I'm a little embarrased to admit this, but last week I was watching an episode of Dr. Drew's Lifechangers that I had recorded on the DVR. His guest was Kate Gosselin, formerly of "John & Kate Plus 8". Were you aware that she writes a blog about coupons on a website called Coupon Cabin? What is "Coupon Cabin" you might ask. It is just one of many websites designed to provide you with multiple savings opportunities. It includes printable coupons for you to bring with you into a clothing or grocery store, online coupon codes, and "freebies". I highly suggest you at least take a glance. Who doesn't want or need to save money these days anyway?
Before I became a SAHM, I would have NEVER used coupons. I would have snickered at the idea and wouldn't have thought twice. I guess you can say that I have become wiser with age. Or maybe cheaper. Probably a little of both if truth be told. If you can save a few bucks here & there that's more dinners out or more family nights out to ice cream at Coldstone!
Just this morning, I was at Joanne Fabrics purchasing supplies for a jewelry project I am working on. I carefully selected two yards of black crushed velvet (swanky, I know) and a few packages of beads. When it was my turn to head over to the register, I whipped out my handy I-Phone and started a search for a "printable" coupon on the internet. Several stores including: Joanne's, Michaels, Old Navy, and Famous Footwear will scan your coupon right off of your phone! The catch is it usually has to be the printable type so they can scan the barcode off it.
Bingo! I found multiple coupons that could be redeemed on my purchase right then and there! I saved 50% off on my fabric and 40% off of another item for a total savings at Joanne's of $7.00! That is a grande drink and a breakfast sandwich at Starbucks! Can you tell where my mind is? Yes, I have another obsession and it's called Starbucks.
A great tip one of my friends told me a few months ago is at Bed, Bath & Beyond. This store frequently mails out 20% off coupons. Save the coupons, and print one off of the computer before you go in to make a purchase. Bed Bath & Beyond actually allows you to stack up your coupons! (Bring in more than one and use on the same purchase= stacking) That could potentially be a huge savings with just a small amount of footwork involved if you are making a huge purchase like a Dyson vacuum or something!
Restaurants are slightly trickier in finding deals, but they are out there. Did you know if you live near a large city, you can utilize our friend "Google" by searching for nights kids eat free? Places like IHOP, Denny's and Chevy's offer a free dinner to any child accompanying an adult paying full price for their entree. Here is a link to one website I have used, that works! *This website also has some kids eat free deals in smaller locations as well. http://mykidseatfree.com/welcome.asp
Just think. If you put all of the money you saved over the course of a month into a jar to keep track, you could potentially save a chunk of change my friends. I might have to try that. It might be a fun game for the family. Is my new habit truly worth annoying the customer behind me in line, while I am searching on my phone for that 20% coupon somewhere?
One last tip today. Make the cashier or sales associate your friend at the places you like to shop at. A smile can go a long way. There have been times that I have gone up to the register without a coupon, but I know that the store typically has them. I will just simply ask them if they have any coupons that I don't have. Shoot, I have even had other customers overhear me asking and they will give me their "extra" coupons! Sometimes if I print a coupon out beforehand I will print two, one for me and one for a friend.
I would love to hear from you if you have any stories of savings, or any stores that might have a smokin' deal I have missed out on. If you have any questions, shoot me a message and I will be happy to try and help.
Embrace Your Sparkle,
B
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