Frugal Family: Five Ways to Save this Week

According to WikiAnswers, the average person will spend $116 on Valentine’s Day gifts for the special people in their life. Do we really have to spend that much money to show someone how much we really care? I know it is a sentimental day but how about spreading that love throughout the year on random days or perhaps even a mid-year love celebration of sorts? Having said this, what better way to get prepared then to shop now, and what better way to do this AND save than to hit the Valentine’s Day clearance aisles. 

Our adventure begins at located at 1527 Cole St. Owner Helen Verbon Locatelli is currently cleaning up after the Valentine's Day frenzy but she is looking at setting up her sale and clearance section. Young’s will be offering vases, gift items and assorted filled baskets at an amazing 50 percent off. To find out more, please visit their website at www.youngflowersandgifts.com.

Our second stop on savings can be found at  on 1214 Griffin Ave. This cute little shop is offering items such as notepads, love beads, baskets, bath beads and assorted goodies at a remarkable 50 percent off. Because this boutique offers gifts made by local artisans and crafters, this could be a superior savings event. More information can be found on their website www.crookedfencegifts.com.

Third on our savings spree is at 1237 Griffin Ave. Because this shop already has discounted secondhand items, clearance is not really a word used here by shop owner Francis McMullin. However, she will be featuring "After Valentine’s Day" special bargains on items that are the color red. On that note, February is also Go Red Month for the American Heart Association so what better place to look for a sale item of red clothing than Shabby Chic? More information on this shop can be found at www.shabbychicboutiquestore.com.

Next on our list is . Owner Darlene Hamilton is a cheery and bright presence and the best thing for free in her shop is the conversation. But that’s not all that is offered. Darlene carries many unique gift items and handmade crafts. Select items will be on sale and every once in awhile, she will surprise shoppers with a bowl of handmade caramels (try the sea salt candies; they're marvelous) to pick a free and yummy treat. Wrapped in the caramel will be a little slip with a percentage off tag on certain items in the store. For more information, please visit www.grammasgardennursery.net.

Last, but certainly not least, is located at 232 Roosevelt Ave. Besides all the usual weekly savings to be had on those everyday conveniences, Rite Aid is offering an after Valentine’s Day aisle where all items will be 50 percent off. This sale includes a variety of stuffed animals in all shapes and sizes, candy, knick-knacks and cards. To check this out and other savings, visit www.riteaid.com.

So what are you waiting for? Time’s a-wastin’ when there’s money to be savin’! And remember, Valentine’s Day does not have to come once a year; start early and save big for the ultimate win-win. See you next week for five more ways to save.