If you have been reading my previous blog entries, I tend to shop around for sometimes days or weeks before I decided to finally buy or keep something I have already purchased. I am not satisfied until I get the best deal possible. In many instances, this extreme pickiness and incessant need to get a deal has helped me to save money, however this has not always been my preferred shopping method.
I remember when I was little, my Auntie Linda would look through all of the Sunday flyers for the best deals and would not purchase anything unless it was on sale. My Mom and Dad were always sale shoppers, but often didn't want to spend their spare time flipping through circulars or clipping coupons and I despised spending time before going shopping looking for the best deals. All that changed when I was 18, in college and having to fund all of my clothing purchases for the first time on my own. Very quickly I no longer was willing to pay full price for a t-shirt of pair of shoes. Over the past decade, this philosophy has stuck with me, so much so, that just a few weeks ago, I purchased a shirt 3 times to save $18 and have been known to bring snack food (dried apricots and Pringles) with me to conferences in my checked luggage to save money on food. Both are long stories and will be saved for a future blogs, but anyway, my point is, don't be afraid to shop around or find unique ways to save yourself a few bucks.
All of us have heard Suze Orman or other finanacial analysts tell us to track our daily purchases because we tend to waste significant amounts of money on Starbucks (not hating on them, every once in a while I have to have a Carmel Apple Spice, but certainly only once a month, not once a day), dining out, alcohol at resaturants, and snacks at movies or gas stations while travelling. I argue that there are other things that we waste money on that are far more detremental and add up significantly more quickly than a daily Starbucks drink. In thinking about some of my friends in financial quandries, they may not be able to pay a bill, but certainly will pay $25-50 dollars every couple of weeks to get their nails done. I guess for some of us it is about priorities, but for others, I think you really can shop around and still get the same experiences, just not as frequently.
As my best friends Shannon, Lindy and I were on the phone tonight planning Shannon's upcoming wedding in Las Vegas, we were discussing getting our hair, nails, make-up and other services done at the hotel. Trying to be mindful of the cost of each of these, I made the suggestion that we cut out getting pedicures, and spend the money on manicures instead. All of us agreed to get our pedicures prior to departure for less than half the cost we would pay at the hotel. This will easily save us $50 a piece. In addition, I always tend to pack a sandwich or find a Walgreen's or CVS when I travel to pick up food and drinks as opposed to buying those items in the airport gift shops or eating out as the savings tend to be close to 50%. Do my friends make fun of me, most definately, but I stand firm in the belief that every little bit helps so don't be afraid to shop around and think creatively about ways that you can save yourself some money while at home and abroad!
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Tip of the Day: For Fall, Don't be Afraid of a little Color!
Today I decided to switch it up a bit and have some fun with my wardrobe and color. This is a far cry from my previous beliefs on fashion and matching. Although I still try to color coordinate, I am no longer afraid to stand out a bit but that is a continual work in progress.
When I was little, I was always a chubby and insecure little kid and never wanted to stand out, I wanted to blend in. Now, as I have become older and wiser, I have also become more comfortable in my own skin and with that, am no longer as afraid to stand out. I might also credit no longer having this fear to the fact that on any given day on the college campus which I work, there are hundreds of other people who are wearing more wacked out outfits than mine. Sometimes I wonder if students look in the mirror before they leave home, therefore I am willing to be a bit adventurous in my use of color in my wardrobe.
As I was shopping over the weekend with a friend (I just want to point out that I went strictly as a consultant and only purchased on item), I saw a mannequin wearing burnt orange tights and fell in love with the idea of adding a bit of splash and pizazz to my fall wardrobe. Therefore the one item I bought were the burnt orange and purple tights. By adding slight, unexpected pops of color, is not only an economical way ($4-8 a pair on sale) to spruce up your wardrobe, but also fun. When I woke up this morning and got dressed, I was determined to wear my new purple tights. Now I have worn unexpected colors of tights in the past, but often they have been more neutral colors as opposed to purple or orange. At first I was a bit apprehensive, but then decided to go with it and all day, I continued to receive compliments from my co-workers. Now I am not sure if they really loved my new and inventive use of color, or if they were just envious of my brashness to wear such a bold color, but either way, people continued to shower me with compliments all day. I also paired the purple tights with a fun pair or patent and gray Mary Jane's which also added to the overall look and appeal of the outfit. I was able to have fun, but still remain professional and appropriate for my work setting.
