A little over a week ago, my doorbell rang at 6 am. Outside was a car and driver (and my blogging buddy Julie) waiting to take us on a red carpet ride to Marshalls. I felt a little like Cinderella being whisked away to a ball….except for the rain…and the time of day! So what was this trip all about? I was to learn all about off-price shopping from style expert Alison Deyette.
Of course I’ve been to both Marshalls and T.J. Maxx (I don’t know many people who haven’t). But it’s not something I do regularly (particularly being 9 months pregnant and all!). My experiences at both stores have always been pleasant. In fact, one of my favorite places to shop is HomeGoods, and surprisingly, they’re part of the Marshalls and T.J. Maxx family.
If you were to ask my husband if I am a savvy shopper, he would describe the lengths I’ve gone to in order to save money on purchases. He would tell you that I never buy on impulse and spend way too much time comparison shopping and discount hunting. I absolutely avoid paying full price for anything unless I have to. That’s why shopping at Marshalls (and T.J. Maxx) makes sense.
Unlike similar types of stores, at Marshalls, you’ll find the SAME current, seasonal styles you’ll find at other department stores. Alison showed us several complete outfits that she obtained from a department store and Marshalls. The ONLY difference was the price (which was significant). The same concept applies for things like shoes, Starbucks coffee, and other products. You likely won’t find last season’s ANYTHING (unless it’s on the discount rack) since the company gets in 10,000 new items to EACH store EVERY week. Which begs the question…how can they do this?
It’s all about the company’s buyers (how I’d LOVE that job!). They search the globe for deals on the latest trends…then grab them up. These super savvy buyers negotiate pricing (in ways I don’t completely understand) so that you and I don’t have to pay full price. What I find interesting is that you likely won’t find many of the same items if you were to go from store to store. But we were given the tip that if you’re looking for a size or style that isn’t on the floor, ask. We visited their storage room where there were literally box upon box of items ready and waiting to be opened. So ask! They just may have that size or color or style you were looking for.
So what about the quality of the merchandise? Everything I saw looked BRAND new with all of the original tags. The only thing I did notice is that some of the tags didn’t have the original price on them. The company usually underestimates the original price so as not to falsely advertise the amount saved. But rest assured, you are at LEAST saving that much but perhaps more!
So what Shopportunities did I find? It’s a rare thing these days for me to buy anything for myself (many have commented on how shocking that is). I always think about my kids and my husband. A few weeks ago I walked away with 2 pairs of shoes for my husband and a pair each for my kids (nothing for me) and I felt so good about it. All of the bloggers in attendance were given gift cards to shop with. I headed straight for the kids’ clothing section. I found an adorable outfit for my son and a ton of clothes for our baby girl. I saved at LEAST $60 on name brand clothing like Carters and Kenneth Cole. I was SO excited. I STILL have half of my gift cards left to buy my son some toddler clothing (or maybe I’ll splurge on something for myself…doubtful).
By the way, when you’re online, look for the Marshalls‘ stores with a little shoe…those are the ShoeMegaShop stores! Looking for runway fashion? Check out the T.J. Maxx stores with an “R.”
All in all, I found myself wondering why I don’t go to Marshalls or T.J. Maxx more often. Why pay full price for anything? Right? Here is a video of Alison sharing her shopping pearls and some pictures from the event.
Disclosure: I did not receive compensation for this review. I received a gift card and travel, courtesy of the company in order to facilitate my review of this experience.
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Looks like a great time girlie! I love your post 🙂
Awesome! Sounds like fun! I know what you mean, I usually think of the kids first when I am buying.