by Melissa Uhles

Created on: April 21, 2009   Last Updated: April 23, 2009

Perhaps you've just spent $6.00 to see the matinee of "Confessions of a Shopaholic" and you're inspired to pay off your own debt and save. Wouldn't it be nice if our greatest financial sacrifice was discontinuing the purchase of Prada boots. Keep in mind, spending is about prioritizing. It's still important to experience small joys and splurges now and then. This may be the first article you've read that doesn't tell you to give up lattes altogether and make your own coffee. Make it a special treat once a week instead of once a day.

Following are a list of tips from someone who was frugal before the this most recent blip in the economy:

1. Use the library to access free books and DVD's.

2. Shop at the dollar store for basic items and kid's gifts.

3. Live without Direct TV.

4. Check Craigslist FREE, FOR SALE & GARAGE SALE SECTIONS for deals.

5. If you've moved and need furniture, have a housewarming party and ask invitees to bring any used items they are getting rid of that might help you furnish your place. In exchange, provide snacks and 2 buck chuck (Trader Joe's $2 wine) for all.

6. Having a baby? Email all your friends with the list of stuff you need. Babies grow quickly and people love to unload the stuff they'll never use again, you can offer to pay a small fee and pick up stuff immediately.

7. Barter! I've exchanged personal assistant services in exchange for furniture and given free writing services for referrals.

8. See matinee movies. The first show of the day is usually cheapest.

9. Buy and sell books at a book resale shop.

10. Consign your wedding dress, furniture or clothing for profit.

11. Have a garage sale or sell your stuff on eBay or Craigslist.

12. Research local grocery stores to find the cheapest prices. Shop at that store and use coupons if you can find them for products you actually need.

13. Buy a used car. Shop around and know that dealers offer the cheapest prices around New Year's when they must clear out their inventory.

14. Requests giftcards for your birthday and Christmas gifts. It's an opportunity to acquire something you need without your own cash.

15. Do a clothing "exchange" with one or more friends. Clean out your closet and get together with friends to exchange clothes and acquire a new wardrobe for free.

16. If you have a cause that you'd like to contribute to but can't afford to write a check, volunteer or organize a fundraiser for a local nonprofit.

17. Save money on pictures by ordering prints of digital photos at sites like Snapfish.com

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