I love it.
I really love it. I have developed a strategy that has worked wonders over the years. And now I am going to share it with you. First of all, I don't really Christmas shop on black Friday. I shop for myself. For me it takes away most of the stress and is just the most fun shopping day of the year! I enjoy the crowds, meeting people in line, finding amazing deals. These are three things I do not really enjoy on any other shopping day. Well, I like finding amazing deals, but I am not willing to put in the work.
So, that is what you should know about me. I am a snobby shopper. I hate stores like Ross, Marshal, TJMax. Ugh, shoot me now. I know there are amazing gems in the junk at these stores, but I just don't have the patience. But one day a year I am willing to enjoy bargain shopping, mostly because the stores make it so easy.
I have discovered the perfect time to go shopping on black Friday. I have tested my theory in Virginia, Utah, Oregon, and Idaho. So far it has passed the test in these four states at several different malls. Now that is another thing you should know. I like to mall shop that day. I avoid the big superstores and electronic stores. I'm sorry, but that is where the crazies are headed. Most days if I make it to the mall it is with some kids in tow, and I have to get in and get out in record time. Black Friday is my day to hit any and every store I want.
Now, the perfect time. There is a secret window of shopping time. It is between 9am and noon. The crazies are heading out by then because they have been there since 4am. And the families that are sleeping in start to arrive around noon. Most early bird specials last until 11am, some even until 1pm. So you are getting the same deals as the crazies that showed up at 4am. You can find a parking spot easily, and there are usually not lines at checkout.
I realize that some of you are ready to write comments defending the crazies. Because you are one of them, and it is the only way to get the best deals. Fine. You might be right. But do you love black Friday as much as me? Are you having as much blissful fun as me? Pleasantly strolling and enjoying every moment of the holiday shopping experience? I refuse to race someone to the back of the store for that perfect deal. How about you?
5 comments:
Brilliant.
I am so glad you wrote this! Last year I went at 4 am to a big store to get a Nano for Josh: first time I've ever been in line at a store in the dark. It was surprisingly festive and fun but I really didn't save that much. I like your approach much better. It does actually sound fun!
That's awesome! I cannot bring myself to do the whole black Friday thing mostly because I had to work at Fred Meyer at 5AM and deal with the crazies. I do like your idea. You should come to Seattle and test your theory here. I'd definitely go with you.
I've never been shopping on black friday but I really want to this year with Sally. I tried to convince her today but she said there is zero shopping in pocatello. Which is pretty much true but I still want to hit a few stores like freddy's or something. Your advice was very helpful. But my take is I'm up with Hunter anyway at 4 am I might as well go to a store.
I really like your approach Molly... I have a fear of black Friday and no desire to fight the crazies. Plus, I am lazy and must have my sleep. I'm going to put your strategy to the test next year. Hope you have a Merry Christmas!
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