News flash! Borders Group Inc. will be closing 200 mall stores across the country in January 2010. About 130 of the mall locations, branded as Waldenbooks and Borders Express stores, would still remain open, according to an announcement on the Borders Web site.

The company provided a Borders store closing list, and although it hasn't been finalized, there are four Maryland locations mentioned so far, including three Borders Express stores in Glen Burnie, Owings Mills and Wheaton as well as a Waldenbooks in Gaithersburg.

None of the freestanding superstore locations will be affected, according to the announcement.

Some of the approximately 1,500 employees who will lose their jobs are expected to get other positions within the chain.

This decision to "right-size" the chain (as the company described it) follows the company's pattern since fiscal 2001. They've closed a number of stores each year. 

Retail reporter Andrea K. Walker thinks this decision to close so many stores might have been prompted when discounters like Walmart.com decided to sell recently released books for as low as $8.99. Even Sears.com has gotten into the book price wars.

All this makes me wonder: where do you buy your books?

Continue reading "Borders closing stores in 2010" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 9:51 AM | Permalink | Comments (5)
Categories: Shopping
        

It used to be that to get one of the over-the-top toys from the famed FAO Schwartz you had to order from their catalog or visit one of two stores at Fifth Avenue in New York or Caesars' Palace in Las Vegas.

But beginning Nov. 1, Toys R Us will open FAO Schwartz boutiques in 585 of its stores, the toy company said Tuesday. It has also relaunched the website, FAO.com, and will publish its Holiday Catalog.

Toys R Us brought the financially troubled FAO Schwartz in May.

The boutiques will be placed prominently at the front of Toys R Us stores and have life-sized displays of the FAO Schwartz soldier. The boutiques will be a little more affordable than the typical FAO Schwartz merchandise, ranging from $2.99 to $64.99.

Among the toys to be sold at the boutiques will be replicas of the iconic piano that Tom Hanks played with his feet in the movie Big.

(photo courtesy of AP)

Posted by Andrea Walker at 12:53 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Holiday shopping, Shopping
        

The holiday season is around the corner, meaning shoppers are more than likely about to stock up on gift cards to give their family and friends.

But a recent study commissioned by the Consumer Federation of America found that many consumers still don't understand the rules of bank or cash gift cards issued by companies such as American Express, Visa and Mastercard.

Just 33 percent of those surveyed knew there was a charge to purchase these cards and only 54 percent knew that some of the gift cards charge a monthly fee after 6 to 12 months. Cash and bank gift cards usually cost $4 to $7 to purchase and have monthly fees as high as $4.95 as early as six months after purchase.

As a result of the study, the Consumer Federation of America and the National Association of Consumer Agency Administrators have created a new brochure on gift cards they'll give out at retailers such as CVS and Walgreens. American Express will also give out copies.

You can also access the brochure at www.consumerfed.org. Find Maryland rules at the attorney general's office website.

A new federal law goes into affect in Aug. 2010 that will prohibit fees from being charged on gift cards that have been used in the past 12 months. Until then, use caution when purchasing gift cards.

(photo courtesy of AP)

Posted by Andrea Walker at 8:59 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Gift cards, Holiday shopping, Shopping
        

Early birds will get $100 $10 gift cards at Filene's Basement tomorrow.

Be one of the first 100 customers at any of their locations when the store opens for business on Saturday, Oct. 24, and receive a $100 $10 gift card for your trouble. 

In Maryland, Filene's Basement is located at 600 East Pratt Street in the Inner Harbor and 11840 Rockville Pike in Rockville.

Both stores open for business at 10 a.m. Thanks to the Downtown Partnership for the tip!

UPDATED: An earlier version of this blog post incorrectly stated the value of the gift card that Filene's Basement would be giving away earlier. They will be $10.

Posted by Liz Kay at 11:08 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Shopping
        

I've been writing about a book war that started among retailers when Walmart.com announced that it would sell popular books for as little as $10.

The retailer dropped the price twice after Amazon.com lowered its prices. Now both retailers and Target.com  are selling books for $8.99.

And today Sears Corp. announced it was joining in too. The company, which operates Sears and Kmart, says it will give customers a $9 credit if they buy any of ten titles at Sears.com, Walmart.com, Target.com or Amazon.com.

The credit can be used toward a purchase of $45 or more at Sears.com.

Posted by Andrea Walker at 5:24 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Holiday shopping, Shopping
        

I went to Target this weekend to buy toilet paper, bathroom cleaner and paper towels and walked out with $80 worth of impulse purchases that filled four bags.

I'm not the only one out there that gets sucked in to buying stuff I hadn't planned. ShopSmart, a shopping magazine published by Consumer Reports, will publish a poll in its November issue that found that 60 percent of women have bought something on a whim in the last year. The average cost of these impulse purchases was $108.

More than 35 percent of women have buyers remorse, regretting things that we've bought. Women most often impulse buy because they can't pass up the good price. Clothing and food were the most recent purchases.

And I'm not the only one that was enticed at Target. The survey found that 33 percent of women made their most recent impulse purchase at mass merchandisers, such as Walmart and Target.

So how many of you out there have impulsed shop? What tips do you have for fighting it?

Posted by Andrea Walker at 8:23 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Shopping
        

When I came in this morning one of the big news stories of the day was Toys R Us offering layaway on high-priced items, such as bikes, play kitchens, trampolines and pools and water slides.

But not in Maryland.

A short sentence at the end of a press release said Maryland isn't included in the program, but didn't say why.

I called a spokesperson and got a vague email that said:  "We are working through some of the internal systems requirements unique to implementing the layaway program in Maryland."

Yeah, I don't know what that means either.

I called for further explanation but haven't heard back. I also called the Maryland Attorney General's office, which regulates layaway policies, to see if they know what the reasoning could be. I'll let you know when I hear back.

Toys R Us is offering the layaway program to compete for cash-strapped consumers during the important holiday season. Many consumers will be on tight budgets this year.

 Layway allows people to pay off gifts over time and can be a good alternative to charging on a credit card.  But watch for fees. The Toys R Us program has a $10 fee, for example.

Most stores don't offer layaway anymore, but there are a few, including Marshalls, Kmart and Sears.  I recently blogged about some other things Sears and Kmart are doing for the holidays.

Posted by Andrea Walker at 9:28 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Holiday shopping, Shopping
        

A recent survey of Baltimore residents revealed some intriguing stats about shopping patterns within the city.

According to the University of Baltimore poll, commissioned by Mayor Sheila M. Dixon's office,

Shopping trends revealed that most - 46 percent - leave the city when they want to buy consumer goods. Less than 1 percent said they shop online. Dixon wants more stores to open and pointed to her efforts lobbying retailers such as Filene's Basement to stay in the city.

Grocery stores, though, appear to be available, with 78 percent saying they live near a "well-stocked" grocery store.

Retail reporter Andrea Walker said that the supermarket data follows national trends. Generally, most people buy groceries near their homes. Also, more supermarkets have opened in Baltimore, giving people more options.

And, she points out, it's not surprising how many people head to the counties to shop because there are more choices. Let's face it, there aren't any traditional department stores within the city limits --- Filene's Basement is more of an off-price, discount store --- and only one Walmart and Target. 

But the overall shopping patterns are pretty fascinating when broken down by race.

Continue reading "Where do you shop? " »

Posted by Liz Kay at 4:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food, Shopping
        

More bargains for you cost conscious consumers. And once again they're from Walmart.

Walmart.com said this morning it will start selling the Top 10 pre-selling books for $10, including shipping, on its Website.

The list of books is available now at walmart.com/books.

The books are scheduled for release in November and include "Under the Dome," by Stephen King, "Going Rogue: An American Life" by Sarah Palin, "Alex Cross" by James Patterson and "Ford County: Stories by John Grisham."

Walmart.com is also introducing a new book program, "America's Reading List," which will allow shoppers to buy the nation's 200 best-selling books at a 50 percent discount. Book titles include, "True Compass: A Memoir by Ted Kennedy" and "The Help" by Kathryn Stockett.

The retailer is discounting books just as the competitive holiday season is about to begin. Consumers are still penny-pinching because of the economy and retailers are trying to entice them with bargains. Walmart also recently announced it was selling 100 toys for $10.

Posted by Andrea Walker at 9:03 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Shopping
        

Macy's is having its fourth annual "Shop For a Cause" event at its stores and online this Saturday.

The department store chain is allowing charities to sell $5 shopping passes that consumers can take to a Macy's store on Saturday and get discounts such as 20 percent off purchases. All of the proceeds will go to the charities. Consumers can buy the passes now at Macy's stores and from its Website Saturday.

 Look up participating charities at www.macys.com/shopforacause.

