▎❝ How to spend blessed Black Friday. ❞

Blessed Black Friday, the holiest day of deals in the shopping calendar, is a holiday that everyone should celebrate regardless of your religious affiliation or your feelings about the Christmas season. My family is Roman Catholic and so we do celebrate Christmas but even if we weren’t religious, you can bet that I wouldn’t be missing these kinds of savings! Black Friday is for everyone and everything, not just specifically holiday shopping—though it’s always nice to find great gifts for your loved ones at amazing prices. However, as with all things, there are nuances here to not only ensure you stay safe but also get the best bang for your buck.

I love Black Friday but I never actually go anywhere. I shop online but I don’t wait for Cyber Monday either, I simply do my Black Friday shopping and then look at Cyber Monday as an extra day to get anything I either may have forgotten or couldn’t decide on sooner. Cyber Monday is also a good backup savings holiday for when you can’t make the madness of Black Friday shopping. I know that I do most of my shopping online and so Cyber Monday is supposed to be the day for that but I often found that the internet didn’t stop stores from having Black Friday sales on their websites and often times by Cyber Monday, all the sizes and colors that I needed were sold out. Basically, I haven’t known many online retailers to wait until Cyber Monday to get in on the action, so why should we? They want the Black Friday deals just as much as brick and mortars. This is why you don’t want to wait, but make sure you check your favorite stores anyway to see which day is advertised as having bigger price reductions because it varies.

Below I will be sharing some of my tips and tricks to how I shop on Blessed Black Friday and like an athlete, I train for this all year! I don’t know how much of this is common knowledge or isn’t but this is my process and my experience. I will be writing this from the context of online shopping simply because I don’t want to encourage anyone to go out and engage in the mayhem physically when they can do just as well of a job shopping safely from home. I don’t know if anyone else remembers the stampede at Walmart that cost lives but I do, so stay home and stay safe—you can still get what you need without risking life and limb! If you think I’m being too dramatic, you can read about Black Friday injuries and deaths here from the New York Post. Please remember your safety isn’t worth that pair of 50% off shoes.

Clip those coupons

We’ve all heard the term “Coupon Clipping” and it sounds more difficult to do when you’re shopping online but it’s actually easier in many ways. These days we have browser extensions that we can add on for free to help us automatically find the coupons, codes, and deals that we’re looking for to ensure we save the most money. If you have not heard of these browser extensions, you are missing out! I am in no way sponsored or affiliated with any of these types of companies but I personally use Honey and have for the past few years because I hate sale code hell.

How does it work? You look through the different money saving and coupon finding browser extensions for your search engine until you find one that you like. Once you do, you install it and it should offer to check for coupon codes for you when you’re in checkout—at least that’s how Honey works for me and I use Google Chrome for reference. Usually Honey always finds me at least one coupon to use even if it’s only for 5% off of an item but typically only if an item is not already marked down for a sale. I have also found that department stores offer the best deals through these types of browser extensions. I’m assuming this is due to partnerships and such but it doesn’t matter, it’s saving me money.

Also, if you can, consider using payment methods that offer cash back or cash in on previous cash back. It doesn’t matter if you use a credit card so long as you pay it off quickly, you’ll still get credit for using it. If you’ve already been using your credit cards and reward systems throughout the year, check all the rewards you’ve accumulated before Black Friday and Cyber Monday to see what you have available to use. Remember that using your rewards and coupons on top of deals that are already lowered will mean even more savings. I always try to save all my gift cards for days like Black Friday and Prime Day because I have a set amount on the gift card and I can get twice as many things if I wait until a day where prices in general are lower. I encourage you to do the same if you can and get a good financial plan for yourself before Black Friday arrives so you can simply focus on shopping while understanding your budget.

