Tips for Amazon Prime Day and Other Online Sales Events

You need to start Christmas shopping this week. Yes, it is only the middle of October. But, trust me, you are not going to want to miss out on the major deals. Experts are anticipating this year to be a digital shopping first holiday season. And they expect consumers to shop earlier.

According to a recent survey by Convey, “Shoppers are planning to shop earlier and mostly online, and they’re conscious of COVID’s impact on retailers […]

• Nearly 4 in 10 consumers (39%) will start holiday shopping earlier this year, while 44% say COVID will have no impact on when they begin their gift-buying.

• 8 in 10 shoppers (82%) will do most of their holiday shopping online – and nearly 1 in 3 (30%) will do ALL of it online.”

The bad news is that they are expecting popular items to run out earlier than ever and major delays with shipping.

The good news is that they are starting holiday sales NOW. Specifically, this week.

Amazon Prime Days will take place October 13th – 14th (Tuesday-Wednesday). If you are an Amazon Prime member, you can take advantage of huge savings that are as good or better than what you would typically get on Black Friday or Cyber Monday.

Plus, other retailers are running major sales to compete with Amazon. Good Morning America explains, “From Walmart kicking things off with its Big Save event on Oct. 11 to Amazon Prime Day and Target Deal Days on Oct. 13 and Oct. 14, everyone will have an opportunity to get a head start on holiday shopping with deals galore.”

For those smart moms wanting to get a jump on their Christmas shopping and save money, here are 5 tips to get the best deals during Amazon Prime Day.

Make a List. Check It Twice.

Amazon Prime Day is exciting, but don’t let your excitement cause you to buy stuff you don’t need. It kinda defeats the purpose of saving money if you blow it all. Instead, make a list and check it twice. Expect to find great deals on appliances, smart devices, home goods, and toys.

Use Price Comparison Tools

With some many other retailers competing for sales on Amazon Prime Day, you absolutely need to do some price checks before purchasing anything. If you are using your phone, use a price comparison app. If you are shopping from your computer, use a web browser extension from Rakuten or Retail Me Not, to see instant price comparisons of products on various sites.

Download Retail Apps

Download the Amazon app. This is one of the best ways to find the best deals on Amazon Prime Day. On the app, you can see sneak peeks of upcoming deals and sign up for alerts when items you are interested in go on sale. You’ll receive a push notification when the price drops.

Additionally, download the apps for your other favorite online retailers. Walmart and Target will also offer special app-only deals and notifications.

Talk to Your Amazon Alexa

If you have any Amazon Alexa enabled devices, you can save even more money. Simply say, “Alexa, what are my Prime Day deals?” to see what special sales are available just for using this feature.

Buy Online, Pick Up In-Store

If you shop for Christmas gifts during Amazon Prime Day, shipping shouldn’t be an issue. There will be plenty of time for gifts to arrive and shipping is included for Prime members. However, if you shop the sales at other retailers, choose the buy online, pick up in-store option to save money on shipping, and ensure you get the items sooner rather than later.

Happy shopping! Let us know about the best deals you find!

Why You Should Shop Your Favorite Stores Online While Stuck at Home

Listen. COVID-19 is scary. As soon as you turn on the news, the body count goes up. We are practicing social distancing and staying inside, but we don’t know how long this will go on. Non-essential workers have been sent home. Thousands (upon thousands) of people have lost their jobs. It’s serious.

I want you to know that I know how serious it is before I dive into today’s talk. All of us have heightened emotions, and we are quick to react. I don’t want anyone who reads this blog to think I am callous or oblivious. I am very (very) aware of the danger. I live in New York. I have a job that could disappear at any minute. I’m not trying to be insensitive. Just the opposite.

That’s why today, I am telling you why you should shop your favorite stores online while stuck at home.

Experts say online shopping is permissible and encouraged

Not only have experts said that it is safe to shop online (especially if you opt for no-contact delivery and sanitize after receiving products), but it is also encouraged. Business Insider suggests, “Consumers don't need to feel shameful about buying goods online, especially from small businesses currently hit by the blow of temporary closures. [Treiber of RevTrax] says, ‘In this environment, consumers should support any of their favorite retailers that may be suffering from forced store closures due to coronavirus.’”

While big-box stores like Walmart and Target are still open because they sell essentials, retailers that primarily sell clothing have shut their doors and are only making money through online sales.

You’ll help the economy

The economy is really struggling as a result of all the closures. And, while I am hopeful it will receive a big boost from all of us who have been cooped inside once the doors of our favorite retailers reopen, we can still do something to help the economy today. Vanessa Friedman, for the NY Times, writes, “After 9/11, George W. Bush urged everyone to go shopping. At first it seemed silly. But what he was really saying was: Redistribute the wealth. Get the economy going again.”

