The secrets to unleashing your inner bargain guru
Stick to a list, take breaks and map out your day to survive the retail mayhem
Get out those holiday gift lists and start planning because Black Friday is fast approaching.
The bargain bonanza, happening Nov. 25, has become one of the most anticipated shopping events in Canada and continues to gain momentum, with consumers looking for deep discounts on everything from clothing and accessories to electronics, toys, books and music.
To score the deepest discounts, it’s smart to map out your mission early, say the experts.
“Make sure you go armed with a list,” advises shopping guru, Cathie Mostowyk, president of the Shoe- string Shopping Guide (shoestringshopping.com). “If you’re setting aside $1,000 for holiday shopping, you really need to have a list so you don’t blow your budget. Keeping to a budget is the tough part about shopping — it’s easy to get caught up in the deals and the holiday spirit, so go at it as a prepared shopper.”
She adds consumers should research products ahead of time, particularly before purchasing a new camera, phone, TV or other electronics.
And while many will be on the lookout for sales on stylish new garb, on the big day, think comfort and pragmatism.
“Wear your most comfortable outfit,” says Mostowyk.
“Don’t dress for fashion. You don’t want to wear high heels.
“Make sure you bring water and make regular trips out to the car. Don’t try to carry it all. If you can, leave your coat in the car. And if you see something you want, don’t wait. If you go back, it might be gone.”
Mostowyk also suggests bringing along a friend and making a fun day out of it, perhaps stopping for lunch and taking mini breaks throughout the day.
Canadian music publicist, Paula Danylevich is a seasoned Black Friday enthusiast.
For more than a decade, she travelled to the States, where Black Friday began.
By now, Danylevich knows how to tackle the day like a pro. She packs water and snacks and drinks a few “chai lattes” throughout the day to keep her energy up.
“I spend a lot of time preparing,” she says. “I will print a map of the mall, highlight the stores I want to hit, and will call them in advance to find out what time they are opening . . . I always set a budget and try to stick to it.”
While Danylevich says she mainly shops for shoes, handbags, eyewear and other fashion accessories, she also buys presents for others.
“I can get 99 per cent of my Christmas shopping done in one day,” she says. “For that I don’t keep a list because you never know what you will find on sale. If I am shopping for others I’m always looking for the per- fect gift for each person, something that really speaks to me that I know they will love.”
Finally, get in a good head space with “a good night’s sleep and a healthy breakfast,” says Michael E. LeBlanc, senior vice-president of membership, programs and revenue with the Retail Council of Canada.
“When everybody’s thinking about shopping on the same day, that’s a fun thing,” LeBlanc says.
“Bringing a great positive attitude is probably the best way to prepare. It’s going to be busy. It’s going to be fun. And it’s going to be loud.”