by Stefanie Plum, Gather Partner Team
Member since:
February 19, 2008

How Do You Live Fabulously Frugally? Live Chat Tonight @ 9PM ET. Win Gather Points ™!

January 19, 2009 05:32 PM EST (Updated: March 03, 2009 12:14 PM EST)
views: 247 | comments: 260

In today's economy, it's difficult to spend money on yourself, especially when you have bills and a family to put first. However, it's still important to be pampered so you can still feel fabulous about yourself.

But how do live fabulously in a frugal way? One thing that makes me feel fabulous is to give myself a manicure. It's a great confidence booster, plus I only have to spend $3 or $4 on new nail polish!

Join a live chat tonight from 9-10PM ET to share tips on how you focus on yourself while on a budget. The chat will take place in the comment field below. Be sure to refresh your internet browser to see new comments posted. Gather will draw three participants from the live chat to receive 200 Gather Points ™ each.


Share more tips in the Living Fabulously group.
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Comments: 260

Teresa A. Jan 19, 2009, 5:36pm EST
Very cool
Peter Joseph Swanson Jan 19, 2009, 5:37pm EST
I won't be there, then - so let me just tell you all now because it's very important:


BOXED WINE !!!
Dagmara H. Jan 19, 2009, 5:41pm EST
this sounds great. Even if I have a wedding anniversary I will try to be here
I'll not make the chat......I'm already exhausted from being super frugal today and shopping.....I just have to be fabulously asleep.
Jill~Sexy Back~ V. Jan 19, 2009, 5:43pm EST
I don't pay full price for anything. I shop around, stalk clearance sales, clip coupons, and google "coupon codes" for whatever retail I'm shopping. Just recently, I got my son a Fisher Price Smart Cycle (it's a video game that has a bike attached to it and you pedal your way through the game. He's wanted it forever and it's regular priced at $99. Well, the cheap old frugal me waited for it to go on clearance and sure enough I got it for only $49! That will be his favorite gift at his birthday party for sure!
j - Frugal Mom - r. Jan 19, 2009, 5:43pm EST
It sounds like a great chat
J. P. Jan 19, 2009, 5:43pm EST
Oh no.....24 is playing tonight!!!!
J. P. Jan 19, 2009, 5:44pm EST
NBC Frugallity: put Leno earlier and save big $$$ :^)
But just for the record, I purchased a large container of wonderful frozen cream puffs that I'll drizzle with dark chocolate syrup and have tonight as I watch TV (how luxurious is that?) and sip a glass of (frugal) Carlo rossi sangria (about $13. a gallon).
☆ ƒåitĥ ☆ Jan 19, 2009, 5:48pm EST
Yay, what a fun chat!
☆ ƒåitĥ ☆ Jan 19, 2009, 5:48pm EST
I'm giggling after reading Peter's wine comment.
☆ ƒåitĥ ☆ Jan 19, 2009, 5:50pm EST
One way I remain super frugal but still get a little luxury in my life is to subscribe to FREE magazines. I know that may sound lame but I don't get much 'me' time and when I do I like to veg out by reading a magazine. Celebrity gossip magazines are my favorite but I also like parenting, womens issues, family, music or home publications.

If anyone wants to get free magazines please go check out my spotlighted section... you'll find a ton of publications that you can get for free and you too can get a little luxury while remaining frugal!!!
Ashley Prince Jan 19, 2009, 5:51pm EST
I'll try to remember! :)
Nancy Biri Jan 19, 2009, 5:52pm EST
I won't be able to be here tonight.

how do live fabulously in a frugal way?

After all the bills are paid and if we have extra money my husband would have a day out. Seeing a movie and dinner
Mariana T. Jan 19, 2009, 6:05pm EST
I've lived frugal most of my life because I think we should all live below our means. It's a fabulous way to live and makes one appreciate simplicity. Oh, I've done my share of enjoying southern California life in big style but it's been by being invited to friend's parties who rent limos and that kind of thing - myself - I live fabulously by taking long baths using herbs from my garden or Epsom salts -
I have a special sunchair where I can sit and drink lemon water out of a fancy glass.
I can walk on the beach for free.
I hit the great thrift stores and look for bargains.
More later. I'll try to make it tonight! Salud
tammie p. Jan 19, 2009, 6:19pm EST
sorry i can't make it. thank you for the info
Sophie S. Jan 19, 2009, 6:43pm EST
Oh cool, I love getting new ideas about this kind of stuff.

One thing I do is make all my own facial scrubs and foot soaks. That way I can decide what is in them and have them exactly the way I like...and they are super cheap and easy to do.

