Coupon Queen

...well at least in training:)
I had the opportunity to take a coupon class last week. I expected to leave with information overload, but I didn't. Instead I walked away confused by the fact it was so easy...why had I not thought of these ideas on my own.
I will give you the biggest tips that I learned:

1. Clip, clip, clip...and we all know the best place to start...the Sunday paper. And don't just buy one...keep the amount of papers/coupons even. Our teacher encouraged us to purchase a paper for everyone in our house and and extra if we have an odd number. Ex: household of 4=4 Sunday papers/ household of 3=4 Sunday papers.

2. Stack the savings: combine your manufacturer coupons with store coupons or sales to increase your savings.

3. Buy one, get one is a great sign of savings!!! Buy one get one free gives you the opportunity to pay (1) price, use (2+) coupons and get (2+) items!! Yes, it is true on a buy one, get one deal even though one of the items are free you can still use a coupon for each item. This also works on "group items" like 10 for $10 sales...you can actually use a coupon for each item (10 coupons total). This is why you buy more than just one Sunday paper.

Well, I am a visual learner. My coupon teacher gave me a walmart bag full of coupons so I have been clipping away for three days. Today I decided to dive into the couponing world. I didn't walk away with a $1,000.00 worth of groceries for .50c, but it was not a total flop either. Actually I was right in the middle, literally...on all of my purchases today I had an average savings of 50%. I decide to share with you my Kroger trip. It was my best savings of the day...
                          ...and it was where I walked away with the most stuff (so it was the best for a photo op).


 

(12)  32oz Gatorade

(5)  12pk Assorted Coke drinks

(2)  Suddenly Salad

(2)  Oscar Myer Hot Dogs

(2)  Huggies Wipes 72ct

(2)  Betty Crocker Fruit Snacks

(2)  Capri Sun Juice 10pk

(1)  Deer Park Spring Water 24pk

(1)  Johnsonville Italian Sausage

____________________________

Total (after tax)                 $78.54

But after coupons and store savings I only paid ...39.75!!!!!!

I am pretty excited to see how I can fit couponing into our already full life, but that is the best thing about it---you can spend as much or as little time with it as you would like. Of course as with most things the more time you put into it the greater the rewards.

If you are interested on learning more about couponing  visit The Krazy Coupon Lady.

As I learn more tricks of the trade I will be sure to share them on here too.