'Black Friday' Shopping...to shop or not to shop?

As a champion shopper, the question I get THE MOST around this time of year is, "Are Black Friday deals really worth it?" and my answer is always...No. You read right. No, the sales on Black Friday are not worth it.

Now, don't get me wrong. I enjoy holiday shopping. The hustle and bustle of holiday shoppers, the Christmas carols playing in the background, Santa and his elves working up a sweat, taking orders from children who still have the sincere gift of belief. It really is "the most wonderful time of the year". However, stores making us think that THIS is THE day when they will sell THIS item for the BEST price is a crock of reindeer poop, so for that reason, I don't do a lot of shopping on Black Friday.

I'm not gonna lie. There are a few items on my holiday shopping list that I've been looking for in the Black Friday ads. I'm on the hunt for some Bose or Sony speakers so that I can thoroughly enjoy my Best Man Holiday CD (love that movie by the way). Goodwill Dallas's Black Friday Sale is a must, with 50% off of the entire store. If I get word that Sephora is having a 50% off the entire store sale, I'll be prompt and ready at 4am. Other than that, I'm straight.

So my advice is this, if you can wait until the New Years Day sales, do so. This is when stores really start to lower their prices because most of us have gift cards in hand and they know that all gifts have been given...they're not gonna see anymore Christmas dollars come in. Same goes for electronics. Stores create huge purchase orders for the holidays, so by the middle of January, they are looking to unload all that extra stock. They may almost PAY YOU to buy that 50 inch Samsung TV. For clothing and accessories, I say wait a bit longer. Stores start to unload their Fall/Winter merchandise in March/April and you can find deals of nearly 70-80% off during that time.

As with everything, if you don't have the money to shop...don't. Window shopping ain't never hurt nobody, but if you're not able to resist (as many of us are not), then just enjoy a cup of hot cocoa in front of your tree and be free. Holiday debt and the credit card blues faced by many of us in January just isn't worth it.

Well loves, I hope I've answered your Black Friday questions. I've created a FREE holiday budget guide to help you save even more money during this holiday season, you can sign up for it here:

Remember, if you're gonna go out there this Friday, we're looking for a savings of at least 50% off! Be safe, enjoy your turkey and remember, we NEVER pay retail!