Oh Black Friday. Thinking about it gives me a mix of fear + anxiety and excitement. On one hand, it is a totally crazy day and can be incredibly overwhelming/stressful. On the other, I’ve gotten some of my best (ever) deals on that day which makes it completely worthwhile. You just have to be prepared – and ready to rise to the challenge and tackle the crazy. This year, my mom and I will be hitting up the Cape Cod Mall and the Hyannis TJ Maxx, and I’ve compiled some tips + tricks for you to help you have your best shopping day possible. (Elbows out, ladies!)
- Pack a bag (but not a heavy one!) Nothing is worse than being hungry/thirsty when you are trying to get down to business. I always, always pack a bottle of water, gum, and a Luna bar or two.
- Plan ahead. Make a list of what you are looking for, by section of the store, if possible. For example: when I am shopping at TJ Maxx, I think about going to the runway section for the designer party dress I want to buy myself; back to the home section for gifts for friends + ornaments / Christmas decor for my own apartment; and then snacks, stocking stuffers + hostess gifts up by the checkout. Mapping things out by department ensures you can get everything you need.
- Dress smart. A friend of mine told me she wears tight running clothes (think leggings and a form fitting tank) so that she can try everything on over her clothes. I’ve never done this but it is sort of brilliant, no? Also, I always stick to ballet flats as they are comfy + easily slip on and off if I need to try something on.
- Stock up on the things that everyone will like. I load up on hostess gifts (think candles, peppermint bark, pretty ornaments.) Having pretty gifts on hand (I pre-wrap them) makes the holidays a little bit easier and less stressful, and these types of things are always on super-sale during Black Friday.
- Don’t forget to shop for yourself, too! Obviously gifts are the focus here but last weekend I was out and about and found a sequin party dress for $79.99 that I’d seen on Shopbop for $600 last year. So, yeah… sometimes you just have to!
- Download a game or two to your phone. Lines are going to be unavoidable. I personally love the NY Times Crossword app or Covet Fashion.
This post was sponsored by TJX through their partnership with POPSUGAR. While I was compensated to write a post about TJX #TheGifter, all opinions are my own.
Good tips for holiday shopping in general! The malls get crazy before Christmas.
Nice list. You are brave. I never venture out, but I’m not much into buying for more than parents, husband, and pets.
So cute – I love this! Great ideas!
x abigail, the fabulous life of a natural disaster
I much prefer cyber monday. All the great sales from the comfort of my own home. Plus, if you go into the stores weeks ahead of time, you can try on things you like to see how they fit while avoiding the crowds!
http://scallopedandbows.blogspot.ca
I think I’ll just wait for cyber Monday. Black Friday is definitely way to crazy for me. 🙂
Good tip about the snacks. I might add “force yourself to eat something before you go out”, especially if you’re hitting the early bird sales. A few years ago, I did the 4&5am sales, and passed out right as I got to the register! In all of the excitement of finding great deals for gifts, I didn’t take care of myself by realizing the change in routine. Don’t shop (even for clothes) on an empty stomach! 🙂
wearing tight running clothes is the best advice ever. will try this year!
& Pretty Things
Very smart! I try to avoid Black Friday shopping but occasionally I go out around 3pm and the stores are empty 🙂 That’s my new tradition.
http://www.confessionsoftheglitterati.com/
I’m going to the Cape for the holiday too! Albeit a little further so I think I’m going for cyber Monday instead.
Rebecca {at} Preppy Panache