Real financial wellness tips given by real people

New Year’s challenge: financial and overall health goals

As we step into another new year, it’s the perfect time to set the stage for personal growth, particularly in the realms of financial and overall wellness with a New Year’s challenge. By committing to a series of monthly challenges, you can create positive habits and transform your life. Here’s a comprehensive guide on ways …

How to budget for kids’ sports

Playing sports offers kids numerous benefits, from promoting physical fitness to teaching teamwork and discipline. But participation in organized sports is expensive and can strain the family budget if you don’t manage it carefully. In this guide, we’ll explore effective strategies to create a budget for kids’ sports, making sure your young athletes can enjoy …

Date night: 10 affordable ideas

Anyone who says date nights need to be extravagant to be enjoyable has been watching too many The Bachelor episodes. You actually don’t need to have a helicopter standing by to plan a memorable evening for you and your boo. Here are some ideas for fun and romantic dates that won’t cost a fortune. 1. …

529 plan: what is it and how does it work?

If you have children—even young ones—you’re probably already thinking about saving for their college education. One popular and tax-advantaged way to start building a college fund is through a 529 plan. That’s a specialized savings account designed to help families save for educational expenses, from K-12 to college and beyond. Here are some of the …

Budget challenge: save money on everyday things

We’re all so busy every day that it’s easy to overlook the small, everyday expenses that can add up fast. The minor purchases can have a big impact on our budget over time. That’s why (drumroll, please)… you need a budget challenge! A budget challenge is a fun and motivating way to save money on …

Best tropical family vacation on a budget

Dreaming of a tropical family vacation, but worried you can’t afford it?  The typical recommended budget for a family vacation is about $58 per person for food alone. The average cost of a hotel room is about $250. From there, you’ll want to plan for the costs of things like activities (theme parks, museums, other …

Healthy snacks for kids: fun and affordable ideas

Making sure your child has nutritious snacks is an important part of supporting their growth and development. Healthy snacks provide the energy they need to stay active and contribute to their overall well-being. With childhood obesity and related health issues on the rise, making informed choices about the snacks your child consumes is crucial. Here’s …

A braces budget: planning for kids’ orthodontics costs

Orthodontic care, often associated with braces, plays an important role in correcting dental issues and ensuring your child’s oral health. But orthodontic work can be very costly. It’s important to plan for the costs of your child’s orthodontics so you can manage them effectively. Here’s a guide to creating a braces budget and navigating the …

New Year’s resolutions for financial health & wellness

As we approach the dawn of a new year, it’s an opportune moment to reflect on our financial habits and set resolutions that pave the way for a healthier, wealthier future. New Year’s resolutions for financial health and wellness can be transformative, providing a roadmap to achieve financial goals and cultivate lasting habits. Let’s explore …

Holiday traditions: the quirkiest around the world

As the holiday season approaches, various cultures worldwide embrace unique and often quirky holiday traditions that add a touch of charm and eccentricity to the celebrations. From ancient customs to modern celebrations, these traditions reflect the diverse ways in which people express joy and create lasting memories. Let’s take a journey around the globe to …

How to make an affordable holiday meal

The holiday season is synonymous with festive feasts and shared meals, but the thought of creating a memorable spread can feel daunting, especially if you’re on a budget. But with a little thoughtful planning, strategic shopping, and a touch of creativity, it’s totally possible to prepare a delicious and affordable holiday meal. 1. Plan your …

Last-minute holiday gift guide

The holiday season is almost here (how is it that time already?), finding the perfect gifts for the people on your list can be tough, especially if your time and budget are tight. But there are a lot of thoughtful and affordable presents that can save you, even if you’re down to the wire. Our …