We’re closing in on the big day, and it’s time to consider the big grocery shop. That can be an intimidating prospect, especially when the store gets busy, when not wanting to forget anything, and, for some, the cost. In this edition of the Strive and Thrive Guide, we have tips for all three.
Stress Less, Shop Early
If you’re worried about the store being packed with shoppers, consider beating the rush and going this weekend. Many people wait until Tuesday or Wednesday to do their holiday shopping, but there’s not much difference between shopping right before and shopping this weekend (except the crowds). If you’re concerned about freshness, break the shopping trip in two. This weekend, buy your non-perishables and frozen goods. Then, on Tuesday or Wednesday, come back to pick up your produce, dairy, and meat.
Conquer Confusion, Master the List
The Co-op has shared our Ultimate Holiday Shopping List Method for seven years in a row now. And you know what? It’s still the best way to organize your shopping list.
Pro Tip: Make sure you include any non-food items you need. Dish soap, paper towels, a new kitchen sponge, toilet paper… you don’t want to run out in the holiday chaos!
Save Money at the Co-op
If you’re looking to cut costs this holiday season, there are lots of ways you can save at the co-op. First of all, the Bulk Department is your friend. You can get precisely the amount of spices, flours, and other dry goods you need. And, bulk items are already offered at reduced prices compared to packaged grocery items.
Co-op Basics and Co-op Deals are a great option. Right now, we have 1,200+ Co-op Deals items, many of which are Holiday essentials like pumpkin puree, cooking oils, crackers, stuffing mix, and nuts. Start by looking for the green-tag items, then the purple Co-op Basics (which offer low prices every day). Field Roast‘s vegan/vegetarian roasts are also on sale right now!
If this year things are tighter than usual, it’s okay to simplify. You don’t need to spend big money on fancy ingredients; a simple dish made with inexpensive but quality ingredients is just as good when you do it right.
Checklist Before Shopping
Make Sure You Have:
1. Your shopping list
2. A pen for crossing off items
3. Containers for bulk items (or use the ones provided)
4. Reusable bags!!!
While You’re Shopping
Stay on point. Now is not the time to start mixing up your recipe plans, unless you can’t find an ingredient. If you discover you can’t get a particular item, pull out your phone and search “substitute for XYZ.” It you see something that really catches your eye and want to switch something up, make sure you review and annotate your shopping list so that everything is up to date.
You may also like the Co-op’s Guide to Cheese Pairings
You may also like the Co-op’s Guide to Pie Apples
We’ll have more tips next week and each week before Thanksgiving. Tips for shopping (saving money while shopping), prepping, and cooking. On Monday, we have tips for cooking!
