Plan Your Meals and Save 30%

Most of us are extremely busy and plan our meals on the fly. Wouldn’t you love to be able to save yourself time and money? Studies show that if you plan your meals ahead of time, you will save close to 30% on your grocery bill. Planning ahead eliminates impulse buys at the grocery store. As I created Emily’s Sample Monthly Meal Plan for you, I was watching a favorite TV show that I taped earlier in the week. It took me only 20 minutes to plan the meals and a little less than 5 minutes to compile a list of groceries that I didn’t have on hand. So, in a matter of 25 minutes, I planned a month’s worth of meals, watched a TV show, and enjoyed skimming two magazines which I can’t wait to READ. I hope you have the same success!! Happy Planning!!

Step 1: Download and Print Monthly Meal Planner — modify the dates each month
Step 2: Fill in your family events for the month (at least those you know about). This helps you to choose time-appropriate meals for the night.
Step 3: Optional – Survey your family for some ideas. I usually ask my husband to pick out 4 meals for the month from one of my cooking magazines or cookbooks.
Step 4: Fill in your meals. We leave at least 1 day per week for a meal out or unanticipated leftovers. This enables a little bit of flexibility, especially if you end up having to shift things about some.
Step 5: Check your kitchen for ingredients that you already have and compile a grocery list of items needed.
Step 6: Be Flexible. The planner is just that. We can’t anticipate bumps in the road.
Step 7: Enjoy your grocery bill and the time saved.

Kid-friendly tips: If your children know how to read, and you are comfortable letting them root through the fridge or pantry, Step 5 is a great way to have a treasure hunt in the kitchen. They can also help you put together the grocery list.