I’m here to help inspire you to create a healthy home.

Hello! I’m Aimee Guess and welcome to Homemaker On A Budget, where you’ll find fresh, clean, and inspiring recipes to help you create delicious meals at home – without breaking the bank. Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly, non-toxic living tips, or seeking hope and healing through natural wellness, this is a place to refresh your kitchen and life as the home economist.

Budget Tips

Your budget is the single most important tool you have in life to further your dreams. Focus on your grocery budget to help you save money each month to meet your goals.

Non-Toxic living

Eliminating toxics in the home is easier than you think. It’s all about picking better brands. Let me show you which brands I love.

Cook from Scratch

Simplify your cooking methods to create nourishing meals your family will love. Let me show you what I cook in my kitchen for my family of 6.

wellness after cancer

In 2024 I underwent 6 months of chemotherapy and beat Stage 3 Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Let me help you through your cancer journey and teach you that you can live a healthy life after cancer.

Introducing my new Book

The Ultimate Kitchen Guide

to food storage, freezer rotation, & zero food waste

Take back your kitchen’s purpose and reformulate the way you manage your kitchen. If you have an unorganized pantry, food going bad in your refrigerator, and you have no idea what’s at the bottom of your freezer, then let me help you create unity and purpose when grocery shopping and planning. We want to fill your freezer with foods that will help on those busy nights, to keep you from eating out and overspending.

  • Let’s talk beef jerky because not all protein snacks are created equal. 🚫

That “celery powder” on the label? It’s not as innocent as it sounds. It’s often a sneaky source of nitrates, the same stuff we’re trying to avoid in conventional preservatives.

Just because it says “no nitrates added” doesn’t mean they’re not there.

✅ What I look for instead:
•100% grass-fed
•No sugar
•No celery powder (aka “natural nitrates” in disguise)
•Simple spices only

Moms, read the labels. Our kids (and our bodies) deserve real food—without the marketing tricks.

Beef jerky is not something we eat often, but it’s a healthier convenience food for when we’re stuck on the go!

👉 Comment JERKY and I’ll send you my favorite clean brands!

Resource: American Institute for Cancer Research - https://www.aicr.org/resources/blog/healthtalk-will-hot-dogs-and-bacon-preserved-with-celery-powder-still-increase-my-cancer-risk/

#momonamission #healthylifestyle #cancersurvivor #healthyfood @solelyfruit
  • 32 hours. 6 people. Zero fast food. 🙌🏼

We’re moving across the country, and by God’s grace, we’ve stayed nourished and healthy.

We prayed for provision and simplicity, and He delivered.

Here’s what’s been keeping us fueled on this journey:

✅ Hard boiled eggs
✅ Beef sticks (Epic brand, no celery powder)
✅ Fresh fruit (apples, bananas, oranges)
✅ Raw carrots
✅ Fruit leather @solelyfruit 
✅ Walnuts + granola bars
✅ Cheese sticks
✅ Sourdough bread
✅ Crackers
✅ Protein powder for quick shakes
✅ Just Ingredients electrolytes

We’ve stopped a few times at gas stations and bought a “fun” drink, no soda! We’re sticking to Poppi or @drinkolipop , teas, juices, and waters.

It’s not fancy, but it’s real food, and it’s enough.

We’re reminded that even in the car, God provides what we need along the way.

Drop a ❤️ if you’re choosing real food nourishment on the go.

👉 Want to know how I manage my kitchen and keep it organized for my family of 6? I put all that information + 20 of our favorite freezer recipes in my Ultimate Kitchen Guide. Comment GUIDE and I’ll send it your way.

#FaithFueled #RoadTripWithPurpose #HealthyFamilyMeals #HomemakerOnABudget #GodProvides #CrossCountryMove #MamaOnAMission
  • Dinner for 6 at Whole Foods: $50.
Cheap? No way.
Healthy, simple, and no fuss? Totally!

We grabbed hard-boiled eggs, Kerrygold cheese sticks, fruit, crackers, and a few @drinkolipop because eating well on the road matters too. 

We didn’t spend any money the first day, since we packed food from home. 

Sometimes, it’s not about saving every dollar, it’s about nourishing your family without the drive-thru. 💛 I just refuse to feed my family with fast food on this cross-country move.

👉 Want to know how I manage my kitchen and keep it organized for my family of 6? I put all that information + 20 of our favorite freezer recipes in my Ultimate Kitchen Guide. Comment GUIDE and I’ll send it your way.

#homemakeronabudget #roadtripmeals #wholefoodfamily #simpleandhealthy #momlife
  • Two months ago, I said goodbye to my dad.
And now… I’m saying goodbye to what encompasses home, my mom and our community. We’re leaving California and moving to Virginia for an amazing job opportunity.

