7 Tips for Shopping on Black Friday and Beyond this Holiday Season!

As a Wardrobe Consultant and owner of Closet Fly, I do a lot of personal shopping for and with my clients.  But many business owners will be fighting the crowds on their own this holiday season. So here are some much needed tips on how to shop smart during the rush: 1. Know what you want. Ah, the key to all things in life. Well, you’d be surprised at how many people don’t shop with a list during the holidays. Even with a list, things can get confusing. So, cozy up with some hot tea and spend a good hour looking up gifts in store catalogs, online, and in magazines. This will inspire you to create a list for all those on your list and it will give you ideas for yourself!  2. Research sales.  Days before you plan to shop, go online, look at advertisements in the paper, and call the store. Many associates are willing put items aside for you if you know what you want and call before the day of the sale. Ask if they do pre-sales where you buy the item over the phone at the sale price and just pick it up the day of the sale. You can even ask for the store manager and get his/her tips on shopping in their store. 3. Shop with a list.  Don’t just write down what you’re getting, but also write down where you’re going to buy it, the phone number of the store, and the store’s special hours of operation (a spreadsheet works great for this).  Treat it like efficient grocery shopping or running errands; start with the store where you can get the most checked off your list (a department store for example), and map out your route in regards to traffic or rush hour. 4. Keep a map of the mall with you before you shop in order to plan out parking, elevators (if you have kids in strollers), and restaurants (because you will get hungry).  Use valet parking if it is available. It will be worth the money rather than waiting in traffic. 5. Set a time limit. Give yourself a couple hours in one large store, then hit a couple smaller shops and take a break. Keep a few snacks in your purse and drape it around your body for more hands free movement, but leave your coat in the car.  6. Start early and wear comfortable shoes.  There are few ways to avoid long lines during this time of year, but go with a partner who will stand in line while you shop or hire a professional shopper who will shop for you. Try to beat the crowds by shopping during slow times, usually around store opening, late afternoon, or dinner time.   7. Be Flexible. Sometimes, that perfect gift you had in mind for your client or friend is just not available or is sold out. If you can keep the intention and meaning behind the gift, it will be easier to let go of the material aspect of it and you'll save yourself some unnecessary stress. Remember to shop on line if you get in a jam. Shop locally and help out fellow biznik's! Good luck!  And if you have any questions about Girl’s Night In-Style parties, dressing for your body type, and buying clothes or accessories as gifts this holiday season, please call or email me anytime for some free advice! Fashionably yours, Mayna Sgaramella 2008-11-26T00:08:47Z

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7-tips-for-shopping-on-black-friday-and-beyond-this-holiday-season

2008-11-28T15:40:17Z

Despite Cyber Monday frenzy, many people still choose to brave the crowds for great After Thanksgiving sales. If you can't avoid the malls this year, here are some tips from a professional shopper and stylist to make your life easier.

7 Tips for Shopping on Black Friday and Beyond this Holiday Season!

2009-02-24T09:47:24Z