The WRONG Impression

Guest Post: Lindsey at Saving $en$e

Okay... many people who do not use coupons get the wrong impression about us "Crazy Couponers!" They tend to think that we buy cat food or other things we don't need or use just because we have a coupon... Not true-- Not true at All! The only time I buy something I don't need or use is if I can get it for free or if  I am going to be paid to take it out of the store! Then I donate it!! I am not a hoarder! Nor will I ever become one!
     "What do you do with all that free toothpaste?"-- A question that we are frequently asked-- The answer: Donate it! Operation Christmas Child!! Boys (ages 11-14) tend to get less boxes, since most people like to buy for the little girls and younger age boys. My goal this year is to fill at least 5, possibly 10 boxes for that age category! I say that, not to brag, but for accountability. Bar soap, deodorant,  and toothbrushes are other FREE items that would be great to fill these boxes with. It's not too early to start stocking up... It will be here before you know it!

You Decide What You Pay

Guest Post: Lindsey at Saving $en$e

     We cannot control the economy, or the weather, but what we can control is what we pay for groceries!  Forget the negativity, and focus on what we CAN control! Make a decision-- Get your coupons, Learn the ropes, and get organized! Once you're in the driver's seat, then you are in control!
      Don't buy an item just because you have a coupon... Watch your store's sale cycles and stock up when the items are at their lowest sale price. By stock up, I do not mean to take over your children's bedrooms in order to store boxes of cereal or jars of pickles that you will never eat! Stock up only means to buy enough to last your family for about 6 weeks! That's all! Remember to keep it in perspective. For example.... no one needs 30 taco kits (unless of course, you have a really HUGE family, or that's all you eat!) Most families only eat tacos about once a week, or less... Therefore, you will only need to purchase 4-6 taco kits. Why should you stock up? It makes much more sense to buy  taco kits when they are on sale for $1, than it does to go back when you need another and then end up paying $4 for one kit! Don't you agree? Another example is laundry detergent... I would rather buy 2 or 3 bottles when it is on sale for $2.99, than go to the store when I need it, and end up paying $9.99! But that's just me... You decide what you are willing to pay!

How NOT to go CrAzY at Checkout

Guest Post: Lindsey at Saving $en$e

Your first shopping trips as a "CrAzY CoUpOn GiRl" (CCG) may be a little.... Should I say?... STRESSFUL! However, The more prepared you are beforehand, the easier it will be! And as soon as you push the cart out of the store after your first successful trip, and you experience that "high", you'll be hooked for good!

I have a few tips that will ensure that you are totally prepared:
1. Get Organized.
Make a list of what you want to buy.
(Include the item, price, and quantity).
Make sure that coupons are clipped, organized, & easy to get to.
2. Choose wisely the time of day that you shop.
Don't shop during the daily rush hour, if possible. 
You (and your checker) will be less stressed if there is not a line behind you.
I've found the best times to shop are early morning, early afternoon, or late night.
3. Just for moms:
Of course, It is much easier without the kiddos in tow.
However, that is not always the case.
So make sure they  have something to keep themselves occupied, so that you can stay focused.
4. Be friendly to your cashier.
Let them know that you will be using coupons.
If you planning on doing multiple transactions, let your cashier know. And ask if that's okay?
More than likely, they will be fine with it. I also tell them that I will get back in line, if I need to.
5. Cashier Profiling: Yes I do!
When I get ready to check out, I scan all of the available checkers to decide who will be a good one.
Judge me if you want, but if there are young, male checkers available... I go to them every time! They are generally easy-going and low maintenance. And I don't have to worry about explaining every word of fine print. They are usually impressed with our coupon savings, and want to know how to do it. While others, might be skeptical, thinking that the savings are too good to be true, so we must be trying to scam. I also don't want to go to anyone who looks miserable, or who is not smiling. (I don't want anyone to take their bad day out on my coupons!) So, YES I PROFILE! Once you become a regular, you will know whom to go to, and the good checkers will know you by name.
6. Store policy
Know your store's coupon policy, and keep a copy with you. Don't be afraid to show it off. Many times checkers are unaware of their store's policy. So keep this with you, and if any issues arise, you won't be too nervous to stand up for yourself. The best way to get what you want, is to bulk up on knowledge, and leave your ego at the door.

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Start out small. 

Be Patient and friendly. 

Expect the best, but plan for the worst.