Ask Sara: Where Do You Shop?

"Where are your favorite places to shop? I never know if I'm getting the best deal on something."
-Courtney

Hi Courtney,

If you're happy with the deal you got, then it's a good deal! But, I have found my "favorites" when it comes to purchasing specific things.

Here are some of my go-to places to shop for various items...

Primary Groceries: Trader Joes
Trader Joes has basically everything I need for the week. I purchase most of my canned/jarred items, dairy, and frozen goods there. Not only are they significantly less expensive than our local grocery store, but the items are often organic.

Meat: Costco
Costco has good meat quality at a reasonable price. They also have organic beef and chicken for half the price of the grocery store.

Produce: Sprouts or Costco
When Costco has their organic fruit in season, I typically purchase most of my fresh fruit there. If not, I get fruit at Sprouts. While Sprouts can be more expensive, they typically have several produce items on special every week that we will pick up. As for vegetables, I like the frozen organic vegetables from Costco. They taste fresh, and don't cost too much.

Kid's Clothes (New): Gymboree, Children's Place
We have been blessed with many hand-me-downs, but if you prefer to purchase your kid's clothing new instead of gently used, I have had good luck at Gymboree buying on clearance with a 20% coupon or Children's Place online using coupon codes which they have frequently. I don't spend more than $3 per new item for my toddler, or $5 per new items for my 6 year old (who is in size 8, thus more expensive clothes). But, because I buy quality clothes, I can sell them for $1 to $2 each at a yard sale, and almost make my money back! 

Kitchen Items: Costco Business Center, Homegoods, Ikea
If you happen to have a Costco Business Center in your area, don't be fooled by the name, you can find some great deals for your home. Since it's built for businesses and restaurants, the Business Center doesn't carry the fun stuff (clothes, books, toys, etc), but they carry a ton of restaurant (ie kitchen) supplies at very low prices. They have pots and pans, utensils, servingware, and other items. One of my favorite items to get there is the digital meat thermometer, only $3 each. Similar thermometers are $10-12 anywhere else. I also like Homegoods for good cookware, and Ikea for miscellaneous items, such as spatulas and straws.

Women's Clothing: Target, Nordstrom Rack
I love the tank tops at Target. They go under anything, and I can often get them for $4 each when they have a sale and a clothing coupon. I've gotten many cute outfits at Target for a fraction of the cost anywhere else.
Nordstrom Rack is hit-or-miss. You have to be patient, but on occasion you can find some incredible deals. My daughter was recently the flower girl in a wedding, and I found an amazing white satin flower girl dress marked down from $100 to $24.99. I could not have purchased the fabric to make the dress for cheaper than that!

Toys: Homegoods, Costco
Homegoods has a really nice toy section, and they're often good quality, such as Melissa and Doug. When I'm purchasing for a birthday party or baby shower, Homegoods is my first stop. During Christmas season, Costco has wonderful deals on toys, which I often purchase to use as birthday gifts throughout the year.

Where Do You Like To Shop? Let me know in the Comments!

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