Meet Frugal Shopaholic Jenee Marie

Name: 
Jenee Marie

Where are you from?

St Louis, Missouri 

Explain your blog or Instagram name?

J.MarieStyledit is the name for both! I wanted something familiar and identifiable but also something that describes exactly what your going to see on either my blog or Instagram. I think that combination does both! 

Describe your personal style?

My style is a mix of classic, cool, and comfy. I like to stick with timeless pieces and mix in trends here and there. I dress for my mood so it changes by day but I always choose comfort over everything, not in the typical sense ( wearing sweats everyday) but if an outfit is too fussy I can't wear it. I have to be comfortable in order to exude confidence. 

Where are your favorite places to shop?

Zara, Forever 21, Target, Fashionphile.com, H&M

What does being a “Frugal Shopaholic” mean to you?

It means knowing when to spend and when to save. There are times when a high end item really makes the difference with quality and functionality but sometimes you can get the exact look for a lot less without sacrificing either. I live for those moments and seeking out those deals! 

What is a frugal shopaholic tip or trick that can share with our readers?

I have two! Always buy luxury items pre-loved unless it's something you can't find and can't live without. You can save 50%-60% of normal retail price. The other is when I am shopping anywhere and I find an item I want I try and picture it styled 3 different ways, if I can't picture it I don't buy it( unless it's a special occasion). This keeps me from having unwearable items that sit in my closet. 

How can we keep in touch with you?

https://www.instagram.com/j.mariestyledit/

https://www.jmariestyledit.com/

Meet Frugal Shopaholic Jei Monroe

Name:

My name is Jei Monroe

Where are you from? 

I live in New York, but I am originally from Los Angeles.- I am a Fashion Curator and my Instagram name is simply my first and last name.

Explain your blog or Instagram name? 

I would describe my personal style as modern chic.

Describe your personal style? 

My favorite places to shop are thrift stores. I am the #QueenOfThrift and teach a course on all the secrets to become a thrift-savvy fashionista.

Where are your favorite places to shop? 

My favorite places to shop are thrift stores. I am the #QueenOfThrift and teach a course on all the secrets to become a thrift-savvy fashionista.

What does being a “Frugal Shopaholic” mean to you? 

Being a "Frugal Shopaholic" to me means you can still be fab without breaking the bank.

What is a frugal shopaholic tip or trick that can share with our readers? 

One frugal shopaholic tip I can share is to always compare prices. A better deal is almost always around.

How can we keep in touch with you? 

You can keep in touch with me and sign up for my Thrift Course at JeiMonroe.com and follow me on Instagram @JeiMonroe.

She's In The Mood for Greeting Cards

If you're anything like me you love your share of random trinkets and stationary. But I think one small obsession that I have are greeting cards. Since I was young I've always saved any birthday cards or graduation cards that I have received. It's a past-time of mine. With that being said, it's always a goal of mine to give friends and family cool greeting cards so that they want to keep their cards as well.

I attended an event earlier this summer called VTGCLT (Vintage Charlotte Summer Market) where tons of local vendors can sell their merch, food etc. While browsing through I came across a black-owned greeting card company based in Charlotte called She's In The Mood. Ran by a young mother of 3 girls, Cheryse. If you ask me she's pretty dope and so is her company. I was able to snag 3 greeting cards that started out in my mind as cards I would send to my GGs but I ended up framing them to put on my desk at home. 

The biggest plus about She's In The Mood greeting cards is not only that they are creative and cute card they are also frugal! Only $6 per card. Issa Deal! I bought three cards that really spoke to me and my personality, see all three below. This is just a sneak peek of all the dope cards that are available.

Daria $6

Homage to Cam'Ron $6

Hips & Kisses $6

Make your way to She's In The Mood and grab some greeting cards of your own! Tell her Derria (@dlolo) sent you! Sign up for ebates and get cash back and coupons when you shop! 

Budget Friendly Ways to Move Across the Country

If you didn't already know... I'm moving to California and this has been one of the most overwhelming moves of my life. Leaving family and friends here on the East Coast and trying to pack up my whole life without breaking the bank has been a full-time job so far. But I am so thankful for God and my supportive friends and family. If you have never moved farther than the next city over, I promise you a move thousands of miles of way will put you in your place and have you making life decisions.

If you plan on making a big move soon or are just moving, in general, there are a few budget friendly tips that I wanted to share so that you can move and not break the bank! 

Tip 1: Don't Pay For Boxes

When paying for boxes the price can definitely add up. I suggest you check local grocery stores or just stores in general that get stock in and ask can you have their empty boxes. The worst they could say is no but usually if you ask a cashier or another associate they are willing to give away boxes. 

Tip 2: It's Time To Purge 

I know we all hate to hear it but now is the time to make a pile of the items you haven't worn in years and don't plan on wearing it. No need to carry that extra weight to your new home. In turn, once you are done with your pile pack it up and take it to Buffalo Exchange, Platos or Uptown Cheapskate and sell to make some money for your move or for new stuff if you choose lol. 