This move isn’t just about packing boxes, it’s about grief, growth, and stepping into something new with faith. We all know God is guiding this move, we all see His touch, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy.

Goodbyes are hard, but I’m trusting there’s beauty on the other side. Pray for my mom ❤️ and pray she can join me soon! 

When the time is right, I’m flying home to get my mom. 

#CrossCountryMove #GriefAndGrace #HomemakerOnABudget #GoodbyesAreHard #TrustingGodInTheUnknown
  • The floors are a mess, the house is empty, and we’re gearing up for our cross-country move… but this vacuum is saving me. 🙌🏼

The Ultenic AC1 Elite Wet Dry Vacuum mops and vacuums at the same time, and even self-cleans (yes, really). It’s a total game-changer for busy moms who don’t have time to clean the same mess twice. 🧼

If your floors are always dirty and your hands are always full…
👇🏼
Comment “WET” and I’ll send you the special PRIME DAY link! Save $113 on this Prime Day Deal!

I add my own floor cleaner, about 1-2 Tbsp and it works great!

#wetdryvacuum #momlifehacks #homemakeronabudget #cleanhomefast #ultenic #ultenicac1elite
  • We’re moving from California to Virginia with 4 kids, no cooler, and still sticking to our $1,000 grocery budget 💪🏼
That means no fast food, no junk—just real food, even on the road.

Here’s how we’re making it work:

We’re packing our favorite beef jerky, @solelyfruit fruit, peanut butter and jelly packets with some crackers.

We’re planning on eating: 

🥚 Hard-boiled eggs from the grocery store – quick protein, no prep.
🍓 Fresh fruits + veggies – apples, carrots, snap peas, cucumbers—easy to pack and hydrating too.
🍞 Homemade sourdough – because you know I had to bake before we left.
💦 Just Ingredients electrolytes – clean hydration for those long driving days.
🥤 Protein powder – perfect when we need a fast, filling meal without a full kitchen.

We may be cross-country, but we’re not crossing into fast food land 👏🏼

Real food is still possible, even in a packed car with four kids.

👉 Want to know how I manage my kitchen and keep it organized for my family of 6? I put all that information + 20 of our favorite freezer recipes in my Ultimate Kitchen Guide. Comment GUIDE and I’ll send it your way.

#realfoodontheroad #movingwithkids #grocerybudget #homemakeronabudget #nourishonthego #wholefoodfamily #budgetmeals #roadtripfood
  • Eating well doesn't have to break the bank! We feed our family of 6 (3) whole food meals a day for just $5.56 per person.

5 Tips to Stay on Budget While Eating Real Food:
1. Shop your pantry + freezer first – Use what you already have before buying more. We also have a @butcher_box delivered every 6 weeks! Comment BUTCHER for an awesome promotional deal!
2. Cook once, eat twice – repurpose leftovers into new meals, this works best with proteins and sweet potatoes.
3. Stick to the basics – rice, eggs, potatoes, beans, chicken. Simple ingredients go far.
4. Avoid the snack aisle – make nourishing snacks at home with whole ingredients.
5. Don’t buy expensive fruit - stick with apples, bananas, frozen berries, and melon.
It’s possible, with a plan.

Comment BUDGET if you want to read more about our grocery budget - how we do it 🙌

👉 Want to know how I manage my kitchen and keep it organized for my family of 6? I put all that information + 20 of our favorite freezer recipes in my Ultimate Kitchen Guide. Comment GUIDE and I’ll send it your way.

#homemakeronabudget #realfoodbudget #groceryhaul #budgetmeals #feedthefamily #realfoodmovement #wholefoodsbudget
  • Comment SUMMER for links to my favorite summer things. 🏖️ 

These are products I use every single day! I absolutely love them! ❤️

Dole Whip Recipe:
2 cups frozen pineapple
1/4 cup coconut milk (canned)

Place frozen pineapple in a food processor and let it sit there for about 10 minutes. Pulse 8 times, then add the milk. Blend until smooth, roughly 2 minutes. Add a touch of honey if necessary. 

#summervibes☀️ #homemakerlife
  • Carrots 🥕 have super powers! 💥 Every day, I eat 1 raw carrot, ½ a beet, and ½ an apple. It’s part of my simple routine to support the body God gave me, in the most natural and gentle way.

I’ve learned that carrots help the body detox excess estrogen, while beets and apples support liver health and digestion. Nothing fancy. Just real food, the way God intended it.

