Getting Those Holiday Deals

By Tia Cristy

Getting Those Holiday Deals

I’ve gotten a few questions over the last few weeks regarding holiday shopping. Not just inquiring about the perfect gifts for him or her, but what’s the best strategy on finding those holiday deals.

Four options come to mind.

Shop all year ‘round

This is, personally, my favorite. I hit the clearance racks after each season. I tend to stay away from anything trendy when it comes to clothes shopping for others. Remember how fast palazzo pants come in and out of style? There’s no guarantee that something you get on the sale rack will be in-fashion next year. However, staying within ‘basics’ is usually a homerun because you can feel good knowing got that perfect little black dress for a fraction of the original price.  

Black Friday

Of course, it’s well known the Friday after we give thanks for all we have can be the time to score deals that make us even more thankful. Black Friday traditions can feel like a holiday all their own. But in the past several years, I’ve been reminded of my elementary days where upper classmen should be yelling don’t run in the hallways to all the young tots wildly trying to get to their next class. But instead of a Safety sporting a plastic badge and whistle, a young store manager toting a ring of keys has to practically jump out of the way after unlocking the doors of a superstore in the wee hours of the morning. I can’t help but reflect on when my parents would say, ‘don’t grab… there’s plenty enough to go ‘round’, but sadly, that’s not usually the case when there’s only two available. Doorbusters have a way of making some folks forget human values. So be aware of life-lessons; no sale is worth compromising your humanity.

Small Business Saturday

The latest and perhaps the greatest way to go shopping during the holiday season is showing patronage to the small business owners. Sales and deals are always to be found. But beyond that, you’ll find lots of ‘one-of-a-kinds’ for that special someone that appreciates being unique. Small businesses are usually more apt to help the customers with suggestions, returns and overall customer service since they rely heavily on recommendations. Small businesses can also offer online shopping for customers that aren’t quite local. Momentum highlights some of the best small businesses to check out for Small Business Saturday… or any other day of the week.

Cyber Monday

Curling up on the couch with your laptop and a cup of tea can be the least hassle-free in most cases. Cyber Monday’s sales can offer specials as good as Black Friday, however you need to be quick on the ‘complete order’ button. There have been several times where I’ve filled up the cyber cart, clicked to pay and then half the merchandise is no longer available. But once I got the trick down of making several purchases throughout crossing off my Christmas list, I was pretty happy with the results—that includes the shipping options.

So when is the best time to get the shopping deals?

It’s really trial and error. And it has the ability to change year in and year out. But these are my top choices for getting the shopping list done without ending up at the mall the day before Christmas. Happy shopping and here’s to a safe and happy holiday season!

Tia, and TipsfromTia.com  is trying to keep you looking good and
feeling good, from the inside out. If you’ve got a problem or a tip email me! Be sure to Like and share on Facebook or Follow on Twitter or Instagram.