Cash Discount

Merchants prefer cash – no fees for them to pay to credit card companies!  Often times – and particularly for big purchases – many retailers will give a discount -  if you can pay cash.  This technique also has the added benefit of preventing you from charging items you can’t really afford!

Two-Fer

Particularly in independent boutiques where they have more flexibility, they might give you a discount if you buy multiples (assuming of course you actually need them)!

Pick up on Cues

Take a cue from the merchant!  They often show us upfront the ways they are interested in making deals.  For example, many salons will offer one beauty treatment for free if you buy several up front. It’s easy enough to say to the manager that the laser hair removal people down the street offered me 4 sessions for the price of 3, but I would much rather give you guys the business – any chance of a similar deal?  Many hotels have policies like this and will offer you three nights for the price of two depending on time of the week.

Cheap vs Frugal

Of course, you know that we here at Fab & Fru never condone being cheap.  In general, we think it is very clear cut – but just in case, here are a couple examples of when to just shut up and pay full price:

You are on a first, second, or third date.  If you have any hope of a romantic encounter/potential for a real relationship – do NOT pull out any restaurant coupons on an early date.  Seriously.

You are dealing with beloved household help.  Trying to cut down on expenses by seeing if your housekeeper or nanny can take a pay cut…just so you can keep your gym membership? We’ve had friends who have gone this route and it is just bad karma.  If you really can’t afford the help and want to try to save a household employee’s job, that is one thing – but it should NOT be your first go-to area of savings. You don’t want to be one of those people buying a $300 pair of shoes who is at the same time wondering if their gardener might take $20 a week instead of $25 to care for your backyard. Come on, now. You may think it sounds ridiculous, but believe us – we’ve heard this and more!

So, the next time you find that little voice in your head telling you to see if the nail salon might give you a deal on your weekly treatment if you buy a package, speak up!  It can’t hurt to ask – and it just might pay – literally!

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