We saw amazing results through bloodwork that by doing this, and no other changes in meds, diet, or lifestyle, my mom’s cholesterol dropped 50 points in less than 3 months! Her eye pressure is now in the normal range and she doesn’t need surgery! 

Real food is HEALING!

I’ve seen firsthand how these little daily choices add up. Stewarding our health doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive—just consistent.

Other ways to help reduce excess estrogen:
•Limit processed foods and seed oils
•Support liver health (through real food, hydration, and avoiding toxins)
•Reduce plastic and chemical exposure (especially in personal care products)

 👉 Want to know how I manage my kitchen and keep it organized for my family of 6? I put all that information + 20 of our favorite freezer recipes in my Ultimate Kitchen Guide.
Comment GUIDE and I’ll send it your way.

#homemakeronabudget #faithfulnourishment #realfoodhealing #simplehealth #hormonebalance
Let’s talk beef jerky because not all protein snacks are created equal. 🚫 That “celery powder” on the label? It’s not as innocent as it sounds. It’s often a sneaky source of nitrates, the same stuff we’re trying to avoid in conventional preservatives. Just because it says “no nitrates added” doesn’t mean they’re not there. ✅ What I look for instead: •100% grass-fed •No sugar •No celery powder (aka “natural nitrates” in disguise) •Simple spices only Moms, read the labels. Our kids (and our bodies) deserve real food—without the marketing tricks. Beef jerky is not something we eat often, but it’s a healthier convenience food for when we’re stuck on the go! 👉 Comment JERKY and I’ll send you my favorite clean brands! Resource: American Institute for Cancer Research - https://www.aicr.org/resources/blog/healthtalk-will-hot-dogs-and-bacon-preserved-with-celery-powder-still-increase-my-cancer-risk/ #momonamission #healthylifestyle #cancersurvivor #healthyfood @solelyfruit
1 day ago
View on Instagram |
1/9
32 hours. 6 people. Zero fast food. 🙌🏼 We’re moving across the country, and by God’s grace, we’ve stayed nourished and healthy. We prayed for provision and simplicity, and He delivered. Here’s what’s been keeping us fueled on this journey: ✅ Hard boiled eggs ✅ Beef sticks (Epic brand, no celery powder) ✅ Fresh fruit (apples, bananas, oranges) ✅ Raw carrots ✅ Fruit leather @solelyfruit ✅ Walnuts + granola bars ✅ Cheese sticks ✅ Sourdough bread ✅ Crackers ✅ Protein powder for quick shakes ✅ Just Ingredients electrolytes We’ve stopped a few times at gas stations and bought a “fun” drink, no soda! We’re sticking to Poppi or @drinkolipop , teas, juices, and waters. It’s not fancy, but it’s real food, and it’s enough. We’re reminded that even in the car, God provides what we need along the way. Drop a ❤️ if you’re choosing real food nourishment on the go. 👉 Want to know how I manage my kitchen and keep it organized for my family of 6? I put all that information + 20 of our favorite freezer recipes in my Ultimate Kitchen Guide. Comment GUIDE and I’ll send it your way. #FaithFueled #RoadTripWithPurpose #HealthyFamilyMeals #HomemakerOnABudget #GodProvides #CrossCountryMove #MamaOnAMission
2 days ago
View on Instagram |
2/9
Dinner for 6 at Whole Foods: $50. Cheap? No way. Healthy, simple, and no fuss? Totally! We grabbed hard-boiled eggs, Kerrygold cheese sticks, fruit, crackers, and a few @drinkolipop because eating well on the road matters too. We didn’t spend any money the first day, since we packed food from home. Sometimes, it’s not about saving every dollar, it’s about nourishing your family without the drive-thru. 💛 I just refuse to feed my family with fast food on this cross-country move. 👉 Want to know how I manage my kitchen and keep it organized for my family of 6? I put all that information + 20 of our favorite freezer recipes in my Ultimate Kitchen Guide. Comment GUIDE and I’ll send it your way. #homemakeronabudget #roadtripmeals #wholefoodfamily #simpleandhealthy #momlife
