Get an Early Start on Halloween

We had a 90 degree day today– I don’t know about you, but 90 degree days do not get me thinking about Halloween! Nevertheless, it is right around the corner. I have already seen pumpkins that are ripe for the picking as I’ve driven out in the country. On a couple of hikes, I’ve noticed bright orange bittersweet growing in the woods. Whether you’re happy about it or not, summer is on her way out.

Pre-planning is almost always the ticket to living thrifty. When things sneak up on us–events, holidays, deadlines, meals–that’s when we begin the convenience spending. Here are just a few ideas that can keep Halloween from sneaking up on you.

When you’re out shopping, keep your eyes peeled for cheap candy. Candy doesn’t go bad for a very long time (Trust the girl who always hoarded her Easter candy). You can stock up whenever you find it on sale.
What else are you seeing that’s marked down these days? You can be on the look-out for items you need which are on sale; you can also plan your costumes, party food, and decorating based on what you just happen to find on clearance or at a yard sale.
Can you and/or your kids make up costumes from things you already have? My husband is the king of doing this. We always go to an annual costume party that happens around Halloween. He never knows what he’s going to dress up as until the night of the party. He will rummage around in the attic; get out some glue and markers; and one hour later he will have on the most outlandish, artistic costume of the night! I, on the other hand, always wear my wedding dress. Both approaches save a lot of money!

There’s nothing like decorating to get your family in a festive mood. As I mentioned before, pumpkins and bittersweet are already available. We’ll have to wait a few weeks for bright colored fall leaves, but maybe you can think of other cheap (or free!) decorative items to begin collecting immediately. Decorating for a season can be such a wonderful, memorable family event; be sure to involve everybody in the fun.