My name is April. I live in Virginia with my husband Jim. I have been couponing for six months & new to blogging. I started couponing for so many reasons, but it has now become my hobby! Every week I look forward to Sunday when I pick up my papers, and see what awesome coupons I get. And also what great deals are waiting for me that week. Couponing has helped out tremendously with the gas prices and cost of living raising the way it has been.
When I first started out I had a small little accordian folder that was able to fit in my bag. After about a month I realized I needed to upgrade!!! After a few other ways of storing my coupons I now have a huge binder that weighs about 15lbs. It is set up with tons of different sections for all my coupons. My husband even bought me a comfortable sharp scissor only for my coupons! Love him <3
It took me a few months to get the hang of matching my coupons with sales, when and at what price to buy products, how to use different kinds of coupons and all the different store loyalty programs and rewards. It is amazing how far I have come in six months and how much I still have to learn.
A few things I have learned so far is the show "Extreme Couponing" is not real life. What those people do is impossible with all the limitations stores put on coupons and the amount of coupons. But if you are lucky to actually have a store allow you to buy $2000 worth of products for $20 using coupons, have fun preparing for it!! You would have to purchase coupons online, scour the stores for the best deals and spend lots of time calculating your shopping trip. To me it isn't worth it. But they are putting on a show, and I will admit it is fun to watch. But I don't think I need 90 bags of croutons anytime soon!
I know you are looking to save over 75% on groceries as soon as you start using your coupons, but understand it does take time to get used to it all. People think that this is simple, I myself thought it was when I first started. So they get their coupons and head right for the store without any planning. Yes you will save a few dollars here and there, but wouldn't it be better to see 50%, 60% even 80% in savings? Then start reading and understanding the concept of couponing so you can maxmize your saving potenial. There is a lot to learn but in the end it is worth it.
I truly hope my blog will help you learn and understand couponing!! I am here to help you, and learn more myself. If you have any questions, email me...don't hesitate!!!
afortuna4128@yahoo.com