With all of the crazy fashions out there (just take a look at Lady GaGa's closet!!) adding color is a good way for people to be conservatively experimental. As you thumb through this falls catalogues, splashes of color are added in surprising ways. Next time you are out shopping, look for ways that you can add colorful, but fun different pieces to your fall attire. Some of my favorites inclued shoes, tights, scarfs, and big bold rings. Have fun, you deserve it and be sure to treat yourself and add color to your world!
When I was little, I was always a chubby and insecure little kid and never wanted to stand out, I wanted to blend in. Now, as I have become older and wiser, I have also become more comfortable in my own skin and with that, am no longer as afraid to stand out. I might also credit no longer having this fear to the fact that on any given day on the college campus which I work, there are hundreds of other people who are wearing more wacked out outfits than mine. Sometimes I wonder if students look in the mirror before they leave home, therefore I am willing to be a bit adventurous in my use of color in my wardrobe.
As I was shopping over the weekend with a friend (I just want to point out that I went strictly as a consultant and only purchased on item), I saw a mannequin wearing burnt orange tights and fell in love with the idea of adding a bit of splash and pizazz to my fall wardrobe. Therefore the one item I bought were the burnt orange and purple tights. By adding slight, unexpected pops of color, is not only an economical way ($4-8 a pair on sale) to spruce up your wardrobe, but also fun. When I woke up this morning and got dressed, I was determined to wear my new purple tights. Now I have worn unexpected colors of tights in the past, but often they have been more neutral colors as opposed to purple or orange. At first I was a bit apprehensive, but then decided to go with it and all day, I continued to receive compliments from my co-workers. Now I am not sure if they really loved my new and inventive use of color, or if they were just envious of my brashness to wear such a bold color, but either way, people continued to shower me with compliments all day. I also paired the purple tights with a fun pair or patent and gray Mary Jane's which also added to the overall look and appeal of the outfit. I was able to have fun, but still remain professional and appropriate for my work setting.
With all of the crazy fashions out there (just take a look at Lady GaGa's closet!!) adding color is a good way for people to be conservatively experimental. As you thumb through this falls catalogues, splashes of color are added in surprising ways. Next time you are out shopping, look for ways that you can add colorful, but fun different pieces to your fall attire. Some of my favorites inclued shoes, tights, scarfs, and big bold rings. Have fun, you deserve it and be sure to treat yourself and add color to your world!
Friday, September 18, 2009
Tip of the Day: Observe Your Shopping Techniques - You Shop for Mates in a Similar Way
While sitting at dinner tonight with friends, we made an amazing observation one that I think is quite genius, people tend to shop in the same way they shop for a mate. On the surface this seems to make sense since in both circumstances you are searching for the "perfect fit", but really it goes much deeper than that.
I will use myself as an example of what I mean. I absolutely love to shop (thus why I began writing this blog) and I am always looking for a new fashion, style, or item that no one else has. It is important to me that I go shopping with others as their approval is extremely important. Very seldom, if ever, do I settle if something doesn't fit right and I have no shame in returning items to a store if it doesn't fit just perfectly. I am very picky and I am willing to wait to find "the perfect item". As my friend described, I like "good quality, well put together, smart" looking clothing. When I try on clothes, more often than not, I instantly know if I like the item or if I think it is not worth the money. On the rare occasion that I buy something that someone else likes on me, it takes me a while to become comfortable in the clothing and to really embrace its true hidden beauty.
