Ever wonder how to score added savings? Online shopping is a great way to save cash! If you search hard enough, you can usually find free shipping, or enough online savings, that it cancels out shipping cost. Where do you look?
The most effective method, is to google the store name you are looking for with the words "coupon code" or "promo code." A number of specialized coupon and promo sites will pop up.
I've found the best to be:
www.retailmenot.com - My favorite thing about this site, is it allows you to sign up for notifications for specific stores. Whenever someone adds a coupon code for the store you want, they will email you immediately. It typically has the most up to date coupons.
Here are some other great sites.
http://www.bargainist.com
http://www.couponloco.com
http://www.couponmountain.com
http://www.couponchief.com
http://www.momsview.com
http://www.couponcabin.com/
New sites are constantly added, so if you can't find what you are looking for, stick with the "google method."
Another way to make sure you are receiving notifications of sales and coupons is to sign up for your favorite store's email list. I suggest opening a second email account for your "junk" mail. Although most stores do have privacy policies that won't sell your information, they may send you information out every single day which can get a bit tedious.
Good luck!
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Double Cash Back "Cyber Monday 2" is here for online Christmas shoppers!!!
Wanting to cash in on your online purchases this holiday? Ebates is offering a promotional Cyber Monday 2 where over 400 stores are offering double cash back.
The big one of the day is 51% cash back at Magazines.com for those of you who waited to renew or stuff your loved ones stockings. If you use the promo code holidaymags you will get an immediate $5 off many top titles.
Wanting to make a personalized gift? Start through ebates and go to the Personalization mall for 15% cash back and use their published 10% immediate savings promo code.
Stores like Origins (8%), NFL Shop (10%), Old Navy (8%), Petco (12%), Yves Rocher (40%), Adidas (12%) and many many others are sure to please the toughest folks on your shopping list.
Sign up, get $5 CASH after your first $25 purchase, and watch your savings accrue. Checks are sent every quarter!
http://www.ebates.com/rf.do?referrerid=NtXcEA0giYHMBJoCvVeqbg%3D%3D
Merry Christmas!
The big one of the day is 51% cash back at Magazines.com for those of you who waited to renew or stuff your loved ones stockings. If you use the promo code holidaymags you will get an immediate $5 off many top titles.
Wanting to make a personalized gift? Start through ebates and go to the Personalization mall for 15% cash back and use their published 10% immediate savings promo code.
Stores like Origins (8%), NFL Shop (10%), Old Navy (8%), Petco (12%), Yves Rocher (40%), Adidas (12%) and many many others are sure to please the toughest folks on your shopping list.
Sign up, get $5 CASH after your first $25 purchase, and watch your savings accrue. Checks are sent every quarter!
http://www.ebates.com/rf.do?referrerid=NtXcEA0giYHMBJoCvVeqbg%3D%3D
Merry Christmas!
Monday, December 6, 2010
Comparison Shop From the Comfort of Your Own Home
Unsure where the best deals are? All of that information is at the tip of your fingertips. Whether you use Google, Bing or pretty much any other search engine, there are normally tabs to assist you in surfing the web. You can look for images, news, web topics, shopping, etc
I typically use Google, so I will use that as an example. Type the item you want into the google bar. Look to the upper left side of your screen. It says "web, images, maps, news, shopping, mail, more."
Hit the shopping tab.
A new screen will pop up that will provide you with the starting price at numerous stores. If you want to keep something in a certain budget look to your left. There is a comprehensive guide that will allow you to sort by free shipping, new (not used) items, narrow your price bracket, the materials the items in made of, sizes or features, and nearby stores.
Click the item you want and all the stores that carry it will pop up offering you an easy comparison. You can sort from cheapest price including shipping, base price and more. This feature will also allow you to distinguish if the item is brand new, used or refurbished to prevent any surprises. It will also list the shipping price and total price (including shipping) so you know exactly what your final price will be.
Happy Shopping!
Please refer to my early posts on how to save extra money and get cash back while shopping online.
I typically use Google, so I will use that as an example. Type the item you want into the google bar. Look to the upper left side of your screen. It says "web, images, maps, news, shopping, mail, more."
