You may think Black Friday is only for crazed shoppers, but you can seriously find some great stuff out there in the wee hours of the morning.
But you need to know how to survive the crowds, crazy moms and long lines.
What’s open at a ridiculous hour on Friday?
3 a.m.: Kohl’s, 919 W. Dillon Road, Louisville
4 a.m.: Target, 2800 Pearl St., Boulder; Macy’s, 11 W. Flatiron Circle, Broomfield
5 a.m.: FlatIron Crossing, Broomfield; Best Buy, 1740 30th St., Boulder
6 a.m.: Macy’s, 1900 29th St., Boulder
Here are some ideas that may help:
1. Be patient: It’s the first and foremost rule to surviving any sale shopping experience. Don’t freak out, and don’t be one of those girls that gets in a fight over a pair of sale shoes. Take deep breaths and count to 10 if some soccer mom cuts in front of you in line. Just remember the deals you’re getting and the money you’re saving.
2. Be early: We know it’s Thanksgiving break, and your internal alarm clock is on vacation, too, but getting up at those hours you’re usually still partying until will benefit you. Being in line by about 5 a.m. to get whatever deal you’re hunting for will save you from a possible fight with a seasoned Black Friday shopper.
3. Do your homework: Get that Friday newspaper before they’re sold out and take stock of all the deals that stores in the area have to offer. Decide where you’re going to go first, and for what. If you’ve been to the store before, you can even try to think of where the item will be. And if you’re up to it, get in shape to run when those doors open. (You only live once, why not go a bit crazy for a good deal?)
4. Shopping attire: If you’re going to go the hardcore route this year at the stores be sure to have the proper footwear. Uggs or real snow boots will suffice if it’s snowy out, but otherwise some good, sturdy running shoes will keep your feet happy while pounding the mall pavement. Also use a cross-body purse so while you’re shopping it won’t slip off your shoulder every five seconds. Or go the easy route and just bring your favorite credit card and I.D.
5. Don’t spend money you don’t have: We know all the deals are seriously tempting, but there’s no reason to put yourself into debt on your — or mom and dad’s — credit card. That 55-inch plasma TV or brand new digital camera can wait. Go for stuff you actually need, like an amazing patent leather with shearling lining jacket for $150. (We kid.)
All we’re saying is if you’re going to make the commitment to shop with the rest of the crazies this year, don’t max out your credit card — your parents and bank account will thank you.