You’ll help small businesses stay in business

After the last recession, we saw stores we loved close up. I’m afraid we will see that after this is all over to. One way to help prevent your favorite stores from shuttering is to support them now. Consider purchasing gift cards to use at later dates or ordering products online.

You’ll help retail survive

Finally, when you get an email from a retailer that is advertising huge discounts, see it for what it really is. It is a cry for HELP! As Friedman explains, “This is not 25-40-60 percent off time. Except it is, because this is crisis time. The stores are closed. […] And because online sales are the only source of revenue they have to keep their employees paid and their business afloat.” The purchases you make are helping retail and employees (like myself) stay in business.

I’m not asking you to spend what you don’t have or to make poor choices (especially if you aren’t sure about your own income), but if you do have the ability to shop your favorite fashion retailers, now is the time.

Presidents Day Sales Everyone Needs to Take Advantage Of

After the Christmas sales, did you know that the best time of the year to find great sales is over Presidents Day weekend? That is this weekend! So today, I am giving you the perfect excuse to buy some of those big-budget items you didn’t get under the Christmas tree.

Electronics

Presidents Day Weekend is known for offering big sales on electronics, including computers, televisions, Apple watches, and AirPods.

Appliances

Likewise, Presidents Day Weekend offers huge discounts on home goods and furniture. Real Simple reports, “An analysis by personal finance site WalletHub found that the average discount on appliances during Black Friday, one of the top shopping days of the year, is 30 percent; this year, the Lowe’s Presidents’ Day sale is offering up to 40 percent off select kitchen appliances.” Did you get that? You can get bigger discounts over Presidents Day than Black Friday!

Mattresses

Another surprising item that should be on your list is a new mattress. According to Consumer Reports, “In February, Presidents Day weekend is your best opportunity to find a deal on a new [mattress], and these offers often start a week or so before the long weekend and may last a few days to a week after.” If you want better sleep in 2020 and it hasn’t happened yet, head to the store this weekend to test mattresses.

Furniture

If you want to start the 2020s with a home makeover, Presidents Day Weekend is THE time to buy new furniture. Real Simple explains, “Furniture discounts are highest in January and in three-day holiday weekends such as Presidents’ Day. Act on that expert suggestion and pick up a new couch, dining set, or whatever else has been missing from the house.” You can expect discounts from 25% - 40% off on furniture and other home goods, which really adds up.

Vehicles

Now, I know not many people buy vehicles on a whim. But, even if you don’t feel like spontaneously buying a new vehicle this weekend, you should keep it in mind for next year. Why? Real Car Tips explains, “If you're considering the most recent models, January and February are good months to buy […] Certain holidays offer good buying opportunities since manufacturers tend to offer special incentives. President's Day is one of the best holidays to shop for a new car. It occurs during the 3rd Monday of February, when sales are slow and inventory should be plentiful.”

Winter Wear

For those us who call New York home, we know we still have plenty of time to showcase our winter wardrobe. However, around Presidents Day, retailers start moving out the winter wear to introduce the new spring lines. This means you can stock up on winter wear (even designer goods, like winter boots) at clearance prices!

What Not to Buy This Weekend

Considering what we just discussed, as tempted as you may feel about buying all the goods for spring as they are rolled out, Presidents Day Weekend is NOT the time to shop for spring break! Resist the urge and wait for the next sale weekend to roll around. This weekend focus on the big stuff: electronics, appliances, furniture, mattresses, and winter wear.

To help you get started, check out these sale guides:

·       Best Presidents Day Sales to Shop in 2020

·       The best Presidents' Day sales 2020: deals from Best Buy, Walmart and more

·       It’s THE Weekend To Buy A New Mattress (& Other Stuff) On Super Sale

Forget Cyber Monday. I’m All About Travel Tuesday.

While many of you may be reading this while you are trying to decide if you are going to go out in the shopping rush today. I have news for you. There is another big savings day right around the corner that you may want to save your money for.

Travel Tuesday is the Tuesday following Black Friday. It occurs on December 3, 2019, this year. Travel Tuesday is one day of the year when you can find huge discounts on travel – flights, hotels, cruises, and more. Since Travel Tuesday is a newer sales day, fewer people know about it, which means you will have an easier time scoring deals.

As someone who absolutely loves to travel both with my kids and kid-free, I’m telling you to save some of your money today so you can treat yourself on Tuesday. I’m here to help you get ready for the newest most exciting shopping day of the year.