Hit the shopping tab.
A new screen will pop up that will provide you with the starting price at numerous stores. If you want to keep something in a certain budget look to your left. There is a comprehensive guide that will allow you to sort by free shipping, new (not used) items, narrow your price bracket, the materials the items in made of, sizes or features, and nearby stores.
Click the item you want and all the stores that carry it will pop up offering you an easy comparison. You can sort from cheapest price including shipping, base price and more. This feature will also allow you to distinguish if the item is brand new, used or refurbished to prevent any surprises. It will also list the shipping price and total price (including shipping) so you know exactly what your final price will be.
Happy Shopping!
Please refer to my early posts on how to save extra money and get cash back while shopping online.
Friday, December 3, 2010
Store Credit Cards Worth Opening
I've never been one to cram my wallet with excess credit cards, however here are two store credit cards that I think are worth having....IF you pay them off each month and run no risk of racking up credit card debt. I'd never advocate a new temptation!
Kohls - www.kohls.com Kohls treats it's customers great. With a Kohls charge not only to do you get to save the day your open it, but Kohls sends it's customers percentage off coupons continuously. With holiday savings passes, pick your day 15% savings passes and the lusted after 30% off coupon, you can take that percentage off your entire transaction including sales and clearance. Kohls also has a Kohls cash program that runs off and on throughout the year when you can get $10 Kohls cash for future purchases with every $50 spent. The savings can really add up.
Macys - www.macys.com Macys is another store that really allows it's customers to cash in. Since opening my card with the initial discount, I've gotten a discount coupon or money off coupon with each bill they send me. Occasionally Macys will run an add for a "WOW" pass in the paper or allow you to print it off onsite, however using your Macys card has the same effect. Since paring with American Express, they offer even more discounts from money back when dining or shopping at one of their partner's establishments. To see an example of the cash beck and discounts they offer please follow this link.
http://offers.amexnetwork.com/selects/us/grid?categoryPath=/amexnetwork/category/Dining&issuerName=macys_us
I reiterate, opening any line of credit can be counter productive to living the thrifty lifestyle if you do not do it responsibly. Using any credit card that you do not pay off in full and on time will hurt your credit and cost you more in the long run.
Kohls - www.kohls.com Kohls treats it's customers great. With a Kohls charge not only to do you get to save the day your open it, but Kohls sends it's customers percentage off coupons continuously. With holiday savings passes, pick your day 15% savings passes and the lusted after 30% off coupon, you can take that percentage off your entire transaction including sales and clearance. Kohls also has a Kohls cash program that runs off and on throughout the year when you can get $10 Kohls cash for future purchases with every $50 spent. The savings can really add up.
Macys - www.macys.com Macys is another store that really allows it's customers to cash in. Since opening my card with the initial discount, I've gotten a discount coupon or money off coupon with each bill they send me. Occasionally Macys will run an add for a "WOW" pass in the paper or allow you to print it off onsite, however using your Macys card has the same effect. Since paring with American Express, they offer even more discounts from money back when dining or shopping at one of their partner's establishments. To see an example of the cash beck and discounts they offer please follow this link.
http://offers.amexnetwork.com/selects/us/grid?categoryPath=/amexnetwork/category/Dining&issuerName=macys_us
I reiterate, opening any line of credit can be counter productive to living the thrifty lifestyle if you do not do it responsibly. Using any credit card that you do not pay off in full and on time will hurt your credit and cost you more in the long run.
Free Shipping Day Dec. 16, 2011
Ever grimace at paying more in shipping than for the present itself?? On Dec. 17, 2010, over 1000 merchants have agreed to ship free by Christmas Eve.
In 2008 Luke Knowles created free shipping day as a means to amp up the market nearing the holidays. Most online shoppers wrap up their shopping early in the month for fear they won't receive their presents by Christmas. What a neat way for retailers to earn money right up until Christmas, and for us shoppers to save a few bucks along the way!
So, if you can wait that long...hold out and use those savings for some retail therapy for yourself.
