BLACK FRIDAY. I don’t know why I do it. I spend 364 days a year trying to get as much sleep as possible. With a spunky two year old and an extra cuddly infant, those hours are few and far between.
So why, oh why, do I choose each year to rob myself of those precious hours of sleep? Those hours between four and seven when my babies seem to actually sleep fairly soundly? Those hours that are the darkest and I’m snoring the loudest?
Is it the sales? The $5.00 movies at Target? The $2.00 sweaters at Old Navy? (I may be prone to exaggeration). I have to admit, I am impressed by the women (and a few men) who have their lists and know what door-busters are at which stores. They know all the best deals and have maps and schedules and routes all planned out.
I don’t have tips for those of you with that dedication – you’ve already got it figured out. I don’t have tips for getting the best deals or anything practical like that. Instead, I have tips for the rest of us. Those of us who can barely make a grocery list, I’ve got Black Friday tips for you! I want you to enjoy this crazy tradition, so here are some ways that help me have a great time.
1. Stay Calm.
I know you want to bash your cart into the heels of the woman who cut you off to get to the 50 cent throw pillows at Bed, Bath and Beyond. Don’t do it! Take a deep breath and get back by getting the best deal!
Make sure she sees you when you check out with the 562 piece Calphalon baking set that you got for $5.99. (Nevermind that you already have everything in it and won’t use half of it…IT’S SUCH A GOOD DEAL!)
2. Stay Caffeinated.
When you wake before the chickens, staying awake is important. I would not survive the marathon that is Black Friday without some help from Starbucks and they know how to throw a Black Friday party. They have prepped and planned for this Super Bowl of caffeination.
They’ve got your free samples, they’ve got your banana bread. Most importantly, they’ve got your caffeine. Lots and lots of caffeine. I’ve also been known to bring a thermos. I’m a picky coffee drinker, so I love the right blend of creamer and coffee. (I’m not that high maintenance, I promise.)
3. Shop for Yourself.
I am notorious for being a very selfish Black Friday shopper. I like giving unique gifts for Christmas (read: not clothes or other practical things), so many of the sales would be wasted on me if not for my selfish shopping. My husband doesn’t need a $10 cashmere sweater from The Gap, but I sure do!
4. Shop with a Buddy.
Who else are you going to make fun of people with?
5. Shop for Fun!
This is my most important tip. I love the thrill of a good deal just as much as the next gal. What I love even more is choosing the perfect Christmas gift for my loved ones. I know the pull to get THAT PERFECT GIFT and get it AT THE BEST PRICE. But don’t forget to have fun.
You will finish your list, whether its on Black Friday, or Cyber Monday. Your loved ones will love what you get them. So while you’re out with the masses, see what you can find, drink some coffee and have fun!
Are you a Black Friday shopper? Or do you prefer Cyber Monday?
Pin these tips for later!
Originally published November 21, 2014
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