So, how do you save money on purchasing meat? Of course, meatless meals can help keep the budget in check, but don't feel you have to substitute at every meal. Here are some tips.

Think bone-in when shopping for meat

Purchasing meat with the bones still intact is usually much cheaper than buying their boneless counter parts. The extra work involved in removing the bones at the store is shown in the price. Plus, keeping those bones makes for some really good homemade stock.

Watch for sales and shop with coupons

Many stores and even big name meat brands supply coupons. To increase your savings, match a manufacturer coupon with a current sales ad. Significant savings means making more room in the freezer for those stock-up prices. Try purchasing only meat that is on sale.

Most grocery stores offer significant price reductions on meat that have a close sell by date

Savings can be as much as 65% or more. Don't be afraid to ask your butcher for marked down meats. Shopping earlier in the day for marked down meat will give you a wider selection then later in the afternoon (after all you are not the only one searching for those same deals). If you plan on purchasing meat that has been marked down and you don't plan on using it right away, I would recommend opening the package, checking it out and repackaging it for the freezer.

B-I-G-G-E-R is better

Bulk packaging or family-sized packages of meat usually cost less per pound than smaller packages. Buy one big package and divide into the portions you will need for your family and freeze.

Frozen meat (think tubes of ground chicken, turkey, and beef, etc.) can cost much less per pound

They are usually divided onto one-pound frozen packages which can be extremely convenient.

The leaner the meat, the more savings

Yes, leaner meat can cost you more up front, but once cooked you will have more meat on your plate and less fat in the pan. By purchasing less lean meat (80 percent lean ground beef); you are actually paying for more fat that will be cooked away later.

Search for end cuts found at the deli counter

End cuts are reduced priced versions of what is available behind the deli counter. They are literally the end pieces or cuts of sliced meats. Most stores have a specific area just for end cuts.

Seek another source

Find a good local famer that raises and sells his/her own meat. Cut out the middle man, go directly to the source. You may even benefit by getting better quality meat. The only down fall to this method is you will need a large enough space to freeze your savings.

The post How to save money when purchasing meat appeared first on FamilyToday.

Before you begin your endeavor, it is extremely beneficial to have a plan. Your plan should include a specific budget amount, theme, and food ideas. Once this BIG step is accomplished everything else will just fall into place.

1. Comparison Shop

 Give yourself enough time to shop around. Consider shopping online. Ordering directly from party suppliers will save you money by cutting out the middle man.

2. Shop at Discount Stores

 Local dollar stores can give you a jumpstart on items you may need. You can pick up paper plates, cups, plastic ware and even items to keep your smallest guest occupied. From bubbles to bouncing balls, kids can be affordably entertained. Stay away from specialty party supplies stores. Unless you are looking for something specific, you will often end up paying more for that item.

3. Shop with coupons

 If you have a long-term party idea in mind, search for deals or sales and stack them with a coupon for significant savings.

4. By store brand items

 No time for coupons? No worries. Buying store brand items instead of major name brands will help you stay within your budget. Plus, if you purchase these items and place them in your "fancy dollar store bowls," no one will ever know the difference.

5. Make your own food

 Purchasing prepared food from a caterer or local restaurant can be expensive. Making your own food can save you money, but can take up a lot of your time. Think freezer food, such as casseroles. Defrost the day before, bake it and voila!! Easy as pie"¦.Oh! You can freeze that, too!

6. Make your own decorations or use what you already have

 Use seasonal holiday lights by stringing them around your table umbrella or decking. This can really set the mood for an evening party. Consider using inexpensive mason jars, tea light candles, or decorated paper bags with tea light candles for path lighting. Repurpose old sheets into table cloths or turn old tee shirts into place mats. Your imagination has no limits.

7. Make your own party invitations

 Let your computer work for you. Personalized invitations don't have to be expensive. Most word processing software has free, ready-made designs, or you can search the Internet for free templates. It is surprising to discover how many websites offer free downloadable party invitations.

8. Consider using E-invites

 E-invites are accessible, low cost and can actually help you organize. Some sites will help you track your RSVP's. Also, consider using social networks. It's an efficient way to inform guests of the event or any last minute changes.

9. Fun is Free

 Entertaining your guests can be as easy as talking and simply enjoying each other's company amid a pleasant, welcoming atmosphere. Enjoy your time together.

The post 9 ways to throw a budget-friendly party appeared first on FamilyToday.