If anyone wants a couple recipes/directions let me know or if you have any of your own to share I love trying new things (looking for some good balm recipes too).
Renita P. Jan 19, 2009, 6:59pm EST
I can't be here for the chat, but one of my best frugal tips is to combine coupons with sales when grocery shopping. I have several frugal tips posted in my posts but they are a ways back.
Claudia B. Jan 19, 2009, 7:00pm EST
I hope I could make it..to pick up some pointers.
babsie wabsie Jan 19, 2009, 7:49pm EST
wish i could be there for the live chat but i have to be up at 5AM
☀ Aunt Shanny Jan 19, 2009, 8:13pm EST
I splurge every couple of months on department store make up (foundation, powder, bronzers), and once or twice a year I buy a few new outfits.

Speaking of that, I think Shanny needs some new shoes!
Patricia G. Jan 19, 2009, 8:47pm EST
I think it comes down to being determined about what you want out of life and having fun trying to figure out how to get it--if you're patient enough and savvy enough you can have a really good lifestyle for less money than someone who doesn't put any thought into how they spend. It also should get easier and easier over time.

The cool thing about Gather and similar sites is you can at least occasionally designate a gift card just to treat yourself outside the money you make from your job or business.

I'm going to hang around and mostly read during the chat. I may not comment again until the end, but I'm here.
JoAnne D. Jan 19, 2009, 8:50pm EST
Since I have more time on my hands than money these days, I do a lot of thingd in front of the tv. Manicures, foot baths and pedicures, even scalp reatments. (for dry scalp). It is so relaxing and unpressured. and like you say the nail polish is only a couple of dollars.
Karen R. Jan 19, 2009, 9:04pm EST
Is it time to chat yet?
Laura C. Jan 19, 2009, 9:06pm EST
I don't have a choice but to live in a frugal way being on disability. I don't think I live fabulously though...but i'd like to
Karen R. Jan 19, 2009, 9:07pm EST
Hi Laura, where is everyone?
Laura C. Jan 19, 2009, 9:08pm EST
i'm not sure.....I clicked the link from my email, so I think we're in the right place..
Shirah P. Jan 19, 2009, 9:09pm EST
*wonders if its happening*
Karen R. Jan 19, 2009, 9:09pm EST
I have checked it 3 or 4 times too.
Karen R. Jan 19, 2009, 9:10pm EST
shouldn't there be a moderator?
Shirah P. Jan 19, 2009, 9:10pm EST
Well then, how do you live frugally, Laura and Karen?
Laura C. Jan 19, 2009, 9:10pm EST
and i'm back to check too...
Karen R. Jan 19, 2009, 9:10pm EST
Guess we will have to have our own chat.....lol.
JoAnne D. Jan 19, 2009, 9:11pm EST
Hi, I'm trying to think of other ways to pamper your self on a budget.
Laura C. Jan 19, 2009, 9:11pm EST
lots of dollar store finds for me. bubble baths and salts I find there make it so I can afford my biggest indulgence...bubble baths
Shirah P. Jan 19, 2009, 9:11pm EST
Not that I'm a moderator or anything, just thought to get the conversation going
Karen R. Jan 19, 2009, 9:11pm EST
I use coupons for groceries, fast food and places like Borders.
Shirah P. Jan 19, 2009, 9:11pm EST
dollar store finds are awesome, unfortunately for me, my skin is really sensitive so I have to get the better stuff.
Karen R. Jan 19, 2009, 9:11pm EST
I love the dollar stores, too.
JoAnne D. Jan 19, 2009, 9:12pm EST
I guess we are the chat, How is everyone tonight?
Laura C. Jan 19, 2009, 9:12pm EST
I buy a scented conditioner for about a dollar at wal-mart, then when i'm soaking in the soap I deep condition my hair too...I make sure it's a compatible scent though.
Laura C. Jan 19, 2009, 9:12pm EST
I have sensitive skin too, so it's trial and error...but alot of times they do get name brand things too.
Karen R. Jan 19, 2009, 9:12pm EST
I do have to use more expensive lotions, too, but I only get them when I have a coupon.
Marilyn M. Jan 19, 2009, 9:13pm EST
I used to spend a ton on books every month and have quite a library. Now I go to the library.
Shirah P. Jan 19, 2009, 9:13pm EST
I love music. Every month I spend $10 on something from iTunes for new music, it feels like a wonderful new present I can listen to all the time :)
JoAnne D. Jan 19, 2009, 9:13pm EST
I shop alot at ther dollar store, one day the lady asked me if I was impulse buyer.
Shirah P. Jan 19, 2009, 9:13pm EST
Yes, I love the library because they have DVDS there too and I can borrow them and watch movies for free :)
Marilyn M. Jan 19, 2009, 9:14pm EST