Happy Shopping!!!
http://www.freeshippingday.com/
Make sure to use your cash back site for added savings http://www.ebates.com/rf.do?referrerid=NtXcEA0giYHMBJoCvVeqbg%3D%3D
In 2008 Luke Knowles created free shipping day as a means to amp up the market nearing the holidays. Most online shoppers wrap up their shopping early in the month for fear they won't receive their presents by Christmas. What a neat way for retailers to earn money right up until Christmas, and for us shoppers to save a few bucks along the way!
So, if you can wait that long...hold out and use those savings for some retail therapy for yourself.
Happy Shopping!!!
http://www.freeshippingday.com/
Make sure to use your cash back site for added savings http://www.ebates.com/rf.do?referrerid=NtXcEA0giYHMBJoCvVeqbg%3D%3D
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Order your Christmas Cards Now
Getting ready to send out those Christmas cards? Here is a great deal. Vista Print is an exceptional site that offers quality products at low cost. Once you sign up, they send promotional emails with free offers and stellar deals. An insider tip, I've never paid for rushed delivery, and have always gotten my order very quickly far ahead of the projected time. Unless you NEED something immediately, don't be afraid of their projected shipping time table.
I've used Vista Print for business cards, promotional post cards, holiday calendars, pens, stamps and even our save the dates for our wedding. I can't recommend their quality and customer service enough. Follow this link to sign up and receive up to 80% off. You can go to sites such as www.retailmenot.com for additional coupon codes and promotions.
http://www.vistaprint.com/referfriendholiday.aspx?tellapal.id=85eaebf0-9648-4190-b629-c6ce26870e9d&xnav=foot&GP=11/25/2010+11:23:32+PM&GPS=1380920543&GNF=0
I've used Vista Print for business cards, promotional post cards, holiday calendars, pens, stamps and even our save the dates for our wedding. I can't recommend their quality and customer service enough. Follow this link to sign up and receive up to 80% off. You can go to sites such as www.retailmenot.com for additional coupon codes and promotions.
http://www.vistaprint.com/referfriendholiday.aspx?tellapal.id=85eaebf0-9648-4190-b629-c6ce26870e9d&xnav=foot&GP=11/25/2010+11:23:32+PM&GPS=1380920543&GNF=0
Sunday, November 21, 2010
AMEX cardholders! Support a Small Business Get $25 on Small Business Saturday
What is Small Business Saturday? Glad you asked. For all American Express card holders, if you use your card at any small business that accepts American Express and spend $25 on Saturday Nov. 27th, American Express has agreed to give you a $25 credit on your statement.
What counts as a small business? Apparently any purchase made in person (not online) at a locally owned, non franchised store that has no relation to a corporate chain. What a great way to help out a small business and put a little cash back in your own pocket. American Express has taken to Twitter and Facebook to drum up support.
To sign up, go to http://www.facebook.com/SmallBusinessSaturday?v=app_165267296827487
What counts as a small business? Apparently any purchase made in person (not online) at a locally owned, non franchised store that has no relation to a corporate chain. What a great way to help out a small business and put a little cash back in your own pocket. American Express has taken to Twitter and Facebook to drum up support.
To sign up, go to http://www.facebook.com/SmallBusinessSaturday?v=app_165267296827487
Cash in on Coupons for Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving isn't only the kick off of the holiday shopping season...it's the best time to stock your pantry! So, dig your "junk mail" grocery circulars out of the recycling, sift through your clipped coupons, load up your frequent grocers cards with those digital coupons and hit the stores!
Thanksgiving is the perfect time to stock up on baking items, stuffings, canned vegetables, pastas and frozen goods like turkey, rolls and desserts. Some stores offer free birds when you spend a certain amount of money, other stores offer turkeys at pennies per lb. Even if you aren't cooking the big family meal this year, it may be wise to pick one up to stock your freezer.
Ralphs, in Southern California is currently offering a promotion through Nov. 26 to double coupons up to $1, thus racking your savings up to $2. Combined with already low prices, you may even skate out of the store with some freebies. My last shopping trip of $168, we scored for $56.91. Now that's a deal in my book.