Posted by Andrea Walker at 10:12 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Shopping, charity, online shopping
        

Mattel recently introduced a new line of black Barbies that the company says have more authentic-looking facial features.

It has fuller lips, a wider nose, more distinct cheek bones and curlier hair, Mattel said.

It was designed by Stacey McBride-Irby, an African-American mother of two who has worked at Mattel for 12 years. She said she wanted her young daughter to have a Barbie that looked more like her.

The line of dolls - Grace, Kara, Trichelle - are all different hues to reflect the diversity of skin tones among black people. They also have different interests, such as music, math and science.

I have only seen the dolls in pictures and not in person, and their facial features are definitely more authentic.

But just like the problem with white Barbies, the dolls have bodies that most women of any race just don't have. The long legs, super tiny waist and big breasts should be reserved for super models. The hair is also still pretty straight and long, feeding into the perception that short, natural hair isn't cute.

I do like the fact that the new dolls are interested in intellectual, substantive subjects like math. It sure beats the Barbie's I saw in a local store a few years ago, that depicted black Barbies with strollers and babies.

So what do you guys think about the new Black Barbies? Did Mattel get it right? Or was there more they could have done?

(photo courtesy of AP).

Posted by Andrea Walker at 11:27 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Shopping
        

The Ethan Allen stores in Towson, Annapolis and Catonsville are clearing their showroom floors to bring in new furniture and are having a warehouse sale this weekend to get rid of the excess.

Ethan Allen employee Allison Fleischer was at the warehouse today helping to set up everything. She said shoppers will be able to save up to 80 percent off of furniture, accessories, accents and window treatments.

The sale is 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday at the Ethan Allen warehouse at 917 Middle River Road in Middle River.

Posted by Andrea Walker at 1:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Shopping
        

Eddie Bauer is opening a store at Westfield Annapolis Mall Friday and is giving away freebies in celebration. The store opens at 9 a.m that day.

The promotions include:

Free $20 savings card to the first 100 customers in the door to be used on opening day. 

Peel & Reveal card giveaway to all customers on opening day good for 30, 20 or 15 percnet off of an entire purchase

Raffle drawing for two Eddie Bauer Expedition Large Rolling Duffel Bags

Double points for Eddie Bauer Friends customers during the entire grand opening weekend from October 9-11

Posted by Andrea Walker at 11:37 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Shopping
        

My colleague Lorraine Mirabella found out today that construction on a 144,000-square-foot Wegmans Food Markets store in Abingdon will begin Thursday.

It is slated to open in the spring of 2011.

The grocer will anchor a retail and office center planned for the intersection of Box Hill Corporate Drive and Woodsdale Road, near I-95 in Harford County in a complex called the Boulevard at Box Hill.

Wegmans now has one Maryland store in Hunt Valley that is of similar size at 140,000 square feet. The grocer is also building in Columbia in Howard County and would like to build others in Maryland. A chain spokeswoman had told The Baltimore Sun that it selected the Harford County site in part because of the area’s expected influx of residents who will work at or near Aberdeen Proving Ground as part of base realignment.

Developer Ward Properties is starting the first phase of the Boulevard at Box Hill, including the Wegmans, two free-standing restaurants and a free-standing bank. Besides the grocer, known for its gourmet offerings, the center is expected to eventually include more than 450,000 square feet of stores, 50,000 square feet of restaurants and 88,000 square feet of office space, said Mackenzie Retail LLC, which is handling the center’s leasing.

Posted by Andrea Walker at 3:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (9)
Categories: Food, Shopping
        

Let's face it: rebates are annoying. I'd MUCH rather pay a lower price for a product instead of jumping through all the hoops that retailers and manufacturers set up to stop me from reaping the rewards promised on the advertising claiming that something is eligible for a rebate.

Generally speaking, the same folks who stuck that advertising on your product are hoping you won't follow through with mailing receipts, UPC codes or other documentation in to receive your money back. The instructions are often deliberately obtuse, and if you can't figure it out or are otherwise denied ... you've often already torn up the packaging and can't return the item.

Now they've come up with another way to prevent you from cashing in ...

Continue reading "Rebates issued as check cards instead of checks" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 9:06 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Shopping
        

Some of the areas trendiest boutiques are cleaning their closets and selling their goods at a discount to benefit The Junior League of Baltimore.

It's part of the Junior League's annual Boutique Warehouse Sale. About 30 to 40 retailers will sell the stuff that didn't do so well in their stores, and would normally be put on the clearance rack, at the event. The boutiques will split the profit 50 percent with the Junior League.

There is a preview sale Friday at The Wise Penny, a thrift shop the Junior League operates at 5902 York Road in Baltimore. The organization's headquarters is also located in the same building. Tickets for the preview sale start at $35 and can be bought at the door or online until Thursday night.

The sale will be open to everyone Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

 Boutiques that will be selling their goods include Double Dutch, Cookie Lee, Joanna Gray Shoes of London, Linens and Lingerie, Nectar, Tiny Toes, Heartbeat and Magda.

Photo by John Makely, Baltimore Sun

Posted by Andrea Walker at 4:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Shopping, charity
        

Halloween is still a month away, but retailers are already rolling out the holiday specials.  

Walmart said today it is bringing back and expanding a holiday promotion it started last year to sell toys for $10.

The world's largest retailer will sell more than 100 toys for $10 in a promotion that will last through the Christmas holiday. The retailer will also match the price of any competitor that sells the toys for less.

Toys that will be offered for the special price include: games such as Connect Four and Monopoly, Little Dreams Interactive Baby Doll, Tonka Light and Sound Dump Truck or Fire Truck, Play-Doh Burger Builder Set and Hot Wheels Trick Track.

(Photo courtesy of AP)

Posted by Andrea Walker at 10:07 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Shopping
        

Bring gently worn sneakers, loafers or other footwear to Benjamin Lovell Shoes in Harbor East to save $10 off a new pair of Clarks.

Soles4Souls will give the donated pairs to someone in need --- a victim of a natural disaster or someone living in extreme poverty.

Benjamin Lovell will offer the discount from Saturday, September 26 through October 10.

(photo: Jed Kirschbaum/Baltimore Sun)

Posted by Liz Kay at 9:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Shopping
        

Toys R Us is opening up 80 holiday express pop-up stores in October in malls across the country, including The Mall in Columbia and White Marsh Mall.

It will also open express stores at its Babies R Us locations, including in Baltimore and Pasadena.

The pop-up stores are 4,000-square-feet and will sell everything from dolls and action figures to educational toys. The stores will close in mid-January and exchanges and returns can be made at any Toys R Us or Babies R Us store after that.

The "express stores" at Babies R Us will have 2,500-square-feet of toys, nearly triple the toy space typically found at those stores.

(photo courtesy of AP)

Posted by Andrea Walker at 12:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Shopping
        

Prime Retail, the Baltimore operator and owner of outlet malls, said today it will begin selling "shop pink bonus cards" under a program that will raise money for breast cancer research and save shoppers 25 percent at stores at its malls.

The cards, which shoppers can buy at guest services offices beginning Tuesday, cost two dollars and can be used throughout October, which is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. All of the proceeds of the card will be donated to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation. The cards will be able to be used at certain stores for savings of up to 25 percent.

Prime Retail has outlet malls in Queenstown and Hagerstown in Maryland.

Posted by Andrea Walker at 11:31 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Shopping
        

Take advantage of other people's fall cleaning and purging this weekend, because it seems a lot of neighborhoods are having community yard sales. I drove past a sign for the Bolton Hill Community Yard Sale on Saturday, September 12, for example.

Trying to figure out the best way to hit them all? As Community Coordinator Carla suggested, use the Yard Sale Treasure Map to plot your course through myriad Craiglist posts about tag sales and garage sales in your community.

Just enter the name of your town and how far you're willing to travel and receive a Google mash-up of yard sales advertised via Craigslist. Then, delete the listings that don't interest you, reorder the points to create the most efficient route, and print the directions. 

I also got a heads up about another garage sales directory ... 

Continue reading "Garage & yard sale directories: Consumer Web Site of the Week" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 9:21 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Shopping
        

I recently wrote about the high cost of college textbooks and ways students could save on the costs.

Internet sites like Half.com, chegg.com and bookfinder.com, either sell or rent books at costs way below your typical bookstore.

After my story a couple of Baltimore entrepreneurs called to tell me they too had just launched a Website for textbooks - textspotter.com.

The site, started by new college graduates Jimmy Slatkin and Ben Rosin, is a price comparison engine that launched earlier this week. Slatkin and Rosin, old friends from the Park School, said the service will save students more than $100 per semester, or $5 to $80 per book.

A couple of readers also wrote in to say that Bookholders on York Road in Towson is also a good place to buy textbooks. The retailer's website also says they have a store in College Park.