Similarly when I think about my never ending (and I do mean never ending) search for a mate, I seem to employ many of my shopping techniques into my mate shopping. Although I hate to admit it, many men catch my eye, yet few really capture my heart. Working in a college environment, I have had to become comfortable with surprises, in tune with ever changing student needs, and work to easily say goodbye to people on a regular basis. Because of this environment that I live and work in each day, something new is always catching my eye, but similar to my clothes, I feel very few are worth my limited resources (time & money). Many men I tend to dismiss quickly if I don't feel that they fit well (similar to my clothes) into my crazy chaotic lifestyle. On the rare occasion that I give someone a second look, it is often as a result of encouragement from my friends. It is a result of their approval that I continue to pursue a relationship or interest in these men. I am willing to wait to find my "perfect fit"; a man who is of "good quality, well put together, and smart".
Although I am able to draw some parallels between my clothing and mate searches, this may not work for everyone. Even though up to this point I have been more successful with my shopping ventures than my male ventures, I am still determined to find the ultimate fit for me. The next time you head out on a shopping excursion, observe some of your behaviors and see if at all, you shop for a mate in a similar way. You might be surprised by what you learn.
In Shopping Sale Solidarity
I will use myself as an example of what I mean. I absolutely love to shop (thus why I began writing this blog) and I am always looking for a new fashion, style, or item that no one else has. It is important to me that I go shopping with others as their approval is extremely important. Very seldom, if ever, do I settle if something doesn't fit right and I have no shame in returning items to a store if it doesn't fit just perfectly. I am very picky and I am willing to wait to find "the perfect item". As my friend described, I like "good quality, well put together, smart" looking clothing. When I try on clothes, more often than not, I instantly know if I like the item or if I think it is not worth the money. On the rare occasion that I buy something that someone else likes on me, it takes me a while to become comfortable in the clothing and to really embrace its true hidden beauty.
Similarly when I think about my never ending (and I do mean never ending) search for a mate, I seem to employ many of my shopping techniques into my mate shopping. Although I hate to admit it, many men catch my eye, yet few really capture my heart. Working in a college environment, I have had to become comfortable with surprises, in tune with ever changing student needs, and work to easily say goodbye to people on a regular basis. Because of this environment that I live and work in each day, something new is always catching my eye, but similar to my clothes, I feel very few are worth my limited resources (time & money). Many men I tend to dismiss quickly if I don't feel that they fit well (similar to my clothes) into my crazy chaotic lifestyle. On the rare occasion that I give someone a second look, it is often as a result of encouragement from my friends. It is a result of their approval that I continue to pursue a relationship or interest in these men. I am willing to wait to find my "perfect fit"; a man who is of "good quality, well put together, and smart".
Although I am able to draw some parallels between my clothing and mate searches, this may not work for everyone. Even though up to this point I have been more successful with my shopping ventures than my male ventures, I am still determined to find the ultimate fit for me. The next time you head out on a shopping excursion, observe some of your behaviors and see if at all, you shop for a mate in a similar way. You might be surprised by what you learn.
In Shopping Sale Solidarity
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Tip of the Day: Try Before You Buy
This seems to make sense, but I have a twist on this old adage. Since living more than an hour away from any good shopping for the past 7 years, I have not only turned to the internet, but have also devised my own techniques. One thing that I often do when I make it to a larger "shopping Mecca" is visit my favorite stores and try on some of the latest fashions. Although these items are typically not on sale, I at least get a sense of what size I need, whether I like the item or not, and am able to see it in person. Then I make a mental list of what I liked and would want to purchase if and when it goes on sale. Every couple of weeks (or days depending upon the work week that I have had) I will return to the virtual versions of the stores to see if the items have reduced in price.
Since I have tried it on already, I tend to be even more excited after ordering knowing that I will enjoy the clothing and it will fit. Now this may not work for everyone, but can be especially fun if you are with friends who can give you their opinion which is always better than you standing alone in front of your mirror. Trying the clothes on in the stores also helps curtail my insatiable urge and need to purchase items when I am actually there in person while also allowing me relish in my final sale purchase price.
In Shopping Sale Solidarity
Since I have tried it on already, I tend to be even more excited after ordering knowing that I will enjoy the clothing and it will fit. Now this may not work for everyone, but can be especially fun if you are with friends who can give you their opinion which is always better than you standing alone in front of your mirror. Trying the clothes on in the stores also helps curtail my insatiable urge and need to purchase items when I am actually there in person while also allowing me relish in my final sale purchase price.
