Time to Shop

The holiday season is almost here. It’s the time of year to share joy and love with all of your family and friends. Then January comes, and you’re left holding the bill. Yikes! When did joy and love get so expensive? Read on for some smart shopping and saving strategies to rein in holiday spending. You’ll spend January cherishing holiday memories instead of counting your pennies.

Make a shopping list.

Santa makes a list, and it seems to be working for him. Write down the names of everyone who will be receiving a gift from you. Come up with one or two gift ideas per person, and buy only those items. Affordable and thoughtful should be your decision making guidelines.

Beware of Black Friday.

Have you ever walked into a store meaning to buy just one item, but you walk back out with a whole cartload? That’s exactly what the stores want you to do on the day after Thanksgiving. Try shopping in the weeks surrounding the big day. You can stay focused on your shopping list, and you won’t have to combat crazy crowds.

Do your homework before you shop.

Get to know the store policies that can save you time and money. Take advantage of price matching offers to consolidate your shopping into one stop. You can ask the cashier how long you have to request a price adjustment, just in case the price drops next week. Check store websites for printable coupons and online promotional codes. Don’t forget to look in the clearance section; smart shoppers know that the perfect gift might just be last season’s merchandise.

Most importantly, keep in mind the reason for the season. Remember the deeper meaning behind holiday traditions by celebrating and sharing with family and friends. Spending time together to make memories is both inexpensive and priceless. So this year, get ready to shed some of the holiday stress while keeping your heart (and your wallet) full.