Over the years I have come to love certain brands. These are my favorite brands that I have come to know and trust, usually because of the quality of their products. The thing is some of these brands a expensive. So here are a few of my tips on getting the best deal from the brands we love:

1.) Shop clearance. This is a no brainer for most frugal moms, but those who are just learning to penny pinch may not automatically think clearance when they have been use to an income that allowed them to purchase their favorite brands regardless of price.

2.) Take advantage of end-of-season sales. I have been known to shop for next winter now or for Christmas gifts right after Christmas for next year’s gifts.

3.) Join mailing lists. We receive $10 off a $10 purchase post cards from some companies. Or $5.00 or a percentage off. Each promo is different for individual stores.

4.) Sign up for store emails. Places like JoAnn’s will take email coupons and coupons from their mail flyer. E-newsletters also alert you to current sales or special offers.

5.) Watch for sales and use coupons too. If you are a couponer, using your coupons on sale items will give you an even greater discount at the grocery store.

6.) Buy used. In the day and age of families only having one or two children, thrift stores and garage sales are excellent places to buy brand name items. This is especially true for clothing, but small appliances and kitchen items may be found this way too.

Shopping Online

7.) Wait for free shipping offers. Companies like Land’s End offer free shipping several times a year, so wait to make your purchases until that offer is in your inbox.

8.) Join a rewards/buyers group. These groups are free and allow you to earn points (or in some cases cash) so you can use your points/cash to buy other things. They may even offer a referral code so when your friends sign up you can earn too. Examples: Zulily and Gilt for online clothing stores.

9.) Promo codes. As Brande mentioned in our Thrifty Thursday post, doing a google search for promo codes for the brands you love is another way to save money. Often e-newsletters will also include promo codes for online shopping – another benefit to signing up for e-lists.

10.) Buy used. In the day and age of families only having one or two children, thrift stores and garage sales are excellent places to buy brand name items. This is especially true for clothing, but small appliances and kitchen items may be found this way too.

We do not have to pay full price for brands we love. With a little bit of creativity and self discipline we can buy the brands we love and trust by using the tips above.

“I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms Kroger CartBuster blogging program, for a gift card worth $50. For more information on how you can participate, click here.”