In Shopping Sale Solidarity
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Tip of the Day: Sign Up for Frequent Shopper Cards
A year or so ago I was at home shopping with my Mom, a common occurrence, when we were standing at the register and the checker asked my Mom if she had a "savings card". To my astonishment and slight embarrassment, my Mom pulled over 100 cards for various stores out of her purse and thumbed through them like a deck of cards until she found the right one. But what was more amazing than the number of cards my Mom produced from her purse, was the amount of money she saved when her card was scanned. After this experience, I insisted that my Mom get a better card organization system. She has now upgraded to 150 slot business card holder...
Although I like to travel light when I shop, that helps maximize my speed and swiftness as I zig zag through sale racks and grants me more arm space for clothing to try on, I have come to appreciate the deep savings that many of these savings cards can offer. Now I keep a small stack of them in my wallet, but also have placed many of my savings club numbers and frequent flyer accounts on my phone so they are just a few clicks away. I also keep a stack of coupons that I receive in the mail in my purse from places such as Macy's, Dick's Sporting Goods, Banana Republic, Gap, and Bed, Bath & Beyond. Also if you don't want to keep all of the coupons with you, you can leave the stack in the car. A good sale shopper lets the smell of deals lead them to their next location so it is important to be prepared at all times.
One of my favorite places that provides great frequent shopper rewards is Hallmark. In the past few months alone, I have received $15 in coupons on any regular priced items. Although buying full price items goes against my golden rule, I can be persuaded with such large coupon savings.
Gap Inc. (Old Navy, Gap, Banana Republic, Athleta and Piperlime) also have some of the best coupons and rewards for frequent shoppers. They also have numerous double or triple point days which quickly accummulates $10 rewards. In a recession, every little bit helps!
Be sure to also sign up for frequent flyer programs with every airline you fly. These programs don't usually cost money unless you sign up for their credit card offers, which I don't suggest, but offer booking bonuses or other increased mile offers. I was at first skeptical and thought it was a waste of my time to sign up for all these programs especially since now I fly on whatever airline is the cheapest. My favorite airline by far is Midwest Airlines (they offer warm chocolate chip cookies, superior customer service, and fly to many locations in :) Wisconsin) but since moving away from one of their Midwestern hubs of Kansas City, I don't get to fly Midwest as often as I would like. With that being said, many of the different airline companies now co-share their planes and allow you to use different frequent flyer accounts when booking flights. Additionally, some airlines allow you to share your miles with family or friends for fees that are cheaper than the cost of the plane tickets. This definately makes signing up for the frequent flyer programs worth it. Just in the past week I have saved close to a $1,000 by cashing in some of my frequent flyer miles.
By using your coupons, signing up for frequent shopper cards, and enrolling in frequent flyer programs, you will free up your finances for fun and fashionable clothing purchases.
In Shopping Sale Solidarity
Although I like to travel light when I shop, that helps maximize my speed and swiftness as I zig zag through sale racks and grants me more arm space for clothing to try on, I have come to appreciate the deep savings that many of these savings cards can offer. Now I keep a small stack of them in my wallet, but also have placed many of my savings club numbers and frequent flyer accounts on my phone so they are just a few clicks away. I also keep a stack of coupons that I receive in the mail in my purse from places such as Macy's, Dick's Sporting Goods, Banana Republic, Gap, and Bed, Bath & Beyond. Also if you don't want to keep all of the coupons with you, you can leave the stack in the car. A good sale shopper lets the smell of deals lead them to their next location so it is important to be prepared at all times.
One of my favorite places that provides great frequent shopper rewards is Hallmark. In the past few months alone, I have received $15 in coupons on any regular priced items. Although buying full price items goes against my golden rule, I can be persuaded with such large coupon savings.
Gap Inc. (Old Navy, Gap, Banana Republic, Athleta and Piperlime) also have some of the best coupons and rewards for frequent shoppers. They also have numerous double or triple point days which quickly accummulates $10 rewards. In a recession, every little bit helps!
