Buttoned Up’s Best Bets for Black Friday

There are those who hate the idea of Black Friday shopping. The crowds, the packed parking lots, and the long lines at the register keep some at home, but the fact remains that Black Friday is the mother of all shopping days. It might require a little extra planning, or even some alarm setting (midnight shopping sprees, anyone?), but it’s worth it to snag the bargains and the best loot way in advance of that Christmas deadline. Besides, if you don’t hit the mall, how else can you say you worked off that extra piece of pie sprinting for the toy department? Take a little time now to plan your Black Friday attack on the stores and you’ll be rewarded. Oh, and yes, it’s ok to feel a little smug that you got some, most, or even all, of your shopping done in less time and for less money than your best friend.

Here are five more organizational tips to tame the Black Friday Beast:

1. Social Media.

It’s not just for embarrassing high school photos anymore. Everyone has jumped on board the social media bandwagon, especially big box companies. Make a short list of your favorite stores and then log on for the savings by checking Facebook and Twitter and “liking” them or following their tweets. J.Crew, JCPenney, Target, and Sears are just some of the stores who share exclusive, insider information with their online community. Sign up and you’ll find yourself part of the “in” crowd when it comes to news, discounts, and coupons.

2. Visit www.getbuttonedup.com/tools.

The team of organizers at Buttoned Up has designed some free downloadable tools for busy people looking to get through their holiday shopping efficiently and without over-spending. Black Friday is definitely not the day to browse, so go in with a well-organized plan and you’re less likely to blow your budget or end up with items that you don’t need or want.

3. @black_Friday_Ad.

Follow this “person” on Twitter to stay on top of Black Friday offers available at the big box retailers like Wal-Mart and Target. Who doesn’t want extra savings at these spots where you can find everything and anything?

4. Sign up for @woot.

Nobody said Black Friday shopping had to be in a store. This cool alternative to hitting the stores is a techno-geek’s (and those who love and gift them) best friend. Featuring a new and cool techy product each day, this blast lets you browse and buy in your pajamas. Just be sure to check it early in the day!

5. Wrap It Up.

Yes, you’ll be tired from all of that shopping but for a complete Black Friday triumph, sign your cards and wrap those gifts right away. Trust us. You might be tired tonight but you’ll feel terrific tomorrow knowing that you’ve shopped and wrapped til you dropped and it’s all done.