4 days ago
View on Instagram |
3/9
Two months ago, I said goodbye to my dad. And now… I’m saying goodbye to what encompasses home, my mom and our community. We’re leaving California and moving to Virginia for an amazing job opportunity. This move isn’t just about packing boxes, it’s about grief, growth, and stepping into something new with faith. We all know God is guiding this move, we all see His touch, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy. Goodbyes are hard, but I’m trusting there’s beauty on the other side. Pray for my mom ❤️ and pray she can join me soon! When the time is right, I’m flying home to get my mom. #CrossCountryMove #GriefAndGrace #HomemakerOnABudget #GoodbyesAreHard #TrustingGodInTheUnknown
5 days ago
View on Instagram |
4/9
The floors are a mess, the house is empty, and we’re gearing up for our cross-country move… but this vacuum is saving me. 🙌🏼 The Ultenic AC1 Elite Wet Dry Vacuum mops and vacuums at the same time, and even self-cleans (yes, really). It’s a total game-changer for busy moms who don’t have time to clean the same mess twice. 🧼 If your floors are always dirty and your hands are always full… 👇🏼 Comment “WET” and I’ll send you the special PRIME DAY link! Save $113 on this Prime Day Deal! I add my own floor cleaner, about 1-2 Tbsp and it works great! #wetdryvacuum #momlifehacks #homemakeronabudget #cleanhomefast #ultenic #ultenicac1elite
6 days ago
View on Instagram |
5/9
We’re moving from California to Virginia with 4 kids, no cooler, and still sticking to our $1,000 grocery budget 💪🏼 That means no fast food, no junk—just real food, even on the road. Here’s how we’re making it work: We’re packing our favorite beef jerky, @solelyfruit fruit, peanut butter and jelly packets with some crackers. We’re planning on eating: 🥚 Hard-boiled eggs from the grocery store – quick protein, no prep. 🍓 Fresh fruits + veggies – apples, carrots, snap peas, cucumbers—easy to pack and hydrating too. 🍞 Homemade sourdough – because you know I had to bake before we left. 💦 Just Ingredients electrolytes – clean hydration for those long driving days. 🥤 Protein powder – perfect when we need a fast, filling meal without a full kitchen. We may be cross-country, but we’re not crossing into fast food land 👏🏼 Real food is still possible, even in a packed car with four kids. 👉 Want to know how I manage my kitchen and keep it organized for my family of 6? I put all that information + 20 of our favorite freezer recipes in my Ultimate Kitchen Guide. Comment GUIDE and I’ll send it your way. #realfoodontheroad #movingwithkids #grocerybudget #homemakeronabudget #nourishonthego #wholefoodfamily #budgetmeals #roadtripfood
1 week ago
View on Instagram |
6/9
Eating well doesn't have to break the bank! We feed our family of 6 (3) whole food meals a day for just $5.56 per person. 5 Tips to Stay on Budget While Eating Real Food: 1. Shop your pantry + freezer first – Use what you already have before buying more. We also have a @butcher_box delivered every 6 weeks! Comment BUTCHER for an awesome promotional deal! 2. Cook once, eat twice – repurpose leftovers into new meals, this works best with proteins and sweet potatoes. 3. Stick to the basics – rice, eggs, potatoes, beans, chicken. Simple ingredients go far. 4. Avoid the snack aisle – make nourishing snacks at home with whole ingredients. 5. Don’t buy expensive fruit - stick with apples, bananas, frozen berries, and melon. It’s possible, with a plan. Comment BUDGET if you want to read more about our grocery budget - how we do it 🙌 👉 Want to know how I manage my kitchen and keep it organized for my family of 6? I put all that information + 20 of our favorite freezer recipes in my Ultimate Kitchen Guide. Comment GUIDE and I’ll send it your way. #homemakeronabudget #realfoodbudget #groceryhaul #budgetmeals #feedthefamily #realfoodmovement #wholefoodsbudget
1 week ago
View on Instagram |
7/9
Comment SUMMER for links to my favorite summer things. 🏖️ 