Posted by Andrea Walker at 9:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Shopping, textbooks
        

Research firm Nielsen put out the results of a survey Thursday that said more affluent consumers, or those making more than $70,000, are the heaviest coupon users.

About 39 percent of this demographic are "super heavy coupon users," meaning they purchase 51 to 103 items on coupons semi-annually. That's compared to 35 percent of all other households.

Low income households are less likely to use coupons.

Maybe wealthier households have more access to newspapers and computers where they can clip or download coupons?

In general, coupon usage is up, which is no surprise given the economy. More than 1.6 billion coupons were used in 2009, according to Nielsen. That's an increase of 23 percent from last year.

Posted by Andrea Walker at 12:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (17)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Shopping
        

More consumers are trading down to store brands to save money during the recession and Consumer Reports found they're not giving up taste or quality to do it.

The magazine did a blind taste test of 29 store-brand foods and found that 23 tasted as good as, or better than, national brands.

For instance, Consumer Reports tasters preferred Archer Farms Chewy Soft Baked cookies, a Target store brand, to similar products by Pepperdige Farm. It liked Kirkland Signature Organic Medium Salsa by Cotsco over Old El Paso and Great Value Whipped Topping by Walmart to that by Kraft.

 “Our tests should erase any lingering doubts that store-brand packaged goods aren’t at least worth a try," Tod Marks, senior project editor, Consumer Reports Shopping, said in a statement. "In many cases, you’ll save money without compromising on quality.”

Consumer Reports said its test also found 19 other store-brand foods that tasted just as good—albeit a bit different— as their name brand competitor. Duncan Hines Family Style Chewy Fudge and Target’s Market Pantry Fudge brownies, and Grey Poupon and Publix’s GreenWise Market Organic mustard are just a few items on store shelves locked in a taste test tie, the magazine said.

The store-brand foods that Consumer Reports tested cost an average of 27 percent less than big-name counterparts—about as much as consumers will find across all product categories, according to industry experts.

The biggest price difference was 35 cents per ounce for Costco’s vanilla extract vs. $3.34 for McCormick’s.

Consumer Reports says the price gaps have less to do with what goes into the package than with the research, development, and marketing costs that help build a household name.

Tasters found America’s Choice (A&P) multigrain spaghetti with omega-3 at $1.59 per box to be similar to the costlier Barilla Plus at $2.25 per box (14.5 oz for each box). Testers found the difference to be marginal; "both pastas have a mild whole-grain flavor and are quite tasty with a nice sauce," the study found.

So how many of you are trading down to private brands? Do they taste as good as the national brands? What are some of your favorites?

Posted by Andrea Walker at 6:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Food, Shopping
        

Giant Food sent out newly designed loyalty cards to its shoppers this week. When you use it for the first time you get 5 percent off your entire bill.

If you're wondering what prompted the generosity, it's part of yet another new marketing campaign by the retailer to offer its shoppers better value. As part of the new initiative, the grocer will double the number of items it puts on sale each week. The grocer will also introduce new shelf tags and signs in the store.

The push is the latest by area grocers competing for consumers who are watching their spending because of the recession. Earlier this month, Safeway announced it was slashing pricing on thousands of items. Giant began cutting prices on items in every department two years ago.

Posted by Andrea Walker at 10:11 AM | Permalink | Comments (13)
Categories: Food, Shopping
        

It isn't what you think.

Most people might assume that new cars, pretty clothes or a fancy house with all the trimmings could make them feel satisfied with life.

However, researchers have found that giving to charity, buying things for others and investing in experiences like vacations or performances makes people happier than any of these trinkets, according to an article in the Boston Globe's Ideas section.

Even giving a small amount, such as $5, could make a significant impact in a person's outlook, the researchers said. 

Another point: investing in vacations and dinners with friends leads to fonder memories down the road, perhaps because these indulgences let us enjoy time with others and because recollections of any unpleasant aspects of a trip --- missed flights, etc. --- seem to fade with time.

On the flip side, the Globe article also discussed how being focused on money can also less likely to invest in activities with other people.

These findings leave me with a lot of questions ... 

Continue reading "Frugal dilemmas: happiness that money can buy" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 9:27 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Food, Shopping
        

Men's Wearhouse said today that it will hold a National Suit Drive from Sept. 1-30. The suits will be donated to non-profits who will give them out to men who need them for job interviews.

The retailer will donate one tie for every suit to help complete the outfit. If you donate a suite you'll also get a 10 percent discount coupon to Men's Warehouse.

All 1,065 Men’s Wearhouse and Men’s Wearhouse & Tux locations will serve as drop-off sites for gently used suits, dress shirts, sport coats, slacks, ties, belts and shoes.

For a complete list of locations, visit www.nationalsuitdrive.com. The company hopes to collect 150,000 items of clothing. It collected 125,000 last year.

(Photo: Barbara Haddock)

Posted by Andrea Walker at 2:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Shopping, charity
        

Do you find yourself editing your shopping cart --- grocery or online --- more often given the state of your wallet?

Brick-and-mortar stores are littered with more detritus created by fickle consumers who pick up items but then talk themselves out of the purchase as they are waiting at the cash register, according to the Associated Press.

And more people are failing to complete their checkout online, adding things to their cart but then never getting around to completing the purchase, the story states.

The phenomenon is compounded at retail stores that have fewer employees to gather the rejected products and return them to their proper homes --- leaving toiletries languishing on the candy displays and clothing strewn around the racks of accessories near the cashier.

Now, in this era where many stores fail to put price tags on items, customers are often forced to use the cash register for price checks --- or hold back a few indulgences until they see the total. I say it's nothing to feel guilty about, if it protects your bottom line. After all, they don't want you to reshelve books at the library, either, right?

However, if you have changed your mind, it's probably a little bit more considerate in a regular store to hand your unwanted items directly to a clerk instead of dumping it.

Here are some general tips to limit the last-minute rejection and impulse purchases before you reach the checkout:

Continue reading "Abandoning items at the store" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 8:41 AM | Permalink | Comments (6)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Shopping, online shopping
        

Cheap Trick Thursday continues with coupon offers great for stocking up for back-to-school courtesy of our friends on Twitter.

Save at Champs Sports with this 30 percent off coupon, thanks to SteveNoviello. The coupon is valid through Aug. 23, and there's an online code too. Be sure to read the fine print!

Get end-of-season savings at Delia's, where summer clothes are marked down as much as 80 percent, courtesy of OnlineDeals4U.

Here's a coupon to save 20 percent on a purchase of $50 or more at OshKosh stores through August 26, courtesy of Baby GoodBuys.

And Borders Rewards is offering 40 percent DVD box sets, in-store only, through Aug. 23 (limit 2). Each coupon is single-use, so sign up to save. 

Posted by Liz Kay at 2:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Shopping
        

Sears and Kmart today announced the introduction of a Christmas Club card that the retailers claim will help shoppers save for holiday shopping. Shoppers can put aside money on the card from now until Nov. 14. They can earn rewards of up to $100 on the car based on how much they save.

The announcement comes as retailers are bracing for a slow Christmas season and consumers are depending less on credit cards. The retailers have also been touting their layaway program.

Susan Ehrlich, president of financial services for Sears Holding said in a press release: “We heard our customers were concerned about how they are going to pay for their holiday shopping this year and we wanted to provide a way to ease their concern.”

But the card is also good for Sears and Kmart sales. It guarantees people who sign up for the card will have to shop their stores when the holiday season hits.

I’m all for the notion of saving. Too many people are probably still paying for their holiday purchases from last year. But consumers can save on their own too. Open a savings account you don’t have easy access to. Or put 50 bucks a week aside in your drawer if that’s what makes you save.

The rewards Sears and Kmart are offering are good if that’s the only place you plan to do your shopping. Then you might consider signing up for the card. But I bet there will be pretty good deals at all the retailers given the gloomy holiday shopping season that is expected.

Posted by Andrea Walker at 5:54 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Budgeting, Credit cards, Debt, Holiday shopping, Shopping
        

It’s hard to believe, but the holidays are just a few months away. And if current trends continue, there’s not going to be a lot of spending on gifts this year.

A survey by PriceGrabber.com found that 75.3 percent of consumers are concerned about holiday gift giving this year because of the economy.

The online shopping site has put together a list of tips on how to save $1000 over the next three months, so you’ll have a little more cash for holiday gifts.

Have you started your holiday shopping yet? Let us know some of your savings tips.

