In my family, once our bellies are full from too much turkey and stuffing, it's time to gather up the girls and hit the mall for Black Friday. If you're anything like me, you wait for this day to come around every year. Since you're up for a huge day of shopping, follow these steps to make sure your excursion is successful.
1. Have a game plan.
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This is the most important step of all. Go through the ads and make a list of every store you want to hit on Black Friday. That way, when the time comes you are prepared and not left wondering where to go next. If you're travailing for Black Friday, check out a map of the nearest mall.
2. Stick together.
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There's nothing quite scarier than getting separated from your group while out at the mall on a day as busy as this one. You're going to want to stick together.
3. Keep your phone ringer on high.
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In order to prevent getting separated from your group, keep your phone volume on! This way, if something were to happen, you're only a call away.
4. Eat something before you go out.
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If you leave first thing in the morning on Friday, make sure to fill up on some breakfast before venturing out.
5. Stay caffeinated.
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It's inevitable. At some point in the day, you're going to crash. Stay caffeinated all day to reduce the likelihood of this happening.
6. Pack snacks.
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ALWAYS pack snacks. You can eat them while you stand in line and save yourself money from being tempted by a stop at the food court.
7. Prepare your coupons ahead of time.
In order to be courteous of retail staff and those behind you in line, have your coupons ready in advance. If they're from a magazine ad, have them cut. If they're on your phone, have them handy for when you reach the register. No one likes the person who holds up the line longer than it already is.
8. Don't overspend.
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This is probably the hardest step of all, but create a budget and try not to break it.
9. Have a list of presents you need to buy.
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Gather up everyone's Christmas list and have in mind what you might be purchasing for them. This makes things easier on this already frantic day.
10. Don't forget to buy some things for yourself.
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Take advantage of the great sales and treat yourself to some new things. You won't regret it.
11. Last but not least, wish for next year to come sooner.
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Once Black Friday passes, all you can think about is how you can't wait for next year's shopping excursions.
With these tips in mind, you'll conquer Black Friday with no doubt. Shop on!
