Nothing is more fun than treating Mom to a lovely meal for Mother’s Day. After all, she deserves to get all dressed up and have someone do the cooking and clean up for her for once. But what if this Mother’s Day, you find yourself on a budget? But no worries, that doesn’t mean you need to take mom to a fast food drive thru or greasy spoon! Instead, take a look at the tips below for treating your Mom to a Mother’s Day meal for less.
Dining out with Mom can be fun, frugal, and still enjoyable. Just take a peek at the tips below and see how easy it is to enjoy a Mother’s Day meal for a whole lot less!
Mother’s Day Meal Ideas for Less:
1. Host cocktail and appetizer hour at home.
Make arrangements to meet at your home prior to dinner. While fancy drinks are fun, you can save by offering cocktails at your home instead. A simple bottle of wine can run you less than $10, the cost of one glass of wine at most restaurant bars. You can even add a simple appetizer such as cheese and crackers, eliminating the cost of a $10-$15 appetizer at the restaurant. You don’t have to opt for just cocktails either. Soda waters dressed up with fruit or even soft drinks are still a great way to unwind and refresh before you head out!
2. Do your homework.
Research the menu before you dine. Doing your homework is vital and luckily, most restaurants have their menus available for viewing online. This will help you pick a place that is well in your budget. If Mom prefers a place that is a bit pricey, you can always view the menu ahead of time to find more reasonable entree choices when you arrive. You can also make note of entree sizes so you can be well prepared as to what to order. The menu will also note any additional charges that the restaurant might charge, such as plate sharing fees or additional gratuity for larger parties. Plus, keep your eyes peeled because websites may also display any printable coupons that are available to print an take with you! There is nothing wrong with using money saving coupons, even on Mother’s Day!
3. Opt for an early dinner.
Early birds get discounts. Period. Some restaurants offer discounts to patrons before 6 p.m., or on certain slower nights of the week. Keep an eye out for these promotions and plan your trips accordingly. Ask your favorite restaurants when these special promotions run, you may not even realize they are offering them. By arriving just an hour earlier, you can save as much as 25% off your bill or be entitled to cheaper drinks or appetizers.
4. Pair and Share
Some eateries use plates the size of platters. And because of this, you often get way more food than you can eat. Instead, pay attention to portion sizes. Chances are, you will be served more than you are able to eat, especially in an eatery where freebies are added to the meal such as bread or salads. So this Mother’s Day, share an entree with someone! Some places impose a plate sharing fee, so be sure you know this detail before you order. Sharing an entree can easily split your bill in half.
5. Pass on pricey beverages.
Sodas and juices can average $3 for a glass. And so, beverages can quickly make your dinner bill add up. Save a few dollars and opt for ice cold water instead. Servers are happy to bring you a dish of fresh cut lemon to add to it at no additional cost. Not only is this substitution better for your budget but it is better for your health. Even if just you and a spouse opt for water instead of a soda, you can save as much as $7.00 off your bill.
As you can see, there are quite a few simple tips and tricks to help stretch your Mother’s Day meal budget. You don’t have to feel skimpy or avoid a nice eatery this Mother’s Day, instead just pick a few of these tips to follow and easily save a few dollars off your bill.
Remember, for each dollar you save you are also saving on having to pay tax and additional gratuity for that item. So be mindful of your spending and know that each little tip can really add up!
Mom is sure to enjoy a nice dinner out for Mother’s Day. This year, go out with out going all out. Enjoy a Mother’s Day meal on a budget and still enjoy some wonderful, quality time together!
Make sure you check out our Saving Money Blog and also our How to Coupon Page for more tips, tricks and videos on saving money and using coupons.
Make sure you Follow Me on Pinterest!
Thank you so much for sharing this neat website.