1. Pack a lunch. Eating out five days a week at $10 a day costs $50 per week. Preparing a daily meal at home with $3 worth of groceries can yield savings of $35 a week. Potential 3 month savings: $420

2. Downsize the cell phone plan. Cell phone rates vary based on the desired amount of coverage. Downsizing from a $140-per-month plan to a $60-per-month plan could lead to savings of $80 per month. Potential 3 month savings: $240

3. Live without the latte. Drinking the free coffee in the office instead of spending $3 on coffeehouse coffee every work day can save $15 a week and $60 a month. Potential 3 month savings: $180

4. Search online for coupons and discounts. Taking the time to cut $30 worth of coupons online or in the newspaper can add up each month. Potential 3 month savings: $90

5. Join the library. Checking out two books a month instead of buying two books at $15 a piece can help consumers save $30 a month. Potential 3 month savings: $90

Total potential 3 month savings: $1020

(Photo: Doug Kapustiin)

Posted by Andrea Walker at 11:14 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Holiday shopping, Shopping
        

Rite Aid is offering more coupons online through its new "Video Values" program ... simply watch commercials on the Web site and print out the coupons for the products after you're done.

Plus, for every commercial you watch, you earn credits toward a $5-off-a-$20-purchase coupon at Rite Aid.

You've got to register to earn the credits, but the savings seem pretty good on a variety of products that Rite Aid stocks: $2 off Claritin Liqui-Gels, for example, or $2 off Anti Monkey Butt Powder (yes, this is a real product) and lots of fancy shampoo-conditioner sets.

This seems like ...

Continue reading "Watch ads, save $: Cheap Trick Thursday" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 8:56 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Shopping
        

Safeway said today that it is slashing prices on thousands of items in its stores. The reductions will be as much as 25 percent.

The grocery market is more competitive than ever and everyone is looking for ways to drive people into their stores. Wegmans and Giant have also reduced prices. Whole Foods has a newsletter that gives shoppers tips on how to shop its stores frugally.

Safeway will mark its reductions with yellow tags that show the new and old price. On some items, there will be additional savings for people who use their club cards.

(Photo: Kenneth Lam/The Baltimore Sun)

Posted by Andrea Walker at 12:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Food, Shopping
        

My first lunch box was the old metal version that by the end of the year was covered in dents from dropping it on the sidewalk so much. I think it was decorated with characters from the Happy Days tv sitcom. I eventually progressed to the nicer plastic lunchbox.

These days kids can make a fashion statement with a lunchbox. Some look as nice as a designer purse. They come with pockets for ice packets and freezable lids to keep the food cold. And for kids who don’t like their food touching, you can get lunchboxes with compartments.

Epicurious recently wrote about some of the fancier lunchboxes on the market just in time for back-to-school. Some of these may be a little pricy given the economy. But they sure are cute.

Photo courtesy of Built

Posted by Andrea Walker at 11:54 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Food, Shopping
        

I wrote earlier this week about Giant and Safeway now offering electronic coupons.

Well, Superfresh started the service today as well.

If you have one of their club cards you can log onto their website and save coupons to the card. The savings will automatically be deducted at the cash register. Enjoy.

Posted by Andrea Walker at 10:43 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Food, Shopping
        

For the first time in my life I’ve been clipping coupons as I try to become more responsible with my money. But being the disorganized person that I am, I often end up at the store and the coupons are still sitting at home on my kitchen table.

Some area grocers are now giving shoppers like me another way to get coupon savings – electronic coupons. Now you can download certain coupons onto your grocery store value card. That way when you go to pay, the cashier swipes your value card and you get the savings. Convenient.

This doesn’t mean I’m advocating people stop cutting coupons from the newspaper. Electronic coupons are still in the early stages and somewhat limited. For one, not every grocery store offers it. Giant and Safeway do, for instance. Wegmans doesn’t and has no immediate plans to change that. ShopRite is exploring the option. You’re also not going to get the same variety from electronic coupons. But electronic coupons can enhance your coupon cutting.

To get Giant’s coupons you have to sign up for their electronic monthly newsletter, which the grocer will email to you. The newsletter will include monthly coupons you can download. A recent special was three free ears of locally grown corn.

Safeway rolled out electronic coupons to all its stores in June. Safeway partners with shortscuts.com, cell fire and P&G eSaver – all providers of online coupons. Consumers log onto Safeway’s website and connect to the couponLink page. They then browse coupons on the above sites and download them to their value card.

I haven’t tried either service yet, but plan to do so. Have others out there tried electronic coupons? What do you think? Any tips for us newbies? What other advice do you have for using coupons?

Posted by Andrea Walker at 9:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Food, Shopping
        

Executives from the country top’s retail Internet sites are in Baltimore this week for an “e-tail” conference at the new Hilton convention center hotel.

As expected, the theme of the conversation is surviving in an economy where consumers are spending less. But the Internet sites seem to be faring better than bricks and mortars stores, despite the economy.

Seth Adler, of Worldwide Business Research, the group that organizes the convention, said Internet retailing is a bright spot in the otherwise sluggish economy.

U.S. online retail sales are projected to rise 11 percent this year to $156 billion, according to Forrester Research. The growth is a little less than the 13 percent in 2007, but far better than most retailers have seen.

Scott Savitz, president, CEO and co-founder of shoebuy.com, said during the conference that his company expects double digit sales growth this year. Savitz said people are still spending, they’re just being more thoughtful about their choices.

The Internet is good for that because people can comparison shop and read recommendations from other shoppers. They don’t have to make a decision right away and can come back to the site when they’re ready to buy. He said his company offers free shipping and return shipping, a great savings for people watching their cash.

So, what are your Internet shopping habits these days? Do you feel more comfortable shopping online? Do you feel like you can make more thoughtful choices from your computer? Let us know.

Posted by Andrea Walker at 7:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Shopping, Technology
        

Use this Old Navy, Gap and Banana Republic 30 percent off coupon to save money, and the company will donate 5 percent of your purchase price to Teach for America. Coupon valid through Aug. 2 only.

According to the fine print, you can also use this coupon at the Gap Outlet or Banana Republic Factory Store! Thanks to Nancy Johnston over at Read Street for the tip. 

Updated: I also found this Old Navy, Gap and Banana Republic 30 percent off coupon to donate to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. So, you can pick your charity.

And then if you're shopping at Target.com, don't forget your AAA membership.

AAA members save 10 percent on many purchases at Target.com, a savings tip spotted by savvy traveler Michelle Deal-Zimmerman. However! This deal doesn't apply to some brand name products, including Sony or Apple iPods.

Turns out your AAA membership is also good for 10 percent off at the Gap Outlet and Banana Republic Factory Store, as well as regular-price items at New York & Company and Payless ShoeSource, too!

And don't forget about cheap(er) cheesecake today in honor of National Cheesecake Day.

Posted by Liz Kay at 4:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Shopping
        

Kids used to getting a new wardrobe for school might be finding themselves wearing the same gear from last year instead.

That’s because parents are more cash-strapped then ever and aren’t planning to spend a lot on back-to-school this year, according to a survey released today.

Back to school spending will drop 8.5 to 12 percent, according to the survey by America’s Research Group. More than half of parents are trying to get their kids to wear what they wore last year. And 34 percent of parents said they will spend less than last year. The survey consisted of 1,000 telephone interviews conducted July 6 to 10.

So what are your plans for back-to-school shopping? What will your kids be wearing? Anyone have tips on how to save on back-to-school gear?

Posted by Andrea Walker at 11:28 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Budgeting, Shopping
        

Christmas in July. Hardly a new concept, but one that has seemed to gain a few new adapters this year, among them Toys R Us and Sears.

Some, like Sears, are using it to promote their Christmas lines and get people to shop for their ornaments and trees before other stores put their inventory out. Others are using it to clear out regular merchandise, by selling items at discounts typical for the holiday season. Toys R Us, for instance has steep discounts at many of its stores throughout this week. In theory, parents could pack away the toys they buy for Christmas.

But the question is: Are people thinking about Christmas when they’re lounging by the pool, drink in hand, reading chick lit? Retailers have been pushing holidays up for years now, selling Thanksgiving stuff before Halloween is over and putting out Valentine’s chocolate before we’ve barely opened our last Christmas gift.

But does it really put retailers ahead of the game? Will more budget-conscious consumers think about holiday shopping earlier this year to spread their spending out? What are your thoughts on the idea?

(Photo by Amy Davis/Baltimore Sun)

Posted by Andrea Walker at 9:47 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Shopping
        

I fell for it. The lure of a 20 percent discount on the spot and the promise of more coupons in my mailbox convinced me to open a Macy’s credit card even though I knew better. What I didn’t know is that I was opening two credit cards in one.

My new credit card is used as a Macy’s card when I shop at the department store. But it can also be used as a Visa card anywhere else.

How did I find this out? I paid my bill online, only to get a paper bill saying I hadn’t paid. I was charged a late fee and an exorbitant interest rate on the “unpaid” balance.

 When I called Macy’s, the customer service guy said I paid the Visa bill, but not the Macy’s. Can we say, confusion? I didn’t even know I had a Visa bill. And with a very high limit too.

