Shopping 101 or I Never Met A Bargain I Didn’t Like
If there is such a thing as a shopping gene then I was blessed with an abundance of it. I was born to shop - or more precisely, to hunt relentlessly for sales.
Once inside a store, instinct takes over. Like a big game hunter stalking his prey, I cautiously approach the racks, searching for that one ultimate, cannot-live-without piece of clothing or jewlery. It could be lurking behind a pair of pants or in the dangling in the wrong section on a hanger with the wrong size! Most of the time I don’t even know what I am looking for but once I am on the trail of my prized quarry I can be relentless. If it's out there I will find it.
Retail outlets aren’t enough to quench my shopping thirst. For half the year I indulge my not-so-secret addiction to estate and garage sales. I enter rehab during the winter months when there’s barely a sale to be found and start shaking in the spring hopeful for indications of a garage sale fix. When I am driving my eyes are instantly attracted to the familiar red and white garage sale signs. In a trance, I find myself compelled to check out the usually false claims of “best” or “huge” sale. Typically I am disappointed and vow never to stop again…until the next “best” sale sign tempts me, encouraged by the memories of my last fabulous find.
I’ve even found some great deals in my West Bloomfield hood. By saving time and money shopping in local stomping grounds, I can splurge on something a bit more extravagant.
I know I am not the only shopaholic in town. Fellow shoppers: send me your favorite places and best deals, and I'll incorporate them into a future post. We can swap stories and maybe even an item or two.
Besides, whoever said that saving money doesn’t bring happiness doesn’t really know HOW to shop.
Timothy Rath
3:52 pm on Wednesday, October 24, 2012
I'm not quite as vigorous come spring season, but I admit that I don't often pass a garage sale without stopping to ask if any baseball cards are up for sale. Scored a collection of '59 Topps at a bargain once — unfortunately, not worth much due to condition — which has stayed with me a long time, lots of fun. (Kuenn on the Tigers!)
More timely is fall shopping and all the bargains that come with it. :) Are you looking forward to one sale in particular?
Greater West Bloomfield Chamber of Commerce
3:00 pm on Sunday, October 28, 2012
I am an equal opportunity shopper so I never know where the latest and greatest bargains will surprise me!
Marilyn Kash
8:17 pm on Thursday, October 25, 2012
I really like sales that have a lot of the baby equipment. Its a haven for grandmothers. I'll see you in the spring Marilyn Kash
Peggi
12:20 am on Friday, October 26, 2012
Seeing that you, Suzanne, are perpetually fashionable and state-of-the-art, always tastefully put together, and always sporting your own signature of unique style, I would say that your shopping addiction has served you well—by whatever means it you come by it.
Nancy Blau
11:28 am on Friday, October 26, 2012
I agree with Peggi! You exemplify class, style and beauty at all times. Wherever you are finding your treasures, you find them well! It is definately an art form to find those special hidden gems that you find. Keep up with the tips on how to create and be successful with that challenge, as I know I can benefit as well as many others. But, then again....I think I would need to have you by my side for more inspiration and direction. I am looking forward to your next blog!
Greater West Bloomfield Chamber of Commerce
8:55 pm on Monday, October 29, 2012
From what I've seen you could easily give some great shopping and decorating advice! You can turn an ordinary event into something spectacular with a wave of your magic and talented wand.
Cherie Zuccarini
5:13 pm on Friday, October 26, 2012
Your great shopping finds have inspired me to start checking out those garage and estate sales. I'm getting tired of paying full price at Macy's or Nordstroms so watch out you may spot me at the next big sale because I'm ready for some bargain shopping. Do I have to wait until Spring?
Greater West Bloomfield Chamber of Commerce
9:54 pm on Friday, October 26, 2012
The garage sales really thin out as the temperature dips. However, I noticed on estate sales. net there is an abundance of intriguing sales this weekend...and pictures to tempt even the most skeptical shopper. I hope we won't be fighting over some fabulous silk scarf or vintage coat. I know you have impeccable taste so I hope to get there first!
lauren meir
2:51 pm on Sunday, October 28, 2012
You know, i sort of hated shopping...but this post makes it seem really appealing, especially when the author's impeccable sense of unique style is taken ito consideration. She always looks fantastic with great accessories. Her style is like her writing: sharp, ecclectic and always on-pointe. Oh shopping guru....teach me everything you know about the hunt, so thar i may always look as fabulous!
Marianne Sacks
5:56 pm on Monday, October 29, 2012
Excellent writing and excellent shopping tips! I hope to hear more from you in the future! From one shopping girl to another, happy hunting!
Andrea Freile
7:36 pm on Monday, October 29, 2012
Haha, I love this! I am also attracted by those 'garage sale' signs. I think it is mostly because I also love to bargaining, and it is so easy to talk down the prices (that are usually already low to begin with!). In the cold weather months, I satisfy my bargain shopping needs by visiting Plato's Closet or I have to rely on great deals online; but it is definitely a lot more fun shopping in person!
lauri
7:46 am on Thursday, November 1, 2012
Great article looking forward to reading more from you!!