ONE PARADE
A LIFESTYLE BLOG
23
Nov
2011

Black Friday Survival Guide

categories: Minimalism

Black Friday

It’s that time of year to give thanks for everything you’re lucky enough to have.

Oh wait, so why is everyone telling you to go shopping?

While I love a great deal, it’s always consumerism overload this week. Don’t you think it’s ironic that we spend the most money on new things the day after we’re thankful for what we already have?

Black Friday Tips

If you’re going to tackle Black Friday, here’s what I recommend:

  • Don’t waste Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving is time to spend with your family and loved ones over good food and great conversation, not shopping or planning to shop.
  • Plan ahead. That being said, do plan ahead. Make a list of things you want to buy, where they are, and the price. You will know what you’re doing and avoid wandering around in a sea of people pushing their way around you.
  • Be realistic. Some things will be sold out when you get there. Expect it.
  • Remember Cyber Monday. Web stores are having great deals on the Monday after Thanksgiving, which saves you from road rage and getting trapped in between shopping carts for half an hour. Even on Black Friday, it’s good to remember most deals can be bought online in addition to in store.
  • Make a list. It’s the perfect time to buy Christmas gifts or things you actually need to replace around the house. Make a list and stick to it. Don’t fall victim to buying something just because it’s 75% off if you don’t need it. That’s wasteful.

A Better Option

Have you considered not running after that carrot corporations are dangling in front of you this Friday? Try not buying anything. It’s actually easy to do if you stay home and enjoy an activity you love.

However, this is still hard for some. Here’s a second alternative. Many small businesses and individuals have sales on Black Friday too. Give them a chance.

  • Artists: Many online artists sell their work at a discount or offer discounted commissions. I have some friends who do this. If you’re one of them, feel free to comment below with your information!
  • Handcrafters: Places like the Etsy.com marketplace will have people offering their items on discount, sometimes even with free shipping. Now is the time to discover some great handmade items!
  • Business Owners: Some small businesses are having sales. Check out what they’re offering before going to a huge mall. You may find a smaller crowd and even better deals.
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  • http://julies-thisandthat.blogspot.com/ Julie

    "Don’t you think it’s ironic that we spend the most money on new things the day after we’re thankful for what we already have?"

    I agree with this statement 110%! Wonderfully put!

    I think I am going to avoid all stores on Black Friday….I like the idea of finding sales but I don't like the rude people that come along with it. =P People get nasty when they are spending money!

    Good luck to everyone and Happy Thanksgiving!! =)
    http://julies-thisandthat.blogspot.com/

    • http://one-parade.com Marjorie

      Thanks, Julie! I agree that people turn into animals on Black Friday… Just for a silly deal! Hope you had an awesome Thannksgiving. :)
      My recent post Black Friday: Did You Survive?

  • http://ariannabelle.com/blog Arianna Belle

    I agree -consider supporting a small business :) The day after Black Friday is Small Business Saturday!
    My recent post Entryway Solution: Basket for Shoes & Slippers

    • http://one-parade.com Marjorie

      Small Business Saturday, I love that! I've really been pulling for small business. I've started one myself in the past, so I know how much it's appreciated. Thanks so much for the comment!
      My recent post Black Friday: Did You Survive?

  • http://teacupsanddresses.blogspot.com Rose

    Hi!

    Just found your blog, been reading some posts and already love it!

    Well..we don't really have a Black Friday where I live, but those were some great shopping tips!!! Even just for the sales, I think they are a great thing to follow!

    But I do agree with you, why going shopping when you just spent a day Thanking what you already have?

    Anyways, loved the blog!

    xo Rose

    teacupsanddresses.blogspot.com
    My recent post Happiness!

  • http://essencious.org Krystal

    We never use to have Cyber Monday and Black Friday here in the UK as we don't celebrate Thanksgiving. We normally have Christmas Sale and January Sale.

    Amazon UK did a Black Friday and Cyber Monday sale last year, now everywhere is doing it here in the UK.

    You just reminded me about a sale on my own store. I think I'll have a sale next Monday on my items :D

    • http://one-parade.com Marjorie

      I'm surprised the sales have made their way to the UK! I guess the Internet really is making the world a smaller place. I need to spread the word about your store to my friends, your items are lovely and perfect for the holidays. :)
      My recent post Black Friday: Did You Survive?