The guy transferred my payment to the Macy’s bill. But I have to say I’m still a little peeved. Like a lot of people, I’m not using much credit these days. And I definitely don’t want that much open credit.

It just reminded me to be very, very careful with credit cards. Credit card companies are raising interest rates and cutting limits as they prepare for more stringent rules to take effect in February. Banks also say they are seeing higher default rates because of the economy. Read what my colleague Eileen Ambrose recently wrote about one man’s experience. 

Here are tips from Consumers Union about credit card traps to avoid.

(Photo courtesy of AP)

Posted by Andrea Walker at 9:13 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Banks, Consumer protection, Credit cards, Debt, Shopping
        

Watch out for the modern Willie Loman.

In May, we heard warnings about beguiling teenagers and college students selling magazines door-to-door for charities that don't actually exist.

June brought us security system companies pitching 'free' alarm equipment in exchange for a monthly fee for the service itself.

Now, in Howard County, water purification companies are plying their wares by leaving free tests of home drinking water at their doors, a scam that nearly always results in recommendations that homeowners invest in a purification system.

Just remember ...

Continue reading "Door-to-door sales scams: don't buy these claims" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 8:46 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Consumer protection, Shopping
        

Looks like something is finally about to get started on the much-anticipated Wegmans super-sized, gourmet supermarket coming to Columbia soon, reports colleague Larry Carson, who covers Howard County.

Crews began erecting fencing Friday around a large warehouse in east Columbia where the 160,000 square foot Wegmans supermarket and parking garage are to be built, Larry reports.

Jo Natale, a company spokeswoman in Rochester, N.Y., told Larry that demolition of the warehouse, last used as a filming studio for the Baltimore-based HBO series "The Wire," should be complete by August’s end.

The firm has also applied for a grading permit, Natale said, to prepare the site for construction.

"There is no construction schedule or opening date yet," she said, adding that the store will not be ready to open in 2010. Plans for building a Wegmans on this site, on Snowden River Parkway have been discussed since 2004.

Wegmans already has a store in Hunt Valley, and plans to build several more in Maryland.

Posted by Liz Kay at 12:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Food, Shopping
        

Another dispatch from elite retail reporter Andrea K. Walker:

If you liked the nouveau style of the former Ixia restaurant in Mount Vernon, today could be your last day to take a piece of it home with you.

The upscale Mount Vernon restaurant, which closed late last month, has been selling off everything in the restaurant. Today is technically the last day of the sale, although restaurant designer and spokesman David Briskie said they might extend it into Monday or Tuesday.

What’s up for grabs? Wedgewod China, upholstered furniture, leather bar stools and one-of-a-kind art. Just to name a few things.

The sale lasts until about 5 p.m. Briskie said whatever doesn’t go will be put into storage for the next venture.

“Any designer should come because there are great deals,” Briskie said. “We paid a fortune for it and and we’re letting it go well below cost.”

(photo: Kim Hairston/Baltimore Sun)

Posted by Liz Kay at 11:09 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Shopping
        

Restoration Hardware Warehouse Sale in Edgewood! July 8 through July 12! 

RH will throw open its doors for a final closeout sale, letting visitors peruse its stock of more than 5,000 discontinued, returned or otherwise rejected furniture, lighting and home accessories.

Discounts range from 50 to 75 percent off. 

Hours of the sale are ... 

Continue reading "Restoration Hardware warehouse sale, now through the weekend!" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 8:54 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Shopping
        

Costco has reached a settlement agreement with consumers who were short-changed on their membership renewals, with agreements that expired fewer than 12 months from the re-up date, according to Consumer Reports.

Basically, consumers would come in to the warehouse retailer months after their memberships had lapsed and sign up for another year. But the company would back-date the new agreement to when the original membership ended, so consumers who didn't spot the error would pay for a full annual membership that would expire in fewer than 12 months.

It's like paying to resume a subscription to a magazine and only getting 8 or 10 issues!

Under the terms of the Costco settlement agreement ...

Continue reading "Costco membership renewal fewer than 12 months long: Naughty Business of the Week" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 9:40 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food, Naughty businesses/NBotW, Shopping
        

Auction sites such as eBay and other online sellers were flooded with "commemorative items" to honor the legacy of the King of Pop after MJ's death, said Angie Barnett, President and CEO of the Maryland BBB.

Unfortuantely, the value of most of the stuff is ...

Continue reading "Michael Jackson memorabilia: a great investment? " »

Posted by Liz Kay at 9:06 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Consumer protection, Shopping
        

Cheap wedding dress bargains are available to brides who start early and do their research.

As a bride-to-be actively avoiding many decisions about my own pending nuptials (despite the many excellent cheap and frugal wedding tips shared by Consuming Interests readers months ago), let's talk about how an organized non-procrastinator should search for a gown.

First, consider what you're paying for. Check out what the authors of the Bridal Bargains book had to say about wedding dresses -- given the price range, you'd expect things like high-quality fabric and materials such as lace, right?

At the very least, you'd want properly sewn seams. A good friend of mine recently ordered a dress from a popular retailer and found multiple problems: an exposed metal zipper instead of the covered, hidden one pictured in the catalog, poorly stitched seams that bunched in the back and even an unevenly cut hem.

Next, think about how long you'll wear this dress. I like to justify expensive purchases by dividing the price by the number of times I'll wear an item. That won't work for wedding gowns.

Wedding dresses are also cumbersome heirlooms. Some people may preserve their gowns in acid-free boxes, which is a nice tradition if you live in a home with lots of storage, that you never plan to leave. Otherwise, it will be one more thing to carry around as you move through life. And forget about saving it for your kids. Your offspring may not fit into yours or may prefer a different style for their gown.

Finally, don't get pressured into making a deal. With all the pressure to find the "perfect" dress, it's not uncommon for women to find themselves buying more than one, because the style of the dress doesn't match their venue or because they make a hasty decision at a sale that they regret later.

With that in mind, here's some great options for purchasing an inexpensive wedding dress that you will love:

Continue reading "Cheap wedding dresses: something old, something new-with-tags" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 11:17 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Shopping
        

Take $5 off online Target purchases of $50 or more with coupon via momsview.com. Valid through Saturday, June 27.

Get a free 12-oz. Seattle's Best Coffee beverage at Borders stores through July 2, via Miss Bargainista.

And sign up for a free sample of Yoplait Whips yogurt, thanks to TheSavvyShopper.

The site recommends that you try the product frozen, which forces me to ask: has anyone ever tried to freeze yogurt at home? Can it be done either in the container or is an ice cream maker necessary? Could one use the coffee can ice cream maker method?

Posted by Liz Kay at 1:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food, Shopping
        

Filene's Basement will remain open at Baltimore's Inner Harbor now that Syms has been approved as a buyer by a bankruptcy court judge, according to a story by Andrea Walker.

The deal could be approved as early as Thursday, her story states, and they are keeping their assets including employees --- good news for anyone who was dreading the unemployment line.

But Syms wouldn't comment on the deal, so we're left to speculate about what this will mean. I've got two questions: 

Continue reading "Syms buys Filene's Basement" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 8:50 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Shopping
        

Is a Sam's Club $15 summer membership a good deal?

Shanna first told us about it last week. Sign up for the promotion by June 7. With it, you can enjoy Sam's Club deals for 100 days, which should take you through Labor Day and back-to-school shopping.

At 100 days, the seasonal membership only costs 15 cents per day. Sounds good, huh? 

Well, this sounds an awful lot like the 10-weeks-for-$10 special Sam's Club was advertising last October, which we pointed out then ... 

Continue reading "Discounts! Sam's Club summer membership, Restaurant.com" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 12:29 PM | Permalink | Comments (5)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food, Shopping
        

Coupon! Free Baskin-Robbins 31-below with purchase of another regularly priced blended ice cream thing, via dealnews. Coupon good until June 21, but also enjoy 88-cent Baskin-Robbin soft serve cones until Memorial Day. Via dealnews.

Coupon! Save $10 off $50 purchases at DSW in honor of the store's birthday. Thanks, @Juliemore!

Cleaning and refurnishing the house this weekend? Save 50 percent off clearance items at World Market until Monday. Thanks, @KellyBrew!

And save 50 percent off select items at Pottery Barn. Gratzie, @dealnews!

Posted by Liz Kay at 4:10 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Shopping
        

Searching for good deals on items on eBay? This Consumer Web Site of the Week will help you find auctions with fewer bids --- meaning the products could be purchased for way below market value.

It comes recommended by Community Coordinator Carla, who is also a Savvy Shopper. She found the site Typozay, which lets you search for misspelled listings on eBay. As the site description explains, "no one searches for the auctions with typos."

