- Kelseycharmayne
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
(Even If You’re Struggling With It Too)
Let’s be real—meal planning doesn’t always come naturally. I’ll admit it: I’ve struggled to get one in place myself. Between work, family, and everything, figuring out what to cook every night can feel like just one more thing to stress over.
But recently, I decided to take control—not just to feel more organized but also to stay on budget, reduce food waste, and avoid those last-minute “what’s for dinner?” scrambles that usually end with takeout.
If you’re in the same boat, I want you to know you’re not alone. Here's how I’m building a simple, sustainable meal plan—and how you can.
📝 1. Start with Why | Family Meal Plan
For me, it came down to a few key things:
I wanted to spend less money on groceries.
I needed a clear plan to avoid the midweek chaos.
I wanted to feel more confident and prepared every evening.
Knowing why you’re creating a family meal plan helps you stay motivated—even on the weeks when you feel too tired to think about it.
🛒 2. Take Inventory Before You Shop
Start by checking your pantry, fridge, and freezer. What do you already have on hand? Planning meals around what you already own can save you money right away.
Pro tip: Keep a small whiteboard or notepad on the fridge to jot down staples as they run out.
📆 3. Pick a Planning Day
I chose Sunday afternoons because it gives me a head start on the week. Set aside 30–45 minutes to:
Check your calendar (busy nights = quick meals or leftovers!)
Choose your meals
Make a grocery list based on those meals
It doesn’t need to be fancy—a notebook, app, or sticky notes will do the job.
🍽 4. Keep It Simple
You don’t need seven brand-new Pinterest-worthy recipes every week. Repeat favorites, use theme nights (like Taco Tuesday or Pasta Thursday), and leave room for flexibility. Here’s an example:
Monday – Crockpot chicken & veggies Tuesday – Tacos Wednesday – Leftovers or breakfast-for-dinner Thursday – Pasta night Friday – Homemade pizza Saturday – Eat out or freezer meal Sunday – Roast & sides
✍️ 5. Post It Where Everyone Can See
Write your weekly meal plan and stick it to the fridge. It helps reduce the “What’s for dinner?” questions and keeps everyone on the same page. Plus, it feels good to see your plan come to life.
✅ 6. Give Yourself Grace
Not every week will go perfectly—and that’s okay. Life happens. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s progress. Even just planning 3–4 meals a week is a win. You’re doing something great for your family and your peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by meal planning, know I’m right there with you. But I’ve learned that just starting imperfectly is better than doing nothing at all. The more you do it, the easier it gets.
And honestly, just having a plan makes the week feel much lighter.
About the Author
Hi, I’m Kelsey—the heart behind Kelseycharmayne Photography, LLC. I’m a family photographer based in Livonia, Michigan, passionate about capturing the real, everyday moments that matter most. From messy kitchens to family dinners, I believe your story is beautiful just as it is and deserves to be remembered.
📍 Livonia, MI
📞 734-521-7535
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