Department store deals

I have found that based on my experience, it’s the department stores that offer the best Black Friday deals. Why? Well, because they market most heavily during the holiday season and so with that influx of customers, they’re willing to be more reasonable with their prices since they’re selling more goods. Think about it, Macy’s get an extraordinary amount of publicity from their Thanksgiving Day Parade—as they should—and shoppers rush right out to their store even if they haven’t bought anything there since last Christmas when they bought Aunt Peggy that faux fur muff to go with her winter boots. The return of seasonal customers is bigger for department stores and as such, they adjust their prices accordingly. This is a generalization and of course not all department stores abide by this motto but again, I’ve found this to be a pattern.

In addition to having more coupons and offering more savings, department stores also offer a higher quality of goods in many cases such as middle range designer brands like Michael Kors, Ralph Lauren, and Kate Spade to name a few. Having brands like this is not only good for those of us who appreciate designer fashion but it also adds to the type of craftsmanship these stores are selling to their customers. Michael Kors is a designer that might be considered expensive to many department store shoppers but on sale, it’s a steal for the type of bag that you’ll be getting because it will last! Whose dad doesn’t want to open a nice classy Ralph Lauren sweater under the tree? These brands are familiar, decent quality, and affordable at most department stores at Christmas time. They pride themselves on competing to have the largest amount of affordable merchandise to present buyers. Their competition means your win.

Department stores are also good at rewarding their customers with their own points system. Anyone who shops Khol’s and is familiar with “Khol’s Cash” will understand what I mean but basically, you get rewards for shopping at these types of stores that you can use for something else with your next purchase. Some would argue it’s a bit of a racket to keep you coming back but during the holiday season, they can be super helpful with all the gift shopping that needs to be done. Department stores also usually have fitting rooms and other amenities that not every other store has so it’s worth mentioning especially if you prefer to shop in person. Also try to hit lesser known or more regional department stores like; Belk, Dillards, Boscov’s, etc because they tend to keep inventory quicker and offer the same kinds of deals that bigger brands like Macy’s, JC Penny, and Khol’s do. Even if these stores are not local, you can shop them online.

Other stores like Forever21 and Victoria’s Secret are not traditional department stores but offer many different items both in store and online during the holiday season. If it’s a store you would visit at the mall but you don’t want to get caught in the Black Friday flurry, you can still shop your favorite stores from the comfort of your home using their website and all without missing the savings! Their user-friendly websites facilitate seamless browsing, allowing you to explore collections and sales at your own pace. Plus, many of these retailers provide exclusive online deals that you won’t want to miss!

Cart if off

When we are shopping in person, we have the luxury of placing items in our cart and hauling them around with us to make sure they aren’t stolen by another swiping shopper but with online buying, it is much different. One thing that I always do is I start working on my cart much sooner than Black Friday. Sydney, what does this mean? It means that I will go out to a website I plan to buy from and I will fill my cart with items that I intend to purchase based on my budget but I won’t actually buy them—not yet.

As a visual person, it helps me to see what I’m getting all at once before I purchase my items. This is because I often will buy full outfits for Christmas gifts and I need to make sure everything in my cart matches for whomever it’s being given too. Seeing things side by side makes the shopping process so much easier on me and I can really take the time I need to whittle down my bulk order. Methods like this also work if you’re naturally indecisive and can’t decide if your mother would like the black pants or the navy ones better—one change and you’ll have to start over making a whole other look!

And so I leave the items I plan to buy in my cart for a long time—sometimes even a full week leading up to Black Friday so that it’s all ready for me to buy but I haven’t checked out because I’m waiting for the actual sales to kick in and the prices to drop in my cart. Then, all I have to do is press the button and place my order which saves me from having to do all my shopping the day of when things are flying off the metaphorical rack and the sizes I need are disappearing quicker than I can snatch!