Other sites that perform similar functions include FatFingers and auction-typos.com. If you've got a favorite, please share below.

This technique works on Craigslist, too:

Continue reading "eBay, Craigslist savings tips: Consumer Web Site of the Week" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 9:04 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Shopping
        

Let me just preface this post by saying I love my father.

However ... there were many times as a child when his frugal ways seemed to interfere with my ability to have fun.

Case in point: ice cream. My parents weren't opposed to this frozen treat --- but my dad hated going to an ice cream parlor to get a cone, where back in the 80s it would cost $1.50 or more for a single scoop. Because, you see, you could get an entire half-gallon of ice cream at the supermarket for about $2 (on sale, of course).

The same thing with soda. They didn't deny us the fizzy stuff --- except when we were buying fast food. I always lobbied to stay and play in the playground, but my dad wouldn't want to buy a drink that would cost $1 or more. He preferred to take our meal home, where we could drink soda from the two-liter bottle he got from the supermarket (again, on sale) for 99 cents. 

Continue reading "Frugal dilemmas: the $2 cupcake and other cost comparisons" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 10:38 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Shopping
        

Ah, the dollar store. Usually 99 cent emporiums offer a varied and eclectic collection of products for sale, some of somewhat dubious provenance. How do you decide what's worth the investment, and what is worthlesss --- or even dangerous?

MSN Money has compiled a slideshow of dollar-store deals and duds, praising selections of ...

Continue reading "Dollar store bargains: Cheap Trick Thursday" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 9:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Shopping
        

Get your summer reading now, with great coupons from Borders and Barnes & Noble!

Bob's Deals tweeted about Borders savings --- coupons for a free 12 oz. Seattle's Best drink (not only coffee) at Borders Cafes as well as 40 percent off a Borders book purchase --- via Spoofee. The book coupon expires tomorrow (Saturday) so act fast! You've got a while on the coffee, though --- drink up through Wednesday.

And a 20 percent off Barnes & Noble coupon for online purchases has been circulating for a while, thanks to the Good Deal Gal.

Posted by Liz Kay at 10:59 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food, Shopping
        

Rite Aid, Barnes & Noble and Naturalizer coupons to use this weekend or beyond!

* Save $5 off $25 purchase with this Rite Aid printable coupon, via Spoofee. Expires April 30. 

* Take 10 percent off one item online or in stores with this Barnes & Noble coupon, through April 12. Thanks to daddyodeals.com.

* Save 30 percent off online with this Naturalizer coupon code from April 9 through April 12, via MrDealFinder.

* And it might be a little late for Easter or Passover crafts, but check out these JoAnn Fabrics coupons for 40 or 50 percent off a single item, courtesy of shoppingguru.com and stock up for next year. Expires April 11 through 15.

Posted by Liz Kay at 2:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Shopping
        

Snap up Tax Day freebies to reward yourself for completing the task by April 15!

We told you Tuesday about free McDonalds McCafe coffee on Tax Day.

But the folks at Walletpop.com have compiled a list of other free April 15 stuff, including:

Continue reading "Tax Day freebies: more Cheap Trick Thursday" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 10:56 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Shopping, Taxes
        

Put your haggling skills to work in these three situations and you might get what you need for a lot less.

What's the key to negotiating? Be nice, respectful and realistic, said one business owner in a Marketplace Money story about bargaining in retail stores:

She says start by asking if there's any flexibility on the price. And don't forget to smile and maintain eye contact as you wheel and deal.

But where is it wise to negotiate a price? Americans are accustomed to haggling when it's clear there's a commission involved, such as on a new car or furniture. But what about ...

Continue reading "Negotiate in 3 unexpected places: Cheap Trick Thursday" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 7:41 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Banks, Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Healthcare, Personal finance, Shopping
        

Fatwallet coupon search now lets you sort through the site's great deals to find the discounts you need. It will come in handy the next time you hit "proceed to checkout" and gaze longingly at the box to enter a promotion code. Thanks to Lifehacker for the tip, which points out the search is similar to the one over at RetailMeNot.

I found another useful resource ...

Continue reading "Fatwallet coupon search: Consumer Web Site of the Week" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 10:50 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Shopping
        

Try this Sports Authority coupon for $25 off a purchase of $100 or more, valid through April 4, whether you're stocking up for spring or summer sports or just need a new pair of sneakers or workout gear. Read the fine print to find a code valid for online purchases as well.

 Thanks to twitter user willyredeemed for sharing the tip.

Posted by Liz Kay at 4:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Shopping
        

Be sure to check out Recession Tales, The Sun's look at how people are cutting back during these tough economic times. They'll be archived on the Riding Out the Recession page (just scroll down).

Take a look at the story by Patrick Gutierrez about golfers who are saving cash but still hitting the links and Bill Ordine's story about families cutting costs of athletic gear.

I'd missed this story ... 

Continue reading "Recession tales: more Cheap Trick Thursday" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 12:23 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Shopping
        

Grocery auctions are the newest way bargain hunters in states like Texas, Ohio and Pennsylvania are saving on food, according to the Associated Press.

We told you before about salvage grocers up in Pennsylvania that deal in products that are close to or beyond their manufacturers' suggested "best-by" date, which ensures best quality but not food safety. These stores also deal in items discontinued due to seasonal or promotional packaging, bulk foods and more. 

Now, some salvage dealers have gone a step further ...

Continue reading "Bid on your dinner at grocery auctions" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 8:22 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Economy, Food, Shopping
        

Here's some coupons to help you through the weekend:

--- 40 percent off a single item at Borders or Waldenbooks bookstores, valid today through March 28, courtesy of Dealnews. Hey, did you hear there are rumors Borders might go bankrupt?

--- Click around at www.oldnavyweekly.com to find Old Navy coupons valid through April 2. 

--- $5 off a $50 order at Home Depot with the code DEPOT49, courtesy of CouponTweet. UPDATED: just to be clear, this coupon is for HomeDepot.com.

Posted by Liz Kay at 4:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Shopping
        

Some shopping malls in Maryland, including Towson Town Center, The Mall in Columbia and Westfield Annapolis, are limiting store hours to save money, writes Andrea Walker, who covers retail on the business desk.

Other big-box retailers are also cutting back. Barnes and Noble in Towson and Ellicott City are closing an hour earlier, according to her story. And this is just a small difference, but the Borders bookstore in Timonium now stops selling food and coffee in its cafe an hour earlier on weeknights.

I was definitely surprised by this news, especially since Towson Town Center just opened a new addition with high-end stores.

You might wonder whether this is a wise move in a struggling economy when fewer people are making purchases at all, but for some shopping centers lowering the cost of staffing and utilities could mean the difference between a store closing for good, analysts told Andrea.

Not every shopping center is switching things up. Arundel Mills and Marley Station Mall, both in Anne Arundel County, are maintaining the same hours.

I'm wondering ...

Continue reading "Malls shortening operating hours to save money" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 9:01 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Economy, Shopping
        

Double-coupon savings at Kmart through Saturday, March 28! Check the Kmart Web site to ensure your local store circular includes the special.

Save twice as much as you would redeeming coupons at other stores by doubling them up to and including $2. Thanks to Money Saving Madness for the heads up.

Posted by Liz Kay at 1:24 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Food, Shopping
        

Shocking! Several Burlington Coat Factory stores in Connecticut were caught by a local TV news station selling men's coats supposedly by "famous makers" such as Perry Ellis. Except, these fake fancy labels were just sewn over tags showing they were from Walmart!

Burlington Coat Factory ended up pulling the entire shipment of coats from stores nationwide according to the story, discovered via Consumerist.

Posted by Liz Kay at 6:03 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Naughty businesses/NBotW, Shopping
        

Snap up this free trial for Sam's Club, one day only, courtesy of Allstate, discovered via A Steal of a Deal. Register to receive the e-mailed coupon, which expires March 31.

But don't go crazy: we've told you before to watch what you spend at warehouse stores --- avoid the impulse buys!

Here are Consumer Reports' tips on warehouse store shopping.

Posted by Liz Kay at 12:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (6)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Food, Shopping
        

Baltimoresun.com now has a way to compare grocery store sales online. The Grocery Guide allows you to browse and compare supermarket circulars from around the region and create a personalized grocery list.

It's an option to start your meal-planning and coupon-stacking. You can click the "details" button to get a price history for the product.

Two things you should know: 

Continue reading "Compare supermarket circulars online" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 7:28 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Food, Shopping
        

Readers, this week we're looking for cheap wine events and sales: inexpensive tasting flights and discounts off cases or other deals that help stretch your wining-and-dining dollar.

Free or cheap wine tastings are an inexpensive entertainment option that can be educational for your mind and your palate. And, a quality bargain wine found at a local store or winery would be an excellent accompaniment to a meal at home.

