Ready for Black Friday?

by Sherry Holetzky | More from this Blogger

If you are a bit of a novice when it comes to the world of bargains, deals, coupons, rebates, Frugal Living, or just finding ways to save money, you may not know what Black Friday is. Veterans are aware and are probably already making plans.

Black Friday, as used here, is the day after Thanksgiving, the unofficial-official kick off for the Christmas shopping season. It is usually the busiest shopping day of the year, even if it's not the day that shows the biggest profits for retailers. The days that show the biggest profits tend to be closer to Christmas, usually the last weekend before Christmas or Christmas Eve.

The reason for this inconsistency is good news for the consumer. Retailers offer incredible discounts in order to get people out to the stores. They often have "early bird" sales, some opening their doors as early as 5:00 or 6:00 a.m. The special deals are only available during set sale hours, so shoppers line up and wait for the doors to open. When the sales end (many around noon) or a store runs out of an item, that's it. It's first come first served all the way.

Shopping on Black Friday and hitting those mother-load sales can be truly chaotic, but it can also be a lot of fun as well as a great opportunity to save big bucks. It's just one week away, so watch for sale ads and sale papers from your favorite stores. You should start seeing them soon, or check your favorite retailer's website. You can also visit the official Black Friday site for information and news on several top retailers.

Start making your list now. Write down the stores that have items you are interested in. You may be able to make it to more than one early sale if you go in prepared, but let me warn you, it's not for sissies!

*Check back for tips on tackling Black Friday and other early bird sales.

Another great source for savings on holiday gifts: Review: Overstock.com

Learn more about Sherry Holetzky

Sherry Holetzky is a work at home mom and freelance writer. Married to her best friend, Sherry and her husband are raising their family in a quiet rural setting in the beautiful Ozark Mountains.

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