Dollar stores - yes! I discovered dollar stores when my son was a teen and needed a particular brand of acne scrub. It was half as much at the dollar store than in other stores. Same brand.
Karen R. Jan 19, 2009, 9:14pm EST
I took a 20 percent off coupon and a $3.50 off $10 to Ulta a few days ago and they actually let me use both of them on my purchase that was less than $20.00.
JoAnne D. Jan 19, 2009, 9:14pm EST
I did have a few things not on my list. I thought it was funny.
Shirah P. Jan 19, 2009, 9:14pm EST
I have found that I can use store brand stuff for my lotions and it's better. AKA.. I love Aveeno for my skin, but the Price Chopper/ Hannaford/ CVS brand is essentially the same and SO MUCH cheaper
Dagmara H. Jan 19, 2009, 9:14pm EST
Hi everyone, it seems I make it too
Laura C. Jan 19, 2009, 9:15pm EST
I love candles, especially food scented ones like vanilla....makes my whole place smell great..good think about a small apartment is one or two votives work for the whole area
Jan S. Jan 19, 2009, 9:15pm EST
I make my own body butter and bath salts for a tiny fraction of retail cost.
Nellie (The Bad Santa of Gather) Jan 19, 2009, 9:15pm EST
Every weekend I do a quality time for me. I lock myself in the bathroom with a good book, turn on the hot water to get a nice fog effect going, sit in my undies and get a "free sauna", after the "sauna", I then do a full body exfoliation, and then put on my silky pjs. Then from there I put on a face mask, read my book while I wait, soft music is on in the background. After rinsing my face, I go put the hot water bottle in my bed so sheets get all cozy, and then climb into bed.....
Marilyn M. Jan 19, 2009, 9:16pm EST
If I HAVE to buy a book, I made a cool discovery. If you buy a best seller from some of the airport news/bookstores, you can bring it back and they'll pay you half price for the book. Cash.
Karen R. Jan 19, 2009, 9:16pm EST
I love to read romances and buy them used at garage sales and used book stores.
Laura C. Jan 19, 2009, 9:16pm EST
I need to start giving myself manicures and/or pedicures though...my nails are a MESS. I bet that would make me bee personally spolied!
JoAnne D. Jan 19, 2009, 9:16pm EST
Great deal Karen. I am surprised they took more than one coupon for an item.
Shirah P. Jan 19, 2009, 9:16pm EST
do you have a recipe for that you'd like to share, Jan? I'd love it. :)
Marilyn M. Jan 19, 2009, 9:16pm EST
I use lots of coupons now - more than ever. But I cannot find many places that will allow computer printed coupons.
Rick *Don Rico* J. Jan 19, 2009, 9:16pm EST
So, where's the hostess?
Jan S. Jan 19, 2009, 9:17pm EST
I have a week long dinner plan for frugal eating. It begins with pot roast for two days, then I take out most of the juice and freeze it for future soup. I cut up the meat and veggies and make the roast into beef stew. That goes for a couple of days, then out comes the juice and new veggies and we've got vegetable soup.
Dagmara H. Jan 19, 2009, 9:17pm EST
I like dollar store too, specially for the things like paper towels and so
Laura C. Jan 19, 2009, 9:18pm EST
I love my baths, and I put on music....light my candles....grab a romance novel I bought used or cheap someplace....have my hair pulled up being conditioned....it's awesome....sometimes I have a glass of wine, not always, two many weight watcher points lol...sometimes it's just carbonated water or diet something....but I feel so wonderful after...then it's lotion time!
Dagmara H. Jan 19, 2009, 9:18pm EST
That is great idea Jan. You can really make the facial mask and exfoliators really cheap at home
Laura C. Jan 19, 2009, 9:18pm EST
I don't think there is a hostess Rick....I reread the post, and I think it just says chat....
Rick *Don Rico* J. Jan 19, 2009, 9:19pm EST
Wow! Sounds like you're kickin' frugal butt, Jan!
Jan S. Jan 19, 2009, 9:19pm EST
Sometimes, I put the meat and veggies over rice or noodles just for a change. Very inexpensive menus and delicious, nutritious food.
Karen R. Jan 19, 2009, 9:19pm EST
We save money too by belonging to Blockbusters video club. We get a lot of rentals free that way.
Laura C. Jan 19, 2009, 9:19pm EST
I have some free olay samples that i've been using for my face...my face is so soft! wish I could afford it in regular size! i'm trying to spoil myself a lot this year...I turn 40 in October, and i'm trying to hit it feeling better than ever!
Dagmara H. Jan 19, 2009, 9:20pm EST