Be sure to also sign up for frequent flyer programs with every airline you fly. These programs don't usually cost money unless you sign up for their credit card offers, which I don't suggest, but offer booking bonuses or other increased mile offers. I was at first skeptical and thought it was a waste of my time to sign up for all these programs especially since now I fly on whatever airline is the cheapest. My favorite airline by far is Midwest Airlines (they offer warm chocolate chip cookies, superior customer service, and fly to many locations in :) Wisconsin) but since moving away from one of their Midwestern hubs of Kansas City, I don't get to fly Midwest as often as I would like. With that being said, many of the different airline companies now co-share their planes and allow you to use different frequent flyer accounts when booking flights. Additionally, some airlines allow you to share your miles with family or friends for fees that are cheaper than the cost of the plane tickets. This definately makes signing up for the frequent flyer programs worth it. Just in the past week I have saved close to a $1,000 by cashing in some of my frequent flyer miles.
By using your coupons, signing up for frequent shopper cards, and enrolling in frequent flyer programs, you will free up your finances for fun and fashionable clothing purchases.
In Shopping Sale Solidarity
Monday, September 14, 2009
Tip of the Day: Check out QVC and the Special Value of the Day
I have to give a big shout out to my Grandma Fredrich for this one. Back in 1988, shortly after my Grandpa had passed away, my Grandma became a frequenter of QVC (short for Quality, Value, and Convenience) to help her fall asleep at night. At first many of us made fun of her because the only things that were ever sold on tv were horrible food dehydrators or Jack Lelane's fruit juicers. It was hard to think that quality products could be sold on tv.
Slowly as the number of gifts under the tree from QVC increased each year, our family was" eating crow" and becoming QVC fans. The most memorable Christmases was when there would be 5 or more identically wrapped and shaped packages that the recipients were told needed to be "opened together". Then we knew we had a "QVC Special Value of the Day" on our hands as my Grandma always said that the price was too good to pass up and reminded all of us how with the mors she bought, the less shipping became.
The UPS man now knew my Grandma by name and they started a burgeoning friendship as he typically delivered a package to her house 3-4 times a week. He also started to become familiar with the QVC specials and often asked her what was too good to pass up this week. Not only did they sell home products, but also amazing jewelry, which I am fortunate was my Grandma's downfall. As I started to wear and use all of my QVC acquisitions, I also became a fan, but it was not until this past April that I became a QVC fanatic.
On my way to Washington, DC for a work conference with my parents (and yes, I am 29 and still travel with my parents, I am not ashamed!) my Mom proposed that we stop at the QVC Studios in West Chester, PA. Although I was a bit skeptical at first, I started to research more and found out that this could be pretty cool. We travelled 4 hours out of our way and arrived at the studios promptly at 8am, although they didn't open until 9, I was insistent that we were the first in line for the studio tour. My Dad was not nearly as thrilled as my Mom and I was, but understood that this was the "motherland" for his family.
The tour, people, and customer service is impeccable and I was able to see that first hand. We also, of course, partook in some in person shopping at the Studio store and then also ventured to one of the 6 QVC outlets in the area. Needless to say, it was a long 11 hour ride back to Indiana as I was jammed up against the window of our car as a result of our increased car load including a jewelry armoire. It was too good of a deal to pass up!
Now, each night before I retire to bed around midnight, I check out www.qvc.com to see the new special value of the day. Although you pay for shipping on all QVC items (unless they are running a special with no shipping) their quality is unmatched and variety is endless. Also be sure to check out if items are on "Easy Pay" and interest free way to split up the cost of the items.
Not only am I forever grateful for having my Grandma in my life for 23 glorious years, but also that she was a trendsetter in introducing her family to a phenomenal shopping venue. Now every time I go online or watch QVC, it is a reminder of all those great family memories and heirlooms that I hope to pass along to my kids someday, in addition to mad shopping skills! OK, off to check the new Special Value.
In Shopping Sale Solidarity
Slowly as the number of gifts under the tree from QVC increased each year, our family was" eating crow" and becoming QVC fans. The most memorable Christmases was when there would be 5 or more identically wrapped and shaped packages that the recipients were told needed to be "opened together". Then we knew we had a "QVC Special Value of the Day" on our hands as my Grandma always said that the price was too good to pass up and reminded all of us how with the mors she bought, the less shipping became.
