Tips of What I've Learned So Far

I've been couponing since this last June, and while I'm no where close to getting the big bargains that they get on the  TV show, I can usually end up saving a good chunk of money on my grocery bill.  I will soon start documenting that, but for now, no $$$=no buying.  However, I thought there may be someone out there who is wanting to start couponing and would love a few tips.  These will be coming out over the next few days so be patient with me, I don't want to overwhelm you.

• The first place to start is with, of course, coupons! The best place to get them are from the Sunday paper.  They are available all over town from Denver Post dispensaries, to stores like 7-11 & Sunmart.  You can also subscribe to the Denver Post as well and just get the Sunday paper.  The Post will cost you $2/paper. I recommend that you  purchase one paper per family member.  There are also printable coupons available online.  What I've noticed with these is that the really good coupons available in the Sunday paper you won't find anywhere else and that includes online.  You can also go directly to the company of a product that you really like.  Certain companies offer their own coupons. 
• The next thing that you are going to need is a way to organize your coupons.  Find a method that works best for you.  I personally have a zippered three ring binder.  If you go the binder route you will want to get some baseball card organizers.  The binder and a set of baseball card organizers will set you back about $15 but it is a good investment. Once all your coupons are clipped you will want to then organize even further so you can find your coupons easily.  My binder is organized by isles in Walmart and I have two basic sections, one for food and one for everything else not food.  Those two are then broken down even further into categories such as frozen food, dairy, meat, paper products, makeup, razors, laundry detergent....you get the picture.
• Lastly, pick up fliers from all the stores in town so you can see what's on sale and who has the best price.  My biggest advice here is learn to be FLEXIBLE with the brands you buy! I realize there are times when you can't be flexible for allergies or other reasons, but there are good deals to be had if you ditch the brand wagon! 

So there you have it, the start of couponing in a nut shell! Hopefully, you find this helpful!