Prepare Your Travel Bucket List

If you suffer from wanderlust, Travel Tuesday is your jam. However, you do want to have some places in mind that you’d like to visit rather than purchasing flights for an unknown destination at the spur of the moment. Instead, make a travel bucket list and start crossing your fingers that Travel Tuesday offers deals for these destinations.

Research Ahead of Time

While there are sure to be great deals on Travel Tuesday, you don’t want to get suckered. Take some time today to do a bit of light research on the destinations you have in mind, so you’ll know a good deal when you see one.

What to Expect

You should expect big discounts on travel – 70% off domestic and international bucket list destinations. Plus, Hopper found “more flights discounted on Travel Deal Tuesday than Black Friday and Cyber Monday combined.”

Good Morning America’s Think Travel Tuesday for the year's best vacation deals is already listing some of 2019’s Travel Tuesday deals such as luxury resorts at 50% to 70% off in destinations like the Grand Cayman, Mexico, Negril, and more.

Where to Check for Deals

In addition to following news sites like Good Morning America, you should also plan to check individual airlines, cruise lines, hotel chains, and travel company web pages (such as Cheap Caribbean) and social media sites for Travel Tuesday deals.  

Don’t Forget to Read the Fine Print

Finally, it is super (super) important to read the fine print when it comes to travel deals. While you can get an incredibly awesome deal, there may be some reasons for you to hesitate hitting the “Book It” button. For example, many Travel Tuesday deals are non-refundable. Also, many Travel Tuesday deals may wind up costing you significantly more than the sticker price due to baggage fees, resort fees, and parking charges.

After you book your trip on Travel Tuesday, be sure to comment to let me know where you are going and what kind of deal you received!

The Dos and Don’ts for Black Friday Shoppers

Shopping’s biggest day of the year is almost here. As a personal shopper, not only do I love to shop for myself, but I also love to shop for others. So, naturally, I am paying close attention to the upcoming Black Friday sales. While I could talk to you all day long about what to buy, I’d rather talk to you about how to make Black Friday shopping a worthwhile experience.

For many, Black Friday shopping has become as much of a tradition as eating turkey on Thanksgiving. But, many of these same people are doing it all wrong. That’s why I’m taking some time today to share the dos and don’ts of Black Friday shopping.

Check the Times

This should not come as a surprise to anyone, but Black Friday no longer just exists on the day after Thanksgiving. Many of the major retailers open their doors to Black Friday shoppers on Thanksgiving. And, it’s getting earlier and earlier. However, opening dates and times vary greatly from one store to the next. This is why it is so important to check the times before you head out. Plus, many stores offer Black Friday doorbusters only during certain hours.

Review the Ads

The best way to save money is to go into your Black Friday shopping with an idea of what you are buying and where you are buying it. You can do this by reviewing the ads before going shopping. This will help you strategize where you need to go and when.

Go for Quality

Yes, there are going to be some crazy low prices, but that doesn’t mean you are actually getting a good deal. Just because you can buy something for a very low price doesn’t mean it is worth it. For example, opt for sales on a few quality items rather than purchasing several cheap things that will fall apart or not last long.

Control Your Impulses

It is very easy to get caught up in the sales on Black Friday, but you don’t want to blow your budget – especially on things you don’t need – and especially not on things you don’t really want. There are few things worse than buyer’s remorse. And who wants to go back out in that craziness to do returns?

The official Giphy for NBC.

Don’t Lose Your Mind

For some strange reason, Black Friday shoppers lose their minds and act like someone other than themselves. We’ve all seen videos of Black Friday shoppers fighting over toys, and we’ve all witnessed someone’s rude behavior in a store. Don’t be this person! Instead, go into your Black Friday shopping with extreme patience and lower your expectations.

And, for goodness sake, be nice to the retail workers! Trust me – they do not want to be there dealing with rude people when they could be spending Thanksgiving with their families.

Prioritize What Matters

Is it more important for you to get that huge deal or rest? Do what is best for you. If you love the rush of Black Friday shopping, then, by all means, go for it! But, if you find it more stressful than fun than just do your shopping online at home in your pajamas.

Remember, More Sales are Coming

Finally, don’t forget that there many more shopping days after Black Friday before Christmas. Even better, there are many more sale days coming. Cyber Monday follows immediately after Black Friday. Travel Tuesday is right behind it. And, the final Saturday before Christmas always hosts big sales. You still have time. Don’t lose your mind.

Are you a Black Friday fan? Let me know in the comments!

All the 👏 👏 👏 for the FabFitFun Summer Box!

I am all about a good subscription box – especially one as fabulous as FabFitFun! By this point, you have surely heard of subscription boxes, and I am betting you have been tempted to go ahead and order one.