Please share your favorite destinations for oenological research,

Continue reading "Seeking cheap tricks: free or cheap wine tastings & bargains" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 5:04 AM | Permalink | Comments (7)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food, Shopping
        

Excellent Eileen tackles an intriguing topic on Sunday: why some people are savers despite modest incomes, while others can't save a penny even on healthy salaries.

I'm not sure whether nature or nurture has a bigger impact on developing a frugal philosophy. However, you often hear stories about how living through the Great Depression, when people had to quit high school because they couldn't afford the socks (check out episode 3). It made people appreciate what they had and taught them not to waste anything. They fixed broken things and reused everything before recycling was trendy.

Anyone believe the current economic climate will help people form frugal habits they will practice for a lifetime? Check out what Eileen thinks on Sunday.

And as for Watchdog, we see how long it takes for someone trying to be a good neighbor to succeed in his quest to remove a handicapped parking space that his family no longer needs.

This week we're ending on a public service announcement:

Continue reading "Consumer Sundays: how do people develop frugal habits, and reserved handicapped spaces" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 4:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Personal finance, Shopping, Watchdog
        

Buy two books for a penny each at bookcloseouts.com today through Thursday, Feb. 26.

Here's the list of 50 titles available for one cent each, a bargain-basement price. The limit is two books, and you'll have to pay regular (but cheap) shipping charges. I'm seeing a lot of non-fiction but if you're a reader it'd be worth checking out.

Thanks to ConsumerWorld for the tip. 

Posted by Liz Kay at 4:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Shopping
        

Rite Aid coupons today and tomorrow (Fri., Feb. 20 and Sat. Feb. 21), courtesy of Money-Saving Mom!

Save $10 off $30 of any Rite Aid purchases, except stuff like prescriptions and gift cards. Apparently it's Customer Appreciation Week, or Month.

Loyal reader Evan told us about a similar deal two weeks ago, but  we only put it out over the Consuming Interests Twitter feed. Don't forget to follow us in the widget on the right-hand rail for additional tips.

Posted by Liz Kay at 10:12 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Shopping
        

Only 10 days left of my No Buy month. And I'm thinking about what's next.

Maybe I'll adopt a full-time frugal lifestyle. Doesn't seem as though I'd be the only one. With the economy in the tank, there are plenty of opportunities for low-cost spenders to have a good time, including a show Friday at the Hippodrome sponsored by Jack Daniel's (for all you drinkers out there). The skinny on this is at the end of the post. 

On the other end of the spectrum -- The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) "For Your Marriage" Web site offers ten suggestions for cheap, romantic dates, from planning an indoor "picnic" to "midnight bowling." I'm not sure the bishops are experts on how to get women, but still.

As for me, the first thing I'm going to cut back ...

Continue reading "No-Buy Month Spending Challenge Day 18: self-examination" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 4:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Shopping
        

Introducing a new feature: Don't Waste Your Money, where we will occasionally chronicle the most ridiculous products available for sale. (Snuggie, anyone? Or perhaps you already wear your bathrobe backwards?)

Feel free to send us your suggestions and welcome guest writer Jill Rosen as she considers a new version of a toy that seemed just fine in its original form.

In a queasy economy that has families learning to do without and retailers struggling to appeal to people’s newly practical instincts, one company is swimming obliviously upstream.

The maker of the Rubik’s Cube, one of the most iconic toys of the 80s, is coming out with a "touch" version — a game exactly like the old-school plastic square except instead of twisting it by hand, you move the pieces with a brush of your fingertip, as if you were making an iPhone call.

And instead of it being a stocking-stuffer, the new toy is somehow a near-luxury item.

According to a glowing release from maker Techno Source, Rubik’s TouchCube debuts at the American International Toy Fair this week. The company boasts they’ve had people working on the electronic edition for the last three years "with engineering teams on two different continents." They call it "the dream cube."

Said dream cube features such nifty advances as ...

Continue reading "Don't Waste Your Money: Rubik's TouchCube" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 12:54 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Shopping, Technology
        

As the No-Buy Month progresses, Brent learns to make the most of purchases of goods and services he's already made. Unfortunately, those amusements fade quickly. --- lfk. 

I've focused primarily on food but as you all know, my No-Buy covers entertainment and shopping as well.

Occupying my time when I'm away from work without spending money is equally daunting. If I had a wife and kids, my time would be filled rather easily. But since I have no such responsibilities at night, I have to make my own fun.

This past weekend ...

Continue reading "No-Buy Month Spending Challenge Day 10: boredom" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 4:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Shopping
        

Baltimore's newest Goodwill store is a "boutique" thrift shop (2nd item) that boasts more brand names and higher-end items, writes Sun columnist Jean Marbella.

According to her Sunday piece,

The Baltimore shop, at 1 N. Poppleton St., has been a bit of an insider's secret since its "soft" opening on Jan. 21, although the buzz is growing, particularly among West Baltimoreans and the University of Maryland, Baltimore set (the boutique is in one of the campus' new biotech park buildings). But with a grand opening scheduled for Thursday morning, the competition for the Brooks Brothers jackets, the Enzo Angiolini pumps and the Faconnable shirts might get a little more fierce.

Has anyone been there yet? Jean's review offered tantalizing details ...

Continue reading "Baltimore Goodwill goes Gucci" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 1:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Shopping
        

Thanks for all the comments and suggestions on the post introducing our No-Buy Month Spending Challenge volunteer, folks. Here's a little more about Brent and why he's embarking on this mission. --- lfk.

I'm up to Day 5 of No-Buy month and have yet to spend more than $1.50 on my daily drink from the vending machine. Before I go any further though, let me give a little background.

As suspected by some, I am not married and do not have any kids. I'm 32 years old and have been working for The Sun for more than nine years now.

Even though I'm getting older and am long removed from school, I often times find myself living the life of a college sophomore -- meaning I rarely do laundry, hardly cook, hang out at bars and restaurants multiple times a week and stand by idly while my apartment becomes a disorganized mess.

I need a little structure. And frankly, in this time of uncertainty in my field, I better figure out how to live within a budget in case I really have to.

So, I'm attacking my soft spot -- eating out. The last straw?

Continue reading "No-Buy Month Spending Challenge Day 5: rationale" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 7:58 AM | Permalink | Comments (5)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Shopping
        

Coupons can save you money on food and products you need if you use them effectively.

Whether you clip 'n save the discounts from your newspaper or print them online coupons, you're bound to find the promise of savings for at least one or two items that is already on your shopping list.

But wait! you say. Aren't store brands always cheaper? And aren't coupons only offered for unhealthy prepared foods?

Not necessarily, on both accounts --- especially if you follow the strategy of frequent commenter and coupon maven Holly, who has shared her Target coupon strategies with Consuming Interests readers in the past.

As a mother of young children, she saves a lot with diaper and baby wipes coupons. And even if you make all your food from scratch, there are plenty of coupons for personal care items such as shampoo, soap, deodorant, toothbrushes and the like ... stuff most of us don't live without.

Holly "stacks" her manufacturer's coupons, waiting until an item goes on sale or when a store like Target offers a coupon itself. Then, she uses both the store discount and redeems her coupons for even greater savings. Those discounts can make name brand products even cheaper than store brands.

She recently e-mailed me when she discovered ...

Continue reading ""Stack" coupons for maximum benefit" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 10:57 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food, Shopping
        

This has been a week of commemorating historic achievements of our past and contemplation on how our lives will change in the future --- socially, politically, economically.

But one group wants to set our country's financial future back on track by returning to ways of the past.

As I first discovered via Frugal Babe, the Templeton Foundation Press is trying to revive National Thrift Week, a celebration of all things frugal that started in 1916 when our country was on the brink of war and continued through the 1960s.

The Library of Congress's study of the National Thrift Movement points out that the movement was sponsored by groups you might expect, such as the Boy Scouts of America and the American Home Economics Association, as well as some you might not, such as the National Retail Dry Goods Association, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the Associated Advertising Clubs of the World.

The week was tied to ...

Continue reading "Cheap Trick Thursday: Thrift Week" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 6:07 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food, Greenies, Shopping
        

There were lines and heavy traffic all over the nation Tuesday. On the East Coast, it was for President Barack Obama's inauguration but on the Left Coast, they were waiting for free beauty products.

The spoils of a $175 million settlement of a class-action lawsuit against cosmetic companies were first available yesterday, Jan. 20, but former customers who were burned by the prices of department-store beauty aids can continue to pick them up while supplies last.

Here's a list of products you'd be able to pick up at Bloomingdales, Macy's or Nordstrom:

Continue reading "Pick up free beauty product through cosmetics settlement" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 4:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Shopping
        

Consumer updates for your mid-afternoon perusing:

1. It's official: Circuit City is liquidating stock at its remaining stores. But are liquidation sales a good deal? Not necessarily, according to this Chicago Tribune columnist. Be sure to comparison shop and confirm you're getting the best price.

