Target Archives - Frugaling

Ikea Store Nice! — *I like Ikea a lot, but this place makes me think, “You know what would be nice?” Photo: Håkan Dahlström/Flickr*

A dendritic response arcs across my brain, as a firing of emotional and processing centers make me think, “You know what would be nice?” It’s the beginning of a dangerous game for me; at times, that question begets rampant spending.

“You know what would be nice” is a phrase that envisions the bigger picture, better future, and more attractive self. It encapsulates my desire for nicer clothes, electronics, furniture, etc. I can see and feel how an iPhone 6 might complete my left pant pocket. The svelte thickness and aluminum texture captivate me in these moments.

“You know what would be nice” is the reason Ikea, Target, and other big-box retailers exist. They perfected the art of the ensemble. It wasn’t enough to get/have a couch; now, you needed the accoutrements. They suggest “what would be nice” and show you the pairing. Their catalogs and stores are expertly laid out to exemplify an orgiastic group of accessories.

A small rug could complement the dining room. That watch would make this outfit POP. This lamp shade would make my room cozier. This shirt would be great for a night out.

“You know what would be nice” is the dream hypothetical that only lives in marketers’ models. Realizing this is one of the most painful lessons in consumerism. No matter how many “nice” things I own, the question will continue to putz around my little mind — craving me to cave and spend.

I’m not sure when I started saying this phrase. It’s led to horrible spending habits at certain times in my life. And I’ve heard others, mouths agape, vomit this treacherous line, too. The reality and solution is far simpler.

All we need to do is change the desired answer — a détournement to the prescribed answer. “You know what would be nice?” To be content with who I am today, the things around me, and the life I lead. “You know what would be nice?” To quiet the racing mind that suggests I need anything consumeristic to complete me. “You know what would be nice?” To make purchases out of necessity and enjoyment, rather than compulsion and marketing pressure.

You’ve just walked into your local Target store for a new coffee maker. The old one has finally crapped out – the coffee’s no longer hot. You pick up a discounted Mr. Coffee and look at the features. This is the one you want. The $29 price tag seems like a decent deal, but how does that compare to Amazon.com?

Amazon.com’s Deals

Target has some wonderful discounts with their 5%-off-everything Red Card, and the beta program, Cartwheel. Recent price comparisons between Walmart and Target show that the latter is often cheaper when paired with these discounts.

Oftentimes, Amazon has better deals because they have less overhead. Like online banks, the absence of a brick and mortar store can lead to savings being passed to the consumer. Unfortunately for Target, their stores take massive amounts of energy and extra employees.

Target Price Match Guarantee

Amazon is a wonderful place to find specials and deals, but the shipping time can sometimes be a problem. Now, with Target’s powerful Price Match Guarantee you can get Amazon’s deals in stores.

Here’s Target’s official, corporate dialogue:

If you buy a qualifying item at a Target store then find the identical item for less in the following week’s Target weekly ad or within seven days at Target.com, Amazon.com, Walmart.com, BestBuy.com, ToysRUs.com, BabiesRUs.com or in a competitor’s local printed ad, we’ll match the price. Price match may be requested at Guest Services prior to your purchase with proof of current lower price or by bringing in your original Target store receipt and proof of the current lower price.

As with any deal, keep a paper trail or bring a smartphone to prove the prices you’re seeing. If you find a deal, you’ll have to take your receipt and proof to a Guest Services agent. Once there, they can credit back the difference.

Simple, easy, and well worth your time. Stay frugal!

Source: https://corporate.target.com/about/shopping-experience/our-low-price-promise#q4069

Have you tried Target Cartwheel?