involve backpacking and camping. This type of holiday can be done on a budget relatively easily; the real skill arises when you are trying to get a ‘luxury’ holiday for a budget price.
Interestingly, paying more does not necessarily guarantee you a better holiday. Whenever you are on vacation, you will probably be surrounded by other families, some of which have paid more than you for the vacation and others which have paid significantly less.
You can be one of those who sits smugly by the others declaring the ‘cheap’ vacation that they have managed to secure. It’s easier than you think!
Planning is the key to success when it comes to getting a budget holiday. There are many things that you can influence such as when you book, how you travel, whether you go package or build your own agenda. All of these things can have a significant impact on the price you pay. Above all, each of these things are within your control!
Most people know exactly when they are intending to take a vacation. This can be used to your advantage when it comes to planning.
Deciding on when to book is a bit of a gamble. Whilst many tour operators will offer cheaper prices and early booking discounts, you may find that last minute deals are also available which will prove better financially.
There are many factors that you should take into account when deciding on when to book for maximum financial gain:
Are you flexible in terms of dates that you are prepared to travel?
Are you flexible in terms of destinations that you are prepared to travel to?
Will you be buying a package deal or will you be building your own package?
Are you considering a popular destination where many tour operators or flight companies travel?
If you are flexible in terms of location and dates then you will almost certainly benefit from waiting until the last minute to book your holiday. Last minute deals are, of course, something that you cannot rely upon and if you are set on going to a certain destination at a certain date then last minute is far too risky.
You don't need to have a fortune to enjoy traveling even in this economy. In fact many places are more than willing to make better deals now, so go ahead and plan it out and book that vacation now.
Come back next week for more tips, tricks and techniques for living the champagne life on a beer budget. Remember we're all in this together and I'm pulling for you.
Mahalo.
******************************************************************
Must Have Finance Tools and Resources
Want to save money while learning how to save money?
Well Order the Budget Mega Pack and receive two valuable bonus ebooks for your collection.
Hey, you earned it, why not keep it?
For more info and to Order Today so you can save On These Valuable Resources
href="http://www.renspubhouse.com/finance.html">http://www.renspubhouse.com/finance.html
******************************************************************
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