I know many of us are looking forward to Black Friday. Though I will definitely be sleeping in, many are planning on waking up at 4AM or earlier in order to begin their Christmas shopping and take advantage of sales. I think a lot of local businesses are counting on this day to help stimulate the economy.
Though there are many great sales going on tomorrow, I will be purchasing a lottery ticket for all my loved ones simply because that is all I am able to afford (hopefully they will offer me a cut of their lottery winnings).
Suggestions for Black Friday:
1- Avoid gift cards, particularly from retailers. Not only do the hidden fees end up punishing the spender, but many companies will not be able to honor them after the holidays or sooner.
2- Spend conservatively. Dont go broke this year or put yourself into even more debt because you want to make sure people still have a positive Christmas experience.
3- Buy practical gifts. Purchasing a set of decorative plates to a friend who collects plates is a great safety gift, but perhaps not when they are struggling to keep their home or trying to find a way to send their kid to college. It would be a lot more helpful if you could help with a bill or even groceries.
4- If youre flat broke, offer no-money gifts. In the tradition of making coupons for back rubs or dishwashing, offer favors as gifts to friends and family. Bonus points if it can be utilized as a marketable skill such as creating a website or photography.
http://www.structuredsettlementsnewyork.com/0047AA