These are products I use every single day! I absolutely love them! ❤️

Dole Whip Recipe:
2 cups frozen pineapple
1/4 cup coconut milk (canned)

Place frozen pineapple in a food processor and let it sit there for about 10 minutes. Pulse 8 times, then add the milk. Blend until smooth, roughly 2 minutes. Add a touch of honey if necessary. 

#summervibes☀️ #homemakerlife
Comment SUMMER for links to my favorite summer things. 🏖️ 

These are products I use every single day! I absolutely love them! ❤️

Dole Whip Recipe:
2 cups frozen pineapple
1/4 cup coconut milk (canned)

Place frozen pineapple in a food processor and let it sit there for about 10 minutes. Pulse 8 times, then add the milk. Blend until smooth, roughly 2 minutes. Add a touch of honey if necessary. 

#summervibes☀️ #homemakerlife
Comment SUMMER for links to my favorite summer things. 🏖️ 

These are products I use every single day! I absolutely love them! ❤️

Dole Whip Recipe:
2 cups frozen pineapple
1/4 cup coconut milk (canned)

Place frozen pineapple in a food processor and let it sit there for about 10 minutes. Pulse 8 times, then add the milk. Blend until smooth, roughly 2 minutes. Add a touch of honey if necessary. 

#summervibes☀️ #homemakerlife
Comment SUMMER for links to my favorite summer things. 🏖️ 

These are products I use every single day! I absolutely love them! ❤️

Dole Whip Recipe:
2 cups frozen pineapple
1/4 cup coconut milk (canned)

Place frozen pineapple in a food processor and let it sit there for about 10 minutes. Pulse 8 times, then add the milk. Blend until smooth, roughly 2 minutes. Add a touch of honey if necessary. 

#summervibes☀️ #homemakerlife
Comment SUMMER for links to my favorite summer things. 🏖️ 

These are products I use every single day! I absolutely love them! ❤️

Dole Whip Recipe:
2 cups frozen pineapple
1/4 cup coconut milk (canned)

Place frozen pineapple in a food processor and let it sit there for about 10 minutes. Pulse 8 times, then add the milk. Blend until smooth, roughly 2 minutes. Add a touch of honey if necessary. 

#summervibes☀️ #homemakerlife
Comment SUMMER for links to my favorite summer things. 🏖️ 

These are products I use every single day! I absolutely love them! ❤️

Dole Whip Recipe:
2 cups frozen pineapple
1/4 cup coconut milk (canned)

Place frozen pineapple in a food processor and let it sit there for about 10 minutes. Pulse 8 times, then add the milk. Blend until smooth, roughly 2 minutes. Add a touch of honey if necessary. 

#summervibes☀️ #homemakerlife
Comment SUMMER for links to my favorite summer things. 🏖️ These are products I use every single day! I absolutely love them! ❤️ Dole Whip Recipe: 2 cups frozen pineapple 1/4 cup coconut milk (canned) Place frozen pineapple in a food processor and let it sit there for about 10 minutes. Pulse 8 times, then add the milk. Blend until smooth, roughly 2 minutes. Add a touch of honey if necessary. #summervibes☀️ #homemakerlife
1 week ago
View on Instagram |
8/9
Carrots 🥕 have super powers! 💥 Every day, I eat 1 raw carrot, ½ a beet, and ½ an apple. It’s part of my simple routine to support the body God gave me, in the most natural and gentle way. I’ve learned that carrots help the body detox excess estrogen, while beets and apples support liver health and digestion. Nothing fancy. Just real food, the way God intended it. We saw amazing results through bloodwork that by doing this, and no other changes in meds, diet, or lifestyle, my mom’s cholesterol dropped 50 points in less than 3 months! Her eye pressure is now in the normal range and she doesn’t need surgery! Real food is HEALING! I’ve seen firsthand how these little daily choices add up. Stewarding our health doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive—just consistent. Other ways to help reduce excess estrogen: •Limit processed foods and seed oils •Support liver health (through real food, hydration, and avoiding toxins) •Reduce plastic and chemical exposure (especially in personal care products) 👉 Want to know how I manage my kitchen and keep it organized for my family of 6? I put all that information + 20 of our favorite freezer recipes in my Ultimate Kitchen Guide. Comment GUIDE and I’ll send it your way. #homemakeronabudget #faithfulnourishment #realfoodhealing #simplehealth #hormonebalance
1 week ago
View on Instagram |
9/9
With over 600 copies sold!

Sourdough Cookbook

40 EVERYDAY SOURDOUGH RECIPES FROM MY KITCHEN TO YOURS!

Learn the fundamentals of sourdough, how to create a sourdough starter, make my easy sourdough bread recipe (with no stretch and folds), and make many different breakfast, savory, and sweet creations. This eBook is chalked full of valuable sourdough content that can help you, whether you’re a sourdough rookie or master pro, this is for you.

Aimee Guess holding bowl of sourdough starter

Hi! I’m Aimee!

Homemaking on a budget allows you to create a warm, nourishing home filled with simple joys, proving that a beautiful life isn’t about how much you spend, but how intentionally you live. By embracing clean living and home-cooked meals, you can gain the freedom to prioritize what truly matters: health, family, and peace that comes from a well-loved home. As the home economist, you can do just that!

What’s New

Grab a copy of my free ebook!

6 Ways To Cut $40 OFF Your Grocery Bill Now!

Your grocery budget is the most flexible of all your spending categories, so why not lower your grocery expenses and follow these six steps to meet your financial goals?

create your very own

Recipe Keeper

Take your favorite family recipes and make a treasured keepsake that can be passed down through the family. No body will look at your Pinterest boards someday, but they will love pouring themselves over your Recipe Keeper as they reminisce about the meals you created.

COMING SOON