I get the deal and I get it quicker than everyone else before things sell out because it’s already waiting for me to buy. Also keep in mind that if you shop in an incognito browser or something, it will delete everything in your cart if you click off. I will just leave my cart up in a regular tab and not touch it till the day of but be careful you don’t accidentally dump your list. Don’t forget to buy the items you’ve been saving in your cart as quickly as possible on Black Friday before your things sell out! You’re getting it ready in advance for a reason—this is not a drill, people!

Everybody loves Ebay

If you have not already read my post about buying designer online, I will link it here because it includes detailed tips on online buying whether it be for luxury fashion or not—the same tips still apply. The biggest take away from that article is the use of wish lists and how you can add things to them and potentially receive offers from sellers that are lower than the listing price—this doesn’t mean there’s an issue with the item, it means the seller wants it sold as soon as possible and you showed interest. This is super important for online shopping and can be utilized during Black Friday or any other major gift giving occasion such as Christmas or birthdays. Sellers are obviously more motivated to sell during this time.

Another topic that I covered in that post was items labeled “NWT” meaning “new with tags” and “NWOT” which means “new without tags.” These are important distinctions because I find new items that have never been worn (often with their original tags and boxing) on Ebay for a fraction of the department store or brand price. You could find a Karl Lagerfeld handbag NWT on Ebay much cheaper than you would if you either bought through Lagerfeld’s website or one of their affiliated department stores. Always keep in mind that just because you’re buying second hand doesn’t mean that you’re always buying used, it can simply mean buying from a third party seller rather than an actual store. Brands like Tahari retail for over $400 but you can find it new on Ebay for under $50. Still new, just cheaper and not from an outlet.

If you want the department store brands without the hassle—or really just any particular brand without the hassle, search for it on Ebay and see if you can find a better deal but remember to use “NWT” or “NWOT” in your search like; “Kate Spade Handbag NWT”. Keep a watch over your item because it will tell you if it’s currently in someone else’s cart and if it is, snatch it fast before the other buyer gets it out from underneath of you! Ebay is different from department stores in that most of their items are one of a kind or only with one in stock (unless otherwise mentioned) so you only get one shot to get the thing you want unlike if you were buying from a store selling multiple goods of the same thing.

One of a kind gifts

If you are looking for one of a kind gifts or anything homemade, I recommend Etsy, the place of all things crafty. I know that I reference this website a lot when talking about designer fashion and buying second hand clothing but that’s only a small part of their market. Etsy, itself, is meant for artisans and crafters to sell their signature and hand made merchandise in virtual storefronts. This includes things like painters, sculptures, vases, jewelry, and even things for your home such as candles and decor.

Etsy is much more than a platform for vintage finds; it serves as a vibrant online community where artisans, crafters, and makers can showcase and sell their signature, handmade merchandise through their own virtual storefronts. This means that when you shop on Etsy, you are not just purchasing a product, but you are also supporting independent creators who pour their passion, talent, and ingenuity into their work.

The range of items available on Etsy is truly astounding and caters to a variety of tastes and preferences. You can find beautiful handcrafted paintings that add a splash of color and personality to a dreary living space, intricate sculptures that can serve as conversation starters, and stunning vases that are perfect for displaying fresh flowers with a personal touch. Furthermore, there’s a fantastic selection of jewelry crafted with skill and creativity, making it easy to find that perfect piece to express individuality or to gift to someone special. If you like gemstone jewelry, check out their estate jewelry like I do! Etsy is where I’ve gotten my best priced jewelry pieces at unthinkable bargains.

In addition to artistic creations, Etsy also offers a wide range of unique goods that can enhance your day to day life. You can discover delightful candles that create a warm and calming atmosphere, as well as unique decor items that reflect your personal style and aesthetic. Whether you’re looking for thoughtfully made gifts for friends and family or items to adorn your own home, Etsy is a treasure trove of creativity and artisanal craftsmanship waiting to be explored! So, if you want to find something truly special and distinctive, Etsy is the place to browse for inspiration and quality handmade products! I’ve also found many Etsy sellers to be very keen on offering gift personalization.

