Trading Up Downtown

Do you live in a city? Have you heard of Groupon, LivingSocial, or BuyWithMe?

If not, these websites offer discounts of 50% off or more on anything from restaurant meals to spa services as long as a minimum number of people buy the deal. The offers change daily, so there’s something for everyone! Definitely consider signing up. I’ve saved tons of money on these types of deals!

Have you ever used one of these group buy websites?

Have you visited your local Goodwill Store lately? If you haven’t, you’re in for a surprise!

Most Goodwill Store sell tons and tons of dishes for practically nothing! A few months ago, I spent $2.50 on three different dishes, which was a total steal. Plus, there’s usually an interesting mix of styles and colors, so you can always find something unique and different to add to your dish collection.

Here are a few things that I keep in mind when shopping for dishes and other home goods:

• Have a plan: Before I even set foot into The Goodwill Store today, I had an idea of what I wanted to buy. Walking into a huge store with tons of stuff can be totally overwhelming, especially if you don’t know what you are looking for. I narrowed-down the “playing field” by looking for dishes and other housewares.
• Be open-minded: Even though I had a game plan, I kept my eyes open for unique finds, unexpected gifts, and really good deals while shopping at The Goodwill. You never know what you might find!
• Take your time: The Goodwill Store had so much stuff to sort through, but I took my time to take a good look at everything. Don’t be afraid to move things around– you might uncover some real treasures!
• Carry cash: Not all thrift stores accept credit cards, so I made sure that I had cash on me. When I’m armed with cash, I’m much more selective about my purchases. Plus, the whole point of shopping at a thrift store is to save money, so I didn’t want to spend too much!
• Second-guess yourself: Before I purchased my items, I took a minute to consider each one. I questioned each item’s purpose, how much I would use it, and whether it’s a good deal or not. I ended up putting back a small teal bowl because there really wasn’t anything “special” about it. Plus, I have a zillion bowls for oatmeal.
• Wash before use: Especially with dishes, I make sure to run them through the dishwasher before I use them for the first time. I have no idea where they came from and how many different hands touched them!

What are your shopping strategies for thrift stores?

When storing winter coats or outfits for special occasions, I cover each item with an old (but clean) pillowcase to protect it from dust and dirt. I just cut a hole in the closed end and slip it over the hanger. Viola!

A pillowcase also prevents mildew from forming because moisture isn’t trapped inside, which sometimes happens with plastic covers.

Trading Up Downtown Giveaway

Thanks to everyone who entered this week’s giveaway! Here’s your winner: 59!

59. Jill E., on June 23rd, 2010 at 3:48 pm Said:

i add use nutritional yeast on my mac and cheese to beef of the cheese taste while using less cheese. also i love adding peas, or broc (100) or spinach all work really well.

Congrats, Jill! Please email me at thaupert@nuval.com with your full name and mailing address to claim your prize!