That is a great idea Karen. I have never been at garage sale, but I used to find really cheap books at this one website, that no more exist. But now we usually borrow the books between the friends
Jan S. Jan 19, 2009, 9:20pm EST
Got to have some music to go with those candlelight baths, Laura!
Lesli B. Jan 19, 2009, 9:20pm EST
I love coupons, I've taken to getting them from ebay
Shirah P. Jan 19, 2009, 9:20pm EST
I agree with you Laura C, except for romance novels it will be epic high fantasy novels. :) Or something like that.
Laura C. Jan 19, 2009, 9:20pm EST
as far as food I do my best to be frugal...I live alone so it's not quite as rough on me as it is on families....lots of frozen stuff.
Dagmara H. Jan 19, 2009, 9:20pm EST
Karen, there is even better way. You can join erewards and you can get free coupons from them
Jan S. Jan 19, 2009, 9:21pm EST
Laura, you can buy Olay Daily Regenerist Serum cheap on ebay. I do and I love it, too.
Lesli B. Jan 19, 2009, 9:21pm EST
Garage sales are awesome dagmara
Laura C. Jan 19, 2009, 9:21pm EST
it's not always romance...i'm a zombie freak and next bath I have a zombie novel i'm gonna read lol.....
Karen R. Jan 19, 2009, 9:21pm EST
Sounds good Jan. I like to boil chicken breasts and use the broth and some of the meat for making soup and chop up the rest for chicken salad or other uses.
Laura C. Jan 19, 2009, 9:21pm EST
I can't do ebay or I would...paypal issues...but that's a great idea thank you!
Lesli B. Jan 19, 2009, 9:22pm EST
How cheap jan?
Nellie (The Bad Santa of Gather) Jan 19, 2009, 9:22pm EST
another I pamper myself, is I do a beer conditioner with egg. This came right from my hairdresser. When I was working, I was spending a 100 dollars for my conditioner and blow out, after losing my job, she tolld me the was to get the same results was to take a can of beer, one egg mix together, warm it up a little bit (the beer that is, not the egg, that is room temp.), put into hair, put a plastic cap on, let it sit for half hour, rinse well with warm water, put big curlers in hair, use blow dryer, and I get the same results. I do it once a month, and tah dah it works..cost about 40 cents for the beer (hubby already has in it in frg anyhoot...and less than a penny for the egg)
Marsha S. Jan 19, 2009, 9:22pm EST
hi everyone, sorry I am late
Shirah P. Jan 19, 2009, 9:22pm EST
I also watch Hulu.com for movies and save on cable because I watch them all streaming online.
Dagmara H. Jan 19, 2009, 9:22pm EST
I think food is one of the most important thing where you can save a lot. Specially when you cook at home, you can save a lot of money. I sually buy the meat and wholesale stores and devide it at home and put to the ziplock bags. I save a lot of money that way and don't need to go shop for a while
Laura C. Jan 19, 2009, 9:22pm EST
I would love to get the olay that has foundation in it too....I look at it every time I go to that section in walmart lol
Jan S. Jan 19, 2009, 9:22pm EST
I was taught to be thrifty - "Use it up, wear it out, make it do, do without." By doing without in some areas, we can splurge in others.
Karen R. Jan 19, 2009, 9:22pm EST
Its always romance for me....lol.
Ariel Storm Jan 19, 2009, 9:23pm EST
Laura its real cheap to make your own bath salts, bath bombs and all those little luxuries. They can make a bath feel even more luxurious than a bubble bath :)
Dagmara H. Jan 19, 2009, 9:23pm EST
Lesli, I will have to go to one. Or maybe visit a trift store?
Laura C. Jan 19, 2009, 9:23pm EST
Hi Marsha!
Marsha S. Jan 19, 2009, 9:23pm EST
well, I don't do a thing to pamper myself
Shirah P. Jan 19, 2009, 9:23pm EST
*watch all the TV episodes online
Jan S. Jan 19, 2009, 9:23pm EST
I've bought two of the 3.4 oz. bottles (largest size) for $25.00 + shipping.
Karen R. Jan 19, 2009, 9:23pm EST
YOu can buy books by the box on ebay, too.
Marsha S. Jan 19, 2009, 9:24pm EST
I haven't even been to a beauty shop for a haircut in years.
Laura C. Jan 19, 2009, 9:24pm EST
i've used beer for my hair before...never heard about using egg...I have used egg on my face though, as a mask. My grandmother used it all her life for stuff and her skin was amazing....I know of some people who use mayo in their hair...i'm not so sure about that one though lol
Dagmara H. Jan 19, 2009, 9:24pm EST
Nelli I have heard about this before and yeah many people says that it is great conditioner. DO you know the mask from egg, honey and olive oil? It really works and it is also cheap
Karen R. Jan 19, 2009, 9:25pm EST
Garage sales are fun to go to and I also try to have one or two sales of my own each year.