That's What Friends Are For

As far as scary mistakes go, this could’ve have made the cut until I discovered the good help of girlfriends.

So I was minding my business in these economic times when a ‘50% off all regular priced items’ email appeared in my in-box. It was to a very well known trendy & cheap(er) chain that has not been in my top 3 since I stopped paying tuition. Aside from this, I also thought and realized that I really didn’t need anything since I’ve been getting by with the options in my closet.

This then should have made it easy to give a decisive N-O when my friend asked me to go…

Girlfriend: Got any money for shopping? We have those coupons from Kim for 50% off and I think….

Me: Yes! Yes! Yes! Let’s, but let’s come up with rules or no-no’s for each other to avoid us spending money.

Now, my answer can be broken into two. The yes, yes, yes part which had nothing to do with logic and the rules/no-nos part which was my hasty attempt at thinking clearly again.

Despite women having been making these kinds of suggestions since the dawn of time we've rarely practiced it. So I thought what if I really followed this? Is it possible to save through a friend? No harm in trying right? So I did.

I didn’t tell my friend what my limit was but when I knew I had hit it I told her no more. As in she’s to make sure I don’t buy anything again. And she did. My girl saved me from the remorse that would have ruined a fabulous day of laughs and deals.

As such, I suggest to you The Budget Buddy.

A fun and productive way of staying within your limits. No calculators. No complex future projections. Just girls helping out girls.

Budget Buddy allows you to enjoy all the regular joys of shopping with your girl except she let’s you know when your time and money is up. She’s the sane and focused girlfriend you take with you when you’re literally on a limit. Here’s how it works:

• Choose the friend that will really do this. You know, the friend who will help you and who won't let "50% off" get the better of you.
• Make a list of what you need and don’t need with your designated Budget Buddy so she’s clear on what you’re looking for.
• Clearly state the budget you’re working with.
• If you are going to a sale or a mall, come up with a game plan of which stores to hit. It’ll save you from wasting time and getting any unnecessary ideas.

It may sound rigid or less exciting but if done properly this will allow you a functional yet fun shopping trip that won’t break your pocket with your girl.

Happy Budget Buddy Shopping!!!!!