Retail Bootcamp: Save Money on Birthday Gifts

Retail Bootcamp is a series that will teach you step-by-step basics to saving money on Retail for yourself, home, gifts, holidays, etc...


In March we're going to be talking about ways to save money on Birthdays and Birthday Parties. Specifically today, we'll be talking about saving money on Birthday Gifts.

1) Use a Gift Reserve - As you know, I'm a big advocate for creating a Gift Reserve. If you've started a Gift Reserve, you can "shop" from your own stockpile (accumulating terrific gifts at rock bottom prices.) It does take some forethought and planning ahead, though. Use your Gift Reserve for your friends and family. Learn more about creating a Gift Reserve in our Retail 101 eBook.


2) Think outside of the box - I've been able to get some incredible deals on presents at Consignment and Garage sales. At this point, my little ones don't know the difference between what comes out of a box or what comes out of a store. If I can get an item in terrific condition for a fraction of the price, it will make our kids and our budget happy.


3) Coupons - When you find a coupon for toys, books, coupons that you think would make a great gift, print them out ASAP. You never know how long the coupon will be available. Hold on to the coupon and wait for a sale for even more savings. And, if possible, "stack" that manufacturer coupon with a store coupon and/or rebate. Now you're getting a drastic discount on your item. Example: I recently found Leap Frog coupons on the back of several Cheerios boxes. They don't expire until the end of the year, so I can patiently wait for a terrific sale and save big! (You can learn more about "Stacking" in our Retail 101 series.)


4) Be practical - Set a limit on how many gifts you'll give your children for their Birthday. If you're throwing them a Birthday Party, they'll already be getting gifts from others. Taking that into consideration, you can save money by buying only 1-2 nice gifts. 


5) Make a gift - This could be a family project on something that would be meaningful. There are plenty of coupons for craft stores that can make your project very economical. See our weekly Retail Round Up for printable store coupons. 

6) Freebies - Take advantage of smaller freebies when they become available. You can group them together to make a large gift basket/bucket for a terrific gift.


7) Daily Deal Websites - There are quite a few websites that will give you credit for sharing a Daily Deal. Once you bank your credits, you can use these for future purchases. Use those credits for gifts and add them to your Gift Reserve.

8) Watch for the Deals - Stay posted to your favorite Retail website (hint, hint). We'll let you know about all the great deals on everything from household, toys, apparel, gifts, etc... Sign up for our email newsletter or follow us on Facebook so you don't miss any time sensitive deals.

CHALLENGE

Start a Gift Reserve of items that would make great Birthday gifts. Stay on budget by using cash. Planning ahead will save you a lot of money. Also, watch Your Retail Helper for time sensitive deals as they become available. (Learn more strategies from our Retail 101 eBook.)

REMINDER

Check back every Thursday afternoon for our Retail Round Up, which is a huge list of printable mall and store coupons you'll need for your weekend shopping!

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