‘Tis the season – for holiday shopping, that is. The main shopping season in America runs from Black Friday right up until Christmas for most people. Black Friday kicks off the shopping frenzy with what is often the lowest pricing of the year on consumer goods at almost every store in the United States.
This is a great time to find outstanding deals on items for your home while also scoring some great prices on gifts for everyone on your list. You can save as much as 50 percent on expensive stand mixers, pressure cookers, air fryers and other goodies for the home chef. Home improvement stores will even offer deep discounts on Top retailers will also offer deep discounts on tools and major appliances (yes, refrigerators go on sale). Electronics are always popular Black Friday purchases (just witness the people camping out in front of Best Buy for days prior to the sale).
Taking advantage of Black Friday deals is one of the best ways to save money on your holiday shopping list this year and pick up a few things for your home. Use the following tips from First Federal Bank Mortgage to map out your perfect holiday shopping experience in 2018.
Earlier Sale Start Dates (Don’t Wait Until Black Friday)
Research shows consumers are getting a jump on their holiday shopping earlier each year. Many major stores, including Walmart and Best Buy, start promoting holiday deals at the end of October and beginning of November, rather than waiting until Black Friday. Black Friday weekend, however, still sees the highest spike in holiday shopping and the deepest discounts. Fifty-four percent internet users in North America completed their holiday shopping by Cyber Monday (the Monday following Thanksgiving) in 2017, according to the eMarketer report.
Search for pre-Black Friday deals and sales to start saving on popular gifts now rather than waiting. While everyone else wakes up at dawn the day after Thanksgiving, you can sleep in and spend time with your family knowing you already got great prices on your purchases. Some retailers, though, still reserve their absolute lowest prices for the big event Black Friday morning. So set that alarm, bundle up, and join the crowds.
Small Businesses Reign Supreme
The big box stores may get the most press attention for their unbelievable deals around the holidays, but small businesses are giving major enterprises a run for their money this year. A report from ComScore supports the fact that many companies are starting holiday-related promotions earlier than Black Friday – including small businesses. Small Business Saturday (the Saturday after Thanksgiving) has gained serious traction over the past few years. In 2018, small businesses are getting a jump on holiday sales opportunities by advertising low prices earlier than usual. Your local appliance store, for example, may be offering fantastic deals on pricey washer/dryer sets, high-end dishwashers, trendy vacuum cleaners and more. Don’t overlook small local retailers, including furniture stores. Now may be the perfect time to get a great bargain on that new living room or dining room set you’ve been wanting for your home.
Supporting a small business this holiday season can give you a holly jollyfeeling that major corporations simply can’t match. Not only are you helping a local businessowner thrive, but you’re benefiting from unique (sometimes even handcrafted) gifts your loved ones will adore. You’ll also benefit from personalized customer service, friendly faces, and low or no shipping costs. Consider saving some of your big spending for Small Business Saturdaythis year instead of going all-out on Black Friday. You’ll get awesome deals on local goods and the added benefit of supporting your community!
Smart Items Are the Smart Choice in 2018
Smart goods are the top trending gift items in 2018, and a central part of most consumers’ holiday shopping lists. Invest in popular smart devices that optimize convenience for loved ones, such as smart bike locks and trackers, Tiles to find lost items, and smart energy solutions. Tech gifts are sure to wow even the pickiest people on your shopping list this year – and retain value over time. Smart holiday shopping in 2018 means more than just getting the best deals; it means purchasing smart tech, as well.
