Sunday, May 31, 2009

Sunday Sales Tips & Free Samples

It's Sunday morning, and what that means is...New Sales! As most everyone knows, American stores run their sales from Sunday through Saturday, and some stores have recently begun running special 2 day sales for Sunday-Monday. Knowing this can save you a lot of money.

So as a Sunday ritual, I sit down at the computer to look at all of my favorite stores' flyer, (why waste the money on a paper when you can look on-line) including the drug stores in my area. I jot down who is having what sales on a sticky note to later stick to my coupon envelope (otherwise, I'd forget it at home) . By using coupons only where something is on sale, I am able to get huge savings and often even walk away with things for free.

Many stores ( Target, CVS, Walgreens)are now offering printable in-store coupons. Make sure to check these before you go shopping, and pay special attention to the top of the coupon. It may very well be a manufacturer's coupon. If this is the case, you are not limited to use it at the store you printed it from, and instead can use it at the store having the sale. And don't forget: you can use a store coupon and a manufacturer's coupon together, even on a sale item!

When I began my ritual this morning, I came across some great samples from the CVS site. Check them out and Happy saving!

Free Aveeno Nourish shampoo

Free Goodnites Underpants

Tuesday, May 26, 2009

How to get MAC Lipstick for Free

I am always looking for a great deal or a free find, so imagine my delight in finding out that I can get a free lipstick from MAC. After all, what woman doesn't love MAC?! and for free?!

So, here's the deal, MAC has made a commitment to helping the environment through recycling. The Back to MAC program encourages you to return 6 MAC packaging containers, and in return, they'll give you a free lipstick of your choice. It's that simple, You recycle, and they give you lipstick.

Also, until June 6, MAC is offering free shipping on all online orders.

Sunday, May 24, 2009

How to be a Product Tester

Have you ever wondered who tests new products for companies? and how do you get tobe one of those people? Well' it's people just like you and me. But you have to know where to look. They won't come looking for you (ok maybe on the off chance that you have one of those Pretty Woman moments where you're in the right place, at the right time, and some rich guy just happens to..)

Many companies offer an opportunity for you to become a part of their testing panel. You get to try the product for free, and some even pay you for your time. Of course, you won't get rich doing it, but at least you'll get some free stuff, and have a chance to express your opinion.

So where do you look? Try the forums on Freebie sites such as Dealtaker, Freestufftimes, and Volition. There are a lot more out there but these are good to get you started. Also, check your favorite magazines. All You, and Allure have reader panels that often send out surveys and free products. Don't rule out checking your favorite companies websites, thay may have a link to sign up right on their page.

Just remember; your opinion is valuable, you should never have to pay to be part of a database, or to get a list of companies. all the information is out there, and it's free.

Here's a couple to get you started:

Become a Nailene Product tester.

Become a Thymes tester

good luck!

Thursday, May 21, 2009

Memorial Day Weekend Brings Big Savings

We all love free, so how about some free shipping for the Memorial day weekend? Here's a few places offering free shipping for the weekend.

Barnes & Nobles is offering free shipping with any $10 purchase. May 21- May25 If you're a book lover, $10 is nothing and this deals for you. enter code C8F8V7L

Want to add some new fashion to your wardrobe? Check out Liz Claiborne Get $25 off and free shipping on mark-down and full-price Liz Claiborne apparel when you spend $125 or more from now until June 10. Enter code InCrowd

Metropark is also offering free shipping this weekend through May 25, plus if you buy any regular priced True Religion Jeans, you get a free T-shirt. What a deal.

Get free shipping at JCPenney when you spend $99 dollars this weekend, including clearance and outlet. enter SUMMER99

If you want to add some more savings to your online purchase, check out Big Crumbs. It works like a rebate, but without all the forms, and it's free to join. as a member you'll get additional savings at many of your favorite retailers, and you'll get cash back on your purchases. Check it out!

Wednesday, May 20, 2009

Oscar Mayer, for Free? Really? Yes!

Everyone loves the word free! It just rolls off the tongue. Freeeeeee! What's even better than the sound of the word free? Actually getting something for free, with no strings attached.

Today, you can do just that. Oscar Mayer is giving away free hotdogs. That's right totally free! Just follow this link http://kraft.promotions.com/ombeeffranks/front.do
Enter your e-mail, name and address, and within 4-6 weeks, you'll receive your coupon for free hotdogs. It's that simple! But hurry! It's for one day only, while supplies last.

Monday, May 18, 2009

Build it, and they will come?

So you've decided what you're selling. You've registered your domain, and your page is up and ready to go. Build it and they will come, right? Wrong!

Starting an online business may seem like a simple task, but starting the business, and creating the web page is only the beginning. In order to earn money to pay for your efforts, you must drive people to your site. This doesn't mean you have to take out a second mortgage to pay for the marketing. There are many ways you can advertise absolutely free. Try some of these.

First, if you're not using social networking, you're missing out. Sites like Facebook, Twitter, and MySpace were designed to keep you connected with current friends, and help you make new ones. Well, as a new business, that's exactly what you need: friends! Getting your name out there is simple. Just post, post post. Also, try some of the lesser known sites such as: LinkedIn, Stumbleupon, Bebo or just search social networking, and see what you find.

Another great way to get some free advertising is to search for local community websites that offer free listings in there directory. For example: If you are a retailer in Central Florida you can be listed on localshops1 so shoppers may find you. Check in your area, you never know what you may find.

Don't rule out message board sites as a means of communicating what you have to offer. Check out Craigslist, and local newspaper sites to see what people are talking about. Just make sure your listing is appropriate to the conversation, and that you are folowing posting guidelines.

The important thing to remember is that it is up to you to get your name out there. You will need to invest your time, but when you're getting started, time is usually a lot easier to come by than money.