As busy working women (and moms), it is super important to find ways to practice self-care. A carefully curated subscription box, such as the FabFitFun Summer Box, is one of the best ways to do so. Someone else puts together all the self-care items you need!

I recently received my FabFitFun Summer Box, and it is to die for. Today, I’m telling you all about and explaining why it is such a great deal. I have no doubt that after reading about it today, you will be ready to order your own.

What Came Inside

Each season, FabFitFun puts together a box filled with the most desirable items for women. Their boxes are packed to the brim with fun. For example, as soon as I saw the pretty box, I was excited. Once I opened my Summer Box, I was giddy. It contained great things for my face, including facial masks, facial spray mists, and a makeup setting spray. There were also items to help with my travel like a portable blow dryer and fun jewelry! Plus, as a working mom, I was delighted to discover there was also a gift card for HelloFresh, which is definitely what I need when I want to make quick lunches and dinners for the family!

Why It is a Great Deal

Now, while most of us can get behind something as fun as a delivery of must-have items, we can all appreciate a good deal. And, that is why FabFitFun is so popular! I get over $200 in products for just $50 per season box, and it's filled with beauty, wellness, fitness, and even tech. It's a little bit of everything, and it fits every part of my working mom lifestyle! Plus, FabFitFun even lets you customize your box. You can either let them surprise or choose products and add-ons.

How You Can Get an Even Better Deal

Here’s where it gets really good. Inside each box is a mini-magazine that details each product in your box as well as exclusive coupons for brands you find inside the box. But, wait, there’s more! You can use my code to get your first FabFitFun box for even less money! Simply use CHOY10 coupon for $10 off your first box at fabfitfun.com. And, when you do, be sure to tag me in your FabFitFun unboxing pics on Instagram! I can’t wait to see the joy these products bring you.

Where to Shop This Black Friday - WINNER ANNOUNCED!

While Thanksgiving is all about being thankful for what you have, Black Friday is all about shopping for what you don’t have. For those who love to shop as much as I do, Black Friday is our true holiday! It is a day when the rush of shopping is celebrated – and no one bats an eye when you walk around carrying tons of shopping bags. Shopping mavens, rejoice!

To help guide all my fellow Black Friday competitive shoppers, I am highlighting my picks for the best places to find great deals on Black Friday.

The Best Places to Find Deep Discounts

First, let’s tackle the staples in the industry. You want to head to the department stores offering the biggest discounts. According to Wallet Hub, the store offering the steepest discounts is Belk. Belk has a 2018 average discount of 68.9 percent off regular prices. Kohl’s and Macy’s department store are also in their top ten list. Also, you can expect to find great discounts (and big crowds) at Walmart, Target and Old Navy.

Where to Shop in Your Pajamas

For those of you who do not enjoy the Black Friday frenzy or the large crowds, you can find excellent Black Friday deals online. Even better, many of the major online stores (such as Amazon and Walmart) are offering free Christmas shipping or competitively low shipping costs. You will find the best shopping deals on Amazon and Walmart with Best Buy rounding out the group.

Be aware that online sites will run specials beginning at certain times similarly to actual storefronts. If you know an online retailer will drop the price of an item you have to have, then you might want to set up a notification or alarm. For instance, Amazon will run lightning deals for certain products which will likely sell out in a matter of minutes.

If You Want to Shop in NYC, Here’s Where You Should Go

For those of us who call NYC home or those who will be visiting the city that never sleeps over Thanksgiving, you can head to high-end retail stores to find exceptional Black Friday sales beginning on Thanksgiving. Macy’s Herald Square will be open from 5 pm – 2 am on Thanksgiving, and it will reopen on Black Friday at 6 am. Saks Off Fifth and Bloomingdale’s will also have offer Black Friday deals. If you want to finish your Christmas shopping all in one upscale place, head to Brookfield Place luxury mall.

I’m Going to Make One Reader’s Christmas Wish Come True!

While you are spending your Black Friday shopping for those you love, I want to do something special for one lucky reader. What do you want for Christmas this year? Tell me in the comments of this blog. I will choose one commenter and send her what she wished for! It’s really that simple.

So, what are you waiting for? Tell me what you want this Christmas below. I will choose the lucky Christmas wish winner after Black Friday and send the present her way.

UPDATE: THANK YOU FOR ALL THE COMMENTS. I WOULD LIKE TO ANNOUNCE THE WINNER IS AMY - WHO WOULD LIKE A GIFT CARD TO HELP HER BUY SOME THINGS FROM HER DAMAGED HOME FROM HURRICANE IRMA. PLEASE SEND ME AN EMAIL!