Before you go crazy with coupons read this article. It offers tips how to use coupons correctly so you don't end up with a pantry of items you will never use.
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1464735/how_to_use_coupons_correctly.html?cat=46
If you don't subscribe to the Sunday paper, you can print out coupons online. A popular website is www.smartsource.com.
Most retailers offer frequent shopper programs that offer already reduced rates on their items. What you may not know is there are numerous online sites that now upload coupons directly to you card, so if you are in a hurry or would die handing over your coupons at the counter check them out.
www.softcoin.com
www.cellfire.com
Happy Shopping!
Thanksgiving is the perfect time to stock up on baking items, stuffings, canned vegetables, pastas and frozen goods like turkey, rolls and desserts. Some stores offer free birds when you spend a certain amount of money, other stores offer turkeys at pennies per lb. Even if you aren't cooking the big family meal this year, it may be wise to pick one up to stock your freezer.
Ralphs, in Southern California is currently offering a promotion through Nov. 26 to double coupons up to $1, thus racking your savings up to $2. Combined with already low prices, you may even skate out of the store with some freebies. My last shopping trip of $168, we scored for $56.91. Now that's a deal in my book.
Before you go crazy with coupons read this article. It offers tips how to use coupons correctly so you don't end up with a pantry of items you will never use.
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1464735/how_to_use_coupons_correctly.html?cat=46
If you don't subscribe to the Sunday paper, you can print out coupons online. A popular website is www.smartsource.com.
Most retailers offer frequent shopper programs that offer already reduced rates on their items. What you may not know is there are numerous online sites that now upload coupons directly to you card, so if you are in a hurry or would die handing over your coupons at the counter check them out.
www.softcoin.com
www.cellfire.com
Happy Shopping!
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Attention Holiday Shoppers
Gearing up for the holiday season?? Look no further! There are incredible savings to be had online. If you revel in the 2 am wake up calls, chilly mornings awaiting the opening rush of Black Friday, be my guest. Me? I prefer to do my shopping from the comfort of my own home. Pajamas on, feet kicked back, and coffee in hand.
Online shoppers and in store shoppers alike will benefit from this website. This link shows all the retail store's ads in advance. It allows shoppers to make a game plan and take advantage of the best sales. Check it out! You can even enroll to receive specific stores savings in advance.
For our online shoppers, may I suggest a site called ebates? Ebates.com is an all in one, one stop shop. It has current coupon codes for online retailers (extra savings) and offers CASH BACK. Over 1000 stores are part of the ebates program. Every three months ebates sends you a check via mail or paypal. They are excellent at tracking tickets and have prompt payment. Simply follow this link, enroll, and go to ebates.com each time you shop. Search for your preferred retailer, click through their site and watch your savings add up.
Last but not least, may I suggest to my online shoppers and out of town gift givers, that you wait until Dec. 16 for one big shopping trip. Because the shopping season seems to putter out toward Christmas, over 1000 stores have signed up to offer FREE shipping, no matter your order size on Dec. 16 with a Christmas Eve delivery guarantee.
Couple this offer with ebates cash back and coupon codes and you've a sure fine winner!
Happy Holiday Shopping!
Welcome!
Welcome to The Thrifty Path to Extravagance!
My name is Emily! I'm a "middle class", soon to be bride, determined actor, office manager for an inventory specialist. Ten years ago, I graduated college, packed my bags and moved from Michigan to Los Angeles, determined to make it as an actor. I have had wild success, mediocre success, and all out failure. In the interim, I decided that a "starving artist" was not my cup of tea.
I began working any and every job I could get, personal assistant, waitressing, catering, party planning, running a staffing agency, writing, preparing insurance claims for fire and flood, and when the good Lord blessed me...acting. After years of tears and struggle I decided I absolutely would not let my circumstances dictate my lifestyle.
Today, my fiance and myself are planning our wedding, renting a beautiful three bedroom, two and a half bath condo and striving to find success in our crazy career path. I decided to start this blog to demonstrate that no matter your socioeconomic status, you can live the lifestyle you choose...within reason.
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