Tales from the DollarDays World

Small business owners are constantly keeping an eye on the company bottom line and doing everything possible to generate a profit. Developing ways to generate new business is the lifeblood of any organization. But keeping operating costs low is also a method for creating profit for the bottom line.

Teenage boys are expensive. When they're not eating you out of house and home, they're karate-chopping holes in the drywall or putting BB gun dings in your car's new paint job. One way to offset the expense of your favorite money pits is to buy and bulk. Stock up on these items now and you'll give your wallet a break later.

Every month for the past year we've given away $1,000's in Dollar Days merchandise to worthy non-profits, schools and small businesses. We enjoy giving back to the wonderful people that help make the world a better place. April 2012 was no different as we took nominates for Summer Camps.

Often, when people discuss living frugally, the discussion turns to saving a little extra cash by skipping that daily gourmet coffee or dining out less often. But when circumstances warrant trimming more than a few discretionary purchases, it is time to find ways to save more significantly on the monthly expenses. A close examination of one's budget often reveals that savings, in amounts both both large and small, can be found.

Springtime is gardening time, and all you need to make the most of it are a few staple items. From window boxes full of flowers to flourishing vegetable plots, creating the garden of your dreams is easy when you have the right tools.

Half the fun of going to birthday parties when you’re a kid is getting party favors. Having your very own little bag stuffed full of goodies is almost as exciting as the party itself. Even in today’s technology-obsessed society, kids get enjoyment out of things like small toys and plastic jewelry. These and other inexpensive party favors can make your child’s next birthday event more fun and memorable for every kid that attends.

Glow Sticks
Bright, colorful glow sticks capture the attention of kids and adults alike. Available in large quantities and in a variety of colors, these versatile party favors are perfect for just about any event. Some sets come complete with pieces that let kids join more than one glow stick together, allowing for the creation of unique jewelry and glowing “sculptures.”

Congratulations the winner in our March 2012 Help a Family in Need Contest.

Small businesses need to save as much money as possible. Smaller companies simply do not have the same financial resources that a larger company will have. Controlling how much money is spent on payroll can be a way for a small business to stay competitive. Hiring independent contractors offers a cost-effective solution when a business needs to hire extra help.

Opening a small business is a daunting enterprise these days. There’s a lot to remember, but most small business tips fall into four broad categories: plan, specialize, advertise and save.

Plan
Small business owners may be tempted to start right away, but without a plan, they’re going nowhere. An owner needs to take the time to sit down and write out a business plan. A business plan is simply a road map that lists business goals, how the owner means to achieve them, and in what time frame. Owners who plan to borrow money should always have a business plan. Potential lenders will demand to see this document, because a detailed plan shows them that the business owner is serious about his venture. It also tells them exactly how he proposes to pay back the loan.

Our small business contest was a huge success! We want to thank everyone that entered a local business in our February 2012 Contest. We received hundreds of nominations.