smart_holiday_shoppingSimple ways to make your big shopping weekend a success!

The biggest shopping days of the year are coming up! Are you worried that you will be left with an empty wallet after Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday? Don’t despair! Help is here. Read on for tips and tricks to stay ahead of the crowd during this hectic weekend.

  1. Make your list and set your budget. First, decide on a shopping budget and be determined to stick to it. Then, make your list, and be sure to have it with you when you shop. This is your guide to keep you on track and within your budget.
  1. Buy a Gift, Receive a Gift. With the purchase of a $100 gift card for a friend or family member new to the spa, you will receive a $20 Spa Card to be used towards any service of $85 and over (May be used January 3rd-April 30, 2015). Give the gift of relaxation!
  1. Comparison shop. Go online and compare prices before you hit the stores. But, do not focus solely on the price. Decide which deal will give you the best value, including shipping costs where applicable, and free gifts. Remember, free gifts can be used for others on your list. Shop smarter, not harder.
  1. Bring coupons and ads with you. Scan the newspaper in the weeks leading up to your big shopping weekend. Cut out the ads and coupons that pertain to the items on your list. Many retailers will be price-matching their competitors, so you may be able to get an item at a different retailer for the same price.
  1. Do your homework. Once you have your list compiled and your ads selected, make a plan of the stores you will visit. Then, go online and check out store policies. It’s imperative to know each retailer’s policies on refunds, cancellations, returns, etc., in case the recipient of the gift needs to make an exchange or return. In addition, be sure to ask for gift receipts to make this process much easier.
  1. Don’t get caught up in the hype! Black Friday is an exciting, crazy day! You’ll see bargains everywhere that say, “Lowest Price of the Year!” Don’t be fooled. Remember, if you thoroughly completed your homework, you are prepared for the propaganda. Don’t let your emotions and all the excitement cause you to buy something you were not intending to buy. Stick to the plan!

Once the shopping has come to an end and things have settled down, take some time to unwind and re-energize a bit. Call Southwest Day Spa at 617-730-5530 and reserve a Spa Escape. You certainly have earned it!