Thrifty Thinking: Shopping Tips from Renee Ross

Nearly forty percent of U.S. households say they're "just getting by" or are struggling financially, according to a new survey by the Federal Reserve. The report is described as a snapshot of how Americans perceive their financial and economic well-being. Today's shoppers need to be savvier than ever. But doing research, clipping coupons, and shopping around takes a lot of time. What if there was an easier way?
 
I recently had a chance to interview Renee Ross, blogger at Cutie Booty Cakes, about the easiest ways to save money - without spending a lot of time. 




Besides the ones in the interview, she also has this advice to share:

• Stop shopping with other people: social pressure is powerful & convinces people to buy items they don't really need
• Take advantage of new cell phone plans with extended families including grandmothers, uncles and grandchildren
• Always negotiate your medical bills: most providers will be willing to cut your balance by 25% or more if you offer to pay
• Place a clock in every bathroom so there's no excuse to be late
• Use a ceramic watercolor palette for sorting & separating jewelry and other small items
• Keep electronic devices in a special drawer designated as nightly charging station

Renée holds a Master’s Degree in International Affairs and has worked domestically and abroad in the field of HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention for over ten years. After the birth of her son, Renée decided that having a flexible schedule and working from home would be the best option for caring for her young son. Renée was named as one of the top moms in digital media in Nielson’s Online 2009 Power Moms list. She is a member of the Walmart Moms, a writer for Kid Expert, a weekly column on The Classy Closet and a member Hanes’Social Media Comfort Crew.