The UPS man now knew my Grandma by name and they started a burgeoning friendship as he typically delivered a package to her house 3-4 times a week. He also started to become familiar with the QVC specials and often asked her what was too good to pass up this week. Not only did they sell home products, but also amazing jewelry, which I am fortunate was my Grandma's downfall. As I started to wear and use all of my QVC acquisitions, I also became a fan, but it was not until this past April that I became a QVC fanatic.
On my way to Washington, DC for a work conference with my parents (and yes, I am 29 and still travel with my parents, I am not ashamed!) my Mom proposed that we stop at the QVC Studios in West Chester, PA. Although I was a bit skeptical at first, I started to research more and found out that this could be pretty cool. We travelled 4 hours out of our way and arrived at the studios promptly at 8am, although they didn't open until 9, I was insistent that we were the first in line for the studio tour. My Dad was not nearly as thrilled as my Mom and I was, but understood that this was the "motherland" for his family.
The tour, people, and customer service is impeccable and I was able to see that first hand. We also, of course, partook in some in person shopping at the Studio store and then also ventured to one of the 6 QVC outlets in the area. Needless to say, it was a long 11 hour ride back to Indiana as I was jammed up against the window of our car as a result of our increased car load including a jewelry armoire. It was too good of a deal to pass up!
Now, each night before I retire to bed around midnight, I check out www.qvc.com to see the new special value of the day. Although you pay for shipping on all QVC items (unless they are running a special with no shipping) their quality is unmatched and variety is endless. Also be sure to check out if items are on "Easy Pay" and interest free way to split up the cost of the items.
Not only am I forever grateful for having my Grandma in my life for 23 glorious years, but also that she was a trendsetter in introducing her family to a phenomenal shopping venue. Now every time I go online or watch QVC, it is a reminder of all those great family memories and heirlooms that I hope to pass along to my kids someday, in addition to mad shopping skills! OK, off to check the new Special Value.
In Shopping Sale Solidarity
Sunday, September 13, 2009
A Shopping Sabbatical
Two and a half short months ago, I was helping a friend move from New York to Florida. While on this trip, more than stopping at national landmarks, I was insistent that we stop at every Banana Republic on I-95 down the East Coast. After our third stop and my second set of returns, my friend challenged me to engage in a "shopping sabbatical" with the challenge that I would never make it a month without purchasing one piece of clothing. As I started to frantically add up the recent credit card bills I received, I realized that a shopping sabbatical was exactly what I needed. Also, I am not one to walk away from a challenge, so I agreed.
In an interesting way, this experience has helped me to quell my shopping urges, but also has allowed me to hone in on my unique shopping skills. As a way to "get my shopping fix" over the past few months, I have offered to assist friends in their shopping excursions. It is amazing how not spending other's money can be theraputic. Through these experiences, it has been brought to my attention that I have unique skills in the shopping arena. Now please don't mistake me for a Midwestern Rebecca Bloomwood from the Shopaholic series (of which I am a HUGE fan) but I am more of a working recession woman's Rebecca, always trying to be on the top of fashion trends while also searching out a deal.
In this blog, I hope to share some of my personal tips and thoughts on how you can achieve true shopping bliss while not breaking the bank.
In an interesting way, this experience has helped me to quell my shopping urges, but also has allowed me to hone in on my unique shopping skills. As a way to "get my shopping fix" over the past few months, I have offered to assist friends in their shopping excursions. It is amazing how not spending other's money can be theraputic. Through these experiences, it has been brought to my attention that I have unique skills in the shopping arena. Now please don't mistake me for a Midwestern Rebecca Bloomwood from the Shopaholic series (of which I am a HUGE fan) but I am more of a working recession woman's Rebecca, always trying to be on the top of fashion trends while also searching out a deal.
In this blog, I hope to share some of my personal tips and thoughts on how you can achieve true shopping bliss while not breaking the bank.
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