And beware, because you won't be able to return products to a defunct retailer.

2. Christian Bernard Jewelers, which has several Montgomery County locations, has declared bankruptcy. The CT Watchdog at the Hartford Courant posted pun-laden quotes from the Connecticut Attorney General warning about Christian Bernard Jewelers.

3. Did you sign up for the cosmetics settlement? I did, and got an e-mail last week instructing me which free cosmetic products I can pick up ... on Jan. 20, which happens to be Inauguration Day. For people in this area who will be navigating presidential traffic, good luck picking yours up. Folks elsewhere, enjoy your Clarins Beauty Flash Bomb (I think they meant Clarins Beauty Flash *Balm*).

4. Sorry about the free coffee tease earlier this week, but here's a better offer for U.S. residents. Get a free Krispy Kreme doughnut on Inauguration Day.

(photo: Lloyd Fox/Baltimore Sun)

Posted by Liz Kay at 1:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Shopping
        

Folks, I have an amazing cheap tip for you! You should all go rush out and buy lots of stuff, when it's discounted 6 percent!

Sorry about the sarcasm above, but you *won't* save a lot of money if the National Retail Federation gets its way and finagles three tax holidays in 2009.

Sun business columnist and blogger Jay Hancock describes them as one of many industry groups advocating for a government bailout, this time in the form of 10-day tax-free shopping stints.

Seriously, there are unfortunately many things that make me shake my fist in the air in aggravation --- adjacent strip malls with bad pedestrian access between them, licorice in my herbal tea, inconsiderate street parkers --- and sales tax holidays are high on that list.

Sales taxes were *not* what prevented people from shelling out big bucks during the holiday season, and stuff was marked down in some cases as much as 75 to 80 percent! So why buy stuff when it's only discounted 6 percent --- the state's sales tax rate?!

It's not even that great a deal for retailers, and especially not for the federal government, Hancock says: 

Continue reading "Retail industry lobbying for tax-free shopping holidays" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 6:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Shopping, Taxes
        

What are your plans for the day after Christmas?

Dec. 26 may be a Friday but it may not get retailers into the Black, despite desperately slashed prices.

Still, some people will definitely be out with an infusion of Christmas cash and gift cards. 

I'm curious --- did anyone put off big purchases or even postpone gift exchanges in the hopes of taking advantage of post-Christmas discounts? It's a good strategy any year, but if you had the time and/or flexible gift recipients, it seemed especially wise.

Posted by Liz Kay at 7:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Gift cards, Holiday shopping, Shopping
        

Cheap Trick Thursday arrives early this holiday week, to remind you you shouldn't spend an arm and a leg wrapping your presents. Frankly, buying paper for the sole purpose of tearing it off isn't fiscally OR environmentally sound.

But there's definitely important about the custom of gift-giving that requires a disguise of some sort --- the more attractive and unusual the better. You can't skip the reveal!

Instead of buying gift wrap ...

Continue reading "Cheap Trick Thursday: cheap, quick, green wrapping paper and gift wrap ideas" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 2:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Greenies, Holiday shopping, Shopping
        

This year the day after Christmas in 2008 mirrors Black Friday in two ways:

a. Dec. 26 falls on a Friday

b. some stores are offering "doorbuster" specials.

JC Penney will open at 5:30 a.m., for example. Sign up for a JC Penney wake-up call, if you're that kind of shopper, and take advantage of more than 100 specials.

Walmart will be open at 6 a.m. and Target opens from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. at Mondawmin and Towson (call to confirm the hours of your closest Target location).

Crate and Barrel also sent out a circular advertising Dec. 26 sales, according to SlickDeals.

And just like Black Friday, online retailers are trying to clear out their warehouses, particularly seasonal merchandise. Check out ...

Continue reading "Take advantage of after-Christmas sales, discounts and deals in stores and online" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 10:57 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Budgeting, Consumer Web Site of the Week, Holiday shopping, Shopping
        

These days consumers have a lot more options than just paper and plastic when it comes to paying for online purchases.

We told you in yesterday's Sun that services such as eBillme, Bill Me Later, Billeo and PayPal let customers make online payments without using a credit card. Bill Me Later asks for your name and birthday and the last four digits of your Social Security number. Billeo saves your bank account information in a toolbar.

Just FYI: Consumer Reports points out ...

Continue reading "Alternate forms of payment catching on online" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 4:09 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Budgeting, Credit cards, Holiday shopping, Shopping
        

Okay, I confess: it's a week before Christmas and despite the best of intentions, the procrastinator in me won out. I'm waaay farther behind on the gift-giving journey than I should be at this time.

For those like me who still have a few things to buy, there are still some deals to be had. You should always use a search engine to try to find coupons before you buy something online.

This year, the big push seems to be free shipping. At FreeShippingDay.com, participating retailers have agreed to offer free shipping on Thursday, Dec. 18 with guaranteed delivery by Christmas.

Be aware, however ... 

Continue reading "CWSotW: free shipping" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 10:54 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Holiday shopping, Shopping
        

Here's some good news if you're shopping for toys this year.

After recalling more than 21 million tainted toys last year, Mattel Inc. has agreed to a $12 million settlement with 39 states over lead contamination in toys made in China.

Maryland will receive nearly $235,000 as a result.

The toy company will also meet new federal lead standards early, before the regulations take effect next year. Mattel is lowering the acceptable level of lead from 600 parts per million to 90 parts per million.

How are you protecting yourself and your gift recipients from tainted toys this year? 

Continue reading "Naughty Business of the Week: Mattel settles with states over lead-tainted toys" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 11:32 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Consumer safety, Holiday shopping, Recalls, Shopping
        

This holiday season, the Baltimore Animal Rescue & Care Shelter (BARCS) is asking more people whether there's room in their hearts --- and their budgets --- for a family pet.

Too many adoptable dogs and cats are being dropped off at the shelter each day. Some are dropped off by people driving U-Hauls, said Jennifer Mead-Brause, the shelter's executive director.

But fewer people are adopting and smaller shelters suffering financial hardships can't take them all, either.

According to today's story, the shelter has waived adoption fees for dogs and cats 2 years and older, and is offering dogs and cats ages 7 months to 2 years for $10. Younger animals are available for the regular rate of $65.

Continue reading "Adopt a pet at a discount" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 1:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Holiday shopping, Shopping
        

I've been planning on writing about giving used or second-hand gifts this year, but Erin Huffstetler and BabyCheapskate beat me to it.

Is it out of the question? Do you preach the benefits of avoiding materialism, or do you just gloss over the fact that an item is not new?

For example: about six years years ago, my tiny nephew really wanted a Game Boy. He was very little. I was very practical.

So, instead of purchasing a brand new Game Boy Advance, I went on eBay and bought him an old-school, original Game Boy. You know, the model that first came out in 1989?

When Nephew ripped open the wrapping to reveal the gift Game Boy, the room grew silent.

Continue reading "Frugal dilemmas: giving second-hand gifts or regifting this year?" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 10:24 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Holiday shopping, Shopping
        

... or just those looking to save a little cash in these trying times.

Chosen carefully, presents you deliver to your friends and loved ones may help them save money all year long.

Consider an attractive insulated bag or bento box to encourage someone to bring lunch from home more often. A reusable water bottle or insulated travel mug will help people to avoid dropping $4 on refreshment when the 4 o'clock slump hits. Package them with some good coffee or intriguing tea bags to personalize the gift.

Or how about making weeknight meal assembly a little easier with a crockpot, as Erin Huffstetler recommends on her Frugal Living blog? Knowing you have a pot of a warm and hearty dish bubbling on your countertop eases the temptation to order takeout or just go out to eat after a long day at work. Check out these slow cooker and crock pot reviews at Consumer Reports so you don't buy an appliance that won't get used. Consider including some non-perishable ingredients or your favorite slow cooking recipes to inspire your chef.

Others might appreciate a gift card to ease the pain of those little expenses that creep up --- for car maintenance such as oil changes, gas cards for fill ups and the like. What about postage stamps, particularly the Forever stamps that will always be valid? I can think of one or two people who are always running out ...

You'll also win with gift certificates or cards for the little treats that frugal folks have avoided, such as movie tickets, spa treatments or (gasp) fancy coffee drinks. A little indulgence once in a while helps maintain resolve in the interim.

Bankrate.com recommends 12 recession-proof gifts, including the gift of health --- either new sneakers or workout gear, or a subscription to yoga or other exercise classes.

And then there are gifts that save energy ... 

Continue reading "Cheap Trick Thursday: frugal gifts for frugal people " »

Posted by Liz Kay at 7:23 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Holiday shopping, Shopping