Save this July 4th!

July 4th is a time to celebrate our nation's independence with friends, family, food, and fireworks. But did you know that on average, Americans spend up to $3 billion on the holiday? According to Forbes, the average family will spend at least $55 for July 4th on food, flags, and other fun stuff.

I don't know about you, but I don't have $55 laying around to spend on July 4th. My family usually spends about $35-$40 each July 4th. Here is how we do it:

• Take inventory of what you already have. Already have hamburger meat? Don't feel you have to have to buy any, unless you are running low. Buy what you need, but only what you can afford. 
• If it can be made, make it! Potato salad is a staple for any July 4th celebration but sometimes it is cheaper to make it a day before than buying it. On Six Sister's Stuff, there is a recipe for super easy potato salad. It looks sooo good!
• Buy with coupons. If you're heading to the store, more than likely, there are coupons for you need. Be sure to check RedPlum and Coupons.com before going. 
• Make your party potluck! Don't feel like cooking? I don't blame ya. Who wants to cook when it's 1000* outside? Have party-goers bring some of their favorite dishes and whatever is left over, they can take home!
• Don't have flags? You can buy a 4-pack at Walmart for about $5 OR you can make a craft, like this super-cute windsock!
• One way we save is taking only as much as we'll eat. Coolers lose their ability to keep things from going bad once the ice starts melting. So unless you plan on grazing the entire time, only take what you think your family will eat. That cuts down on spending so much on food and more time for fun! If you're having a lot of people, making a list of how many people and buy accordingly.
• Ask party-goers to BYOA. Alcohol has gotten so expensive and if you're buying for more than 2 people, it can get pretty high. So asking your friends to bring their own alcohol won't put a strain on your friendship.