By Ann Arceo, AAMS®

While some of us may not feel like celebrating this year, others may feel like the holidays need to be extra special. It can all add up to a lot, and the excitement of a new year can quickly be ruined by a large credit card bill from your December shopping spree. Here are a few quick tips that we’re following to manage our holiday budget.

By Kerrie Beene, CFP®

Since Oprah stopped giving cars away in 2011, we recently had to face the challenge of getting our daughter a better vehicle. While her getting older and purchasing this car should have come as no surprise, it came faster than we wanted (we should have started earlier!!) and I wanted to share a few things we did to prepare for the purchase of the car.

• Utilizing Savings

• Throwing all Extra Funds into the Savings

• Create a Physical Savings Chart

• When the time arrives to Purchase, Choose a Budget!

• Involve your Teen in the Purchasing Process

• Utilize a Teachable Moment