Research, look around home to celebrate Halloween on a budget
Whether you are decorating your home and yard or purchasing costumes and candy, there are ways to keep the fun stylish and on budget during times of inflation.
The Better Business Bureau of Greater Houston and South Texas recommends the following tips this Halloween:
Always check the return policy. Seasonal pop-up shops carry unique home decor items and costumes for a short period of time in a temporary location or online. When shopping this type of vendor, understand the store’s return policy before making a purchase. Find out how long the receipt must be kept, or what happens if the receipt is misplaced. This will help avoid mishaps like unwanted, broken, or faulty items being non-refundable. Ask the owner if there is a website in case you must contact them later. Make sure you are clear on what items are marked “final sale.”
Research the company. Before you make a seasonal home decor or costume purchase, check out the business’ history with the Better Business Bureau and read any complaint or customer reviews at BBBHouston.org. If you are hiring a business to install Halloween lighting or displays at your home, it is also important to check out the contractor. Ask friends for family members for references on businesses they have used to help with seasonal decor.
Look around your home. Check your closet for a homemade costume. There are hidden surprises to throw together a killer costume or you may use decorations from previous years. Using what you already have will not only help save money but save space too.
Rent a costume. If the idea of spending money on buying a costume isn’t quite appealing because it will only be worn once, consider renting. Renting a costume leaves room in the budget, and it truly is only temporary. Check the store policy regarding trying on costumes, inspect the condition of the costume, and read the rental agreement carefully before signing anything.
Buy in bulk. It may seem counterintuitive, but buying more can save you money. Buying in bulk lessens the cost per item and per ounce. This can be especially handy on a night like Halloween, when there might be more trickor-treaters out this year. Factorywrapped candy will last even if not all of it is handed out.
Shop smart online. When shopping from an online website, the first step is to make sure the URL starts with “https” and includes a lock symbol. The S in “https” stands for secure. Look up the website’s privacy policy and contact information. If it is not clearly listed, or they only have an email as the point of contact, take that as a big red flag and shop elsewhere.
Also, be sure to use your credit card instead of your debit card, as credit cards not only provide additional protection, but it’s also easier to dispute a fraudulent charge.
Visit www.bbbhouston.org or call 713868-9500. Leah Napoliello is BBB VP of operations. Send questions to Leah Napoliello, Better Business Bureau, 1333 West Loop South, Suite 1200, Houston, TX 77027, or e-mail lnapoliello@bbbhou.org with address and phone number.