December 12, 2009
I know you are all very busy this week so I will keep this post short and sweet.
The time is getting short to shop for gifts and by now you know I think you should only give gifts you can actually afford, in other words, if you don’t have cash give a personal gift certificate or even re-gift something you already have but don’t go in to debt! For personal gift ideas read the post: Thoughtful Gifts that are Free.
I know you will still be purchasing at least some gifts, so be wise as you shop. Shop with your newspaper and a cup of hot chocolate in hand and pick up the phone. Really. Look through the ads to see if you can find the toy or other gift you are looking for on sale. Often the same item is on sale in several locations. Find the least expensive. Now, call the store nearest to you who may also carry that item and ask if they price match. Many, many stores will honor the sale prices at other stores. Now, take that ad to the store nearest you who will price match to purchase the item. You just have to show them the ad and you get the sale price at the store in your own neighborhood. You save money not only on the item but also on gas and, no shipping charges either.
Price matching is not only a trick to use when buying gifts but also foods and treats. Many large pharmacy chains will price match and they do carry candy, baking ingredients, and even breakfast cereals. So ask everywhere you shop if they will honor the ads from other stores.What have you got to loose?