Be sure to check all of the information on Etsy listing because some sellers will offer bulk shipping or give automatic discounts on other items in their shop if you purchase multiple items. This is great for gifting season when you’re trying to buy for multiple people. These sellers will usually have a note about this in the item description or their shop page, so be sure to check and bundle if you can!

Don’t get left in the cold

The holiday season often brings a whirlwind of activities that can easily leave anyone feeling overwhelmed. Amidst the festive chaos, it’s all too easy to get sidetracked from your holiday goals, whether that means finding the perfect gifts, planning gatherings, or simply enjoying the spirit of the season. If you’re in a pinch and facing the pressure of last-minute shopping, don’t despair—there are solutions at your fingertips. One of the most effective ways to regain control of your holiday shopping is by turning to Amazon.

Amazon’s vast inventory makes it a treasure trove for finding gifts for everyone on your list, from family members to friends and colleagues. With just a few clicks, you can browse countless options, ensuring that you don’t miss out on that special gift for a loved one. Moreover, the convenience of Amazon’s speedy shipping means you can have your items delivered right to your door in a matter of days, or even hours in some cases. This allows you to avoid the hustle and bustle of crowded stores while still wrapping up your holiday shopping in time.

In addition to its remarkable selection and fast shipping, Amazon also offers fair pricing, which can ease the financial burden that often accompanies the holiday season. By taking advantage of deals, discounts, and Prime membership benefits, you can find quality gifts that won’t break the bank. So, if you find yourself overwhelmed by the seasonal madness, remember that with a little planning and a quick visit to Amazon, you can turn your last-minute shopping into a smooth and enjoyable experience, allowing you to reclaim your holiday spirit and meet your goals. Less stress, less mess!

Shop small, shop local

We often forget that Black Friday sales aren’t just for big names and brands. There are plenty of small local businesses that could benefit from the sales now more than ever so even though I said stay home and be careful, if you know of a nearby store that isn’t going to be very crowded, by all means, go! These businesses are tiny in comparison to the department store giants and need to support too. A bookstore, a thrift store, an antique store—it doesn’t matter! You might even find them less busy than usual because all the shoppers are elsewhere in search of broader pastures.

Visiting these small businesses not only provides you with the chance to discover one-of-a-kind items but also fosters a sense of community. You might find that, unlike the bustling megastores, these local retailers offer a more intimate shopping experience, allowing for personal interaction and tailored service. Additionally, shopping locally means that your dollars go further in supporting the economy in your area, creating a ripple effect that benefits everyone. This Black Friday, consider stepping out to support the little guys; their resilience and creativity deserve recognition, and your patronage can make all the difference in keeping their doors open for years to come—many are family owned. So, head to your favorite local shop—you might just find a once in a lifetime treasure to place under the tree for someone special.

Go forth & shop

Go forth and shop, my friend, and do it knowing that the spirit of good deals is behind you! As I always say, I hope that some of these tips were helpful as you navigate the bustling aisles and endless online sales. There’s something truly exhilarating about hunting for jewels, especially when you uncover a bargain that feels like a small victory. However, my enthusiasm for a good deal comes with a reminder: while the thrill of shopping can be invigorating, it should never come at the expense of your safety or well-being.

As we approach the chaos of Black Friday and the holiday season, I implore you to prioritize yourself. The world can feel overwhelming at times, and it’s easy to get swept up in the anxiety of the crowd or the pressure of finding the best price. Remember that these times should be exciting and joyous, not filled with angst and stress. So, whether you’re in-store or browsing online, keep your wits about you, be respectful of others, and take a moment to breathe. The best deals are out there waiting for you, and shopping should add to your holiday spirit, not detract from it. Enjoy your adventures in shopping, but always do so with mindfulness and care!

This will be my last post before turkey time so Happy Thanksgiving to anyone celebrating it! Wishing you a lovely holiday full of thanks and warmth as we head into the holiday season.