Buy One or Two Holiday Foods Each Week Ahead to Cut Dinner Costs and Stress A holiday dinner can turn one grocery trip into a long, costly dash through crowded aisles. Buying one or two holiday foods each week ahead spreads the cost over several shopping trips and gives you more time to find what you need. The key is to plan the menu first, then choose foods that can be stored safely until dinner. These tips can help you set a budget, avoid duplicate buys, and leave less shopping for the final week. Spread Holiday Dinner Costs Across Several Weeks Set a dinner budget before you shop Choose a spending limit for the meal before you start buying ingredients. List the dishes you plan to serve, then estimate the cost of the main ingredients. Your estimates don’t need to be exact; they give you a useful target and help you spot dishes that may push the total too high. Divide the list into weekly purchases Break the shopping list into small weekly steps. Aim for one or two items each tr...
Join Gin Lee, the Deep South Cook, as she guides you through the art of creating authentic Southern cuisine. From traditional dishes to decadent desserts like cakes, cookies, and pies, Gin Lee will teach you the secrets of candy making and holiday-themed recipes. And because pets are family too, she'll even share some special recipes for your furry friends. But the culinary journey doesn't stop there. Gin Lee will also delve into the world of gardening, offering helpful gardening tips too.