Memorial Day Weekend: Spend with Joy, Save with Intention

AI generated image. Friends grilling and enjoying themselves.

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Memorial Day isn’t just a long weekend—it’s a moment to pause, connect with loved ones, and honor those who served. And like any holiday, it can also be a budget breaker or a values-aligned celebration, depending on your mindset.

Here are some ideas to enjoy the weekend without derailing your financial habits.

1. Budget the Joy, Not the Regret

It’s easy to go overboard—grabbing last-minute plane tickets, expensive meats, or a cartful of “just in case” items at Target. If you're hosting, have a budget in mind for the different items. You don't have to overcommit and overstress! Others can also bring sides to help you have a great event. If you're traveling out of town, you're budgeting for the joy of the trip and experience, not the stress and regret when you get back.

🎯 Quick Habit:

Before you swipe, ask: “Will I remember this next week—or will I be paying for it next month?” This is related to the Habit of Waiting to Spend.

What’s your comfortable number for the weekend, e.g., if you're hosting a BBQ? You're budgeting joy, not stress and regret.

☐ Total weekend budget: $_______(Include food, drinks, entertainment, and extras)

☐ Grocery list prepared?

☐ BYO? (Guests can bring drinks they like and perhaps a side)

2. Apply the 10-20-70 Plan, Even Now

Let the weekend reflect your financial integrity and commitment to your plan.

• 10% → Save before you splurge. Even a $50 transfer to savings is a win.

• 20% → Pay off a small chunk of debt. Start your summer with momentum.

• 70% → Use what’s left to live well—food, drinks, and fun.

3. Stack Joy + Gratitude

Remember, the best things this weekend aren’t things. They're the moments with friends and family. Honoring those who served. And taking a moment to appreciate the freedom to choose how you spend your time—and your money.

🌱 Weekend Habit

Celebrate consciously. Spend intentionally. Rest deeply.

✌️ Final Thought

Enjoy the weekend. We are spending time with family and friends. Soak up the sun if there is any where you are. Fire up the grill. Just don’t burn your budget in the process. Let us know why you're being intentional with spending this Memorial Day weekend.

Because the best summer memories don’t come from spending more—they come from aligning your money with your values.

To your success.