Cost-Cutting Tips

Cost Cutting Tips:

I have always been a bargain hunter. When I think that I have found a great bargain, I must tell everyone, show them the what I bought and then tell what I paid for it. It feels like I won some sort of battle…I am the victor! Yes, I know this sounds kind of silly but I save tons of money doing this so it works for me. Here are some ideas that I have found helpful. I am sure many of my fellow-bargain hunters won’t be surprised by my list but for the newbie, these tips may be helpful:

1. Thrift Shopping- I just love a good thrift shop. There are many thrift shops in the Lowell area that sell household items, clothing and baby items. I once left a Thrift Shop with 2 large bags of fantastic items and paid only $18.00 for them!

Here are just some of the local thrift shops in our area:

            CTI’s Suitability – Page Street in Lowell

            St. Vincent DePaul – Merrimack Street in Lowell

            Angels Above – Lakeview Avenue in Lowell

            Salvation Army- Appleton Street in Lowell

            www.childrensorchard.com-  Children’s Orchard is a Thrift Shop that sells items for infants and young children. There is a store locator on the website.

2. Coupons- I know it can be time consuming to cut out coupons but seriously this can be a huge money saving exercise. I think with coupon clipping, the buyer has to take the time to be sure it makes sense. There are coupon websites that provide the shopper with a weekly listing. Try www.shopathome.com or www.coupons.com. Both are great sites where you will find some fantastic savings.  

3. Clothing Swaps- Clothing Swaps are a pretty new idea on the web. The shopper has to register to a generally free swap-site. Once you enter the swap site and find what you like, you swap it with your things. This might not be for everyone, but for those who like it, it can be a great way to get a boat-load of clothing for you and your family

You can try: www.clothingswap.com for starters.

4. Local Farmers Market- I can’t say enough great things about your local farmers market. This is a great way to purchase fresh produce from local farmers. It is less expensive than purchasing from the big grocer and a fantastic way to stay on your budget AND feed your family healthy foods. The Lowell Farmers Market accepts WIC and is open from July through October 22^nd on Friday afternoons from 3:00-7:00 PM in front of Lowell’s City Hall.

Check with your City/Town hall for Farmers Market information.

5. Library- Your local library is a great resource. It can provide a list of local events that are free or a minimal cost. Many family events are hosted at your local library and can be free as well. Don’t forget that many libraries are also a source for a free movie rental and can provide passes to museums and some art galleries. Don’t forget to check it out!

6. Family and Community Engagement Programs- Community Teamwork Inc. has a Family and Community Engagement Program that offers free family events and workshops. Please call our office to be put on the mailing list: 978-654-5080 ext. 11.

These are just some of my ideas. I welcome your feedback and additional cost saving suggestions for all to read!