Tip 3: Start Early

Packing is never a fun thing to do but when it came to my move I knew already that I would be transporting my car. I'm not into road trips so a 3-4 day car ride to California wasn't happening. I planned ahead and requested quotes from several different transport companies to get an idea of what it would cost to ship my car so I knew how much money to set aside. This helps out in the long run because I was also able to read reviews and choose the right company. The sooner the better when placing an order to have your car shipped is the rule of thumb, the price essentially goes up as your move date gets closer. 

Tip 4: Ask! 

If you are moving because of a new job make sure you ask if they have relocation services or if they are willing to pay for your relocation. If they say no, at least you asked. Also, ask friends and family if they know someone who specializes in relocation services. They can help you find apartments or homes in the area you're moving to and can do things on your behalf. Checking out spots and making sure they are legit. Can save you time and energy. Trust me you will need it. 

These are the top 4 tips that I'm sure will help assist you in being budget friendly during your move. I'm learning more and more each day so if you happen to have any questions drop them in the comments here on the post or on our Instagram page! 

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Buy Books Like a Frugal Shopaholic

I'm no stranger to Netflix and Chill but one of my favorite pastimes is Barnes and Noble and Chill for sure. I usually go to the magazine section and get all the newest magazines on men's and women's fashion and then any entrepreneur magazines. In addition to that, I usually browse the entrepreneur and financial books to see if there are any new books that I want to buy and add to my home library. 

I know that reading is time-consuming but if you are an entrepreneur or business owner it is pertinent to read books that will help you learn new things and also help you better your craft. One thing that I know has deterred me from buying or reading new books was the price. Because in all honesty books can get expensive especially if you are buying more than one. But I have gotten Frugal Book buying down to a science. So I take my Barnes and Noble and Chill time to find the books I want to take pictures of them and then I google where it can be purchased online for a cheaper price. Sometimes it takes a lot of digging but it saves me more than half the price. 

Also be open to buying your books from websites that may be in another country. The shipping may take a little longer but the savings are definitely worth it. And if you have a tablet and don't mind reading you book from that then eBooks are dirt cheap as well. Below are a few sites that I have purchased a few books from recently. 

Original Price: $28

Book Depository: $12 

TheBookne(eBook): $2.50

Original Price: $60

Amazon: Starting at $12

Christian Book: $26

  
 Original Price: $20 
TJMaxx: $10

 Original Price: $25

Barnes and Noble: $4

Some other sites that I frequent to buy books for cheap are eBay, Thrift Books, and Chegg. What are some new books you've purchased recently? Leave a comment! 

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Meet Frugal Shopaholic Brandi Mishonna

Name: 

Brandi Mishonna

Where are you from? 

I am originally from a small town in South Carolina. I consider Charlotte, NC home (home is where the heart is). But currently reside in a small city right out of Atlanta, GA.

Explain your blog or Instagram name? 

My blog name is “pretty girl, Smarter Woman.” When I first joined social media I remember trying to come up with this cool and catchy bio in like 140 characters. So I came up with “she’s a pretty girl but an even smarter woman”. Over the years I shorted it to pretty girl, Smarter Woman and it seemed like the perfect name for a blog targeting women. As much as I am addicted to all things fashion, beauty, and hair I think it’s 100 times more important for my focus to be on my education and intelligence. Basically, it’s my way of saying ‘beauty and brains”. But if I had to choose it’s definitely brains over beauty.

My social media name is the same on every platform. Brandi Mishonna. And that’s my real first and middle name. I have always loved my name so it made it easy when it was time to choose a name for social media. 

Describe your personal style? 

I am so tempted to describe my style as Zara. I wear whatever Zara sells. I like all things trendy, affordable, feminine. I like to find pieces that grab attention and stand out without looking like I am trying to hard or putting a lot of effort in my look. 

Where are your favorite places to shop? 

Zara hands down, Old Navy for jeans,  Boohoo and occasionally Nordstrom.

What does being a “Frugal Shopaholic” mean to you?

Being a frugal shopaholic means that you understand that you don’t have to spend a lot of money to dress well. You can be fashionable and frugal at the same time. It’s okay to not spend a lot of money, especially if it’s not in the budget, buying expensive or designer pieces. I get the best fashion inspiration from every day, regular girls who are shopping at Zara and Target.

What is a frugal shopaholic tip or trick that can share with our readers?

Shop out of season. Right now Zara has a big sale going on and most of the pieces I purchased are for fall. I was able to grab long sleeve tops and dresses for as low as $12.99

Join your favorites email lists. They usually send out deals to those who subscribe to their mail list. Shop during the holidays (even the smaller holidays). Most retailers offer some deal or savings during the holidays. Download apps like RetailMeNot, Cartwheel (Target) for coupons and deals.

How can we keep in touch with you? 

Blog- www.prettygirlsmarterwoman.com

 Instagram and Twitter- @brandimishonna 

You can also hang out with me in my Facebook group- www.facebook.com/groups/levelupsis

Meet Frugal Shopaholic Aileen Luib

Name:

Hi, I'm Aileen Luib!

Where are you from?

I'm from Inland Empire in Southern California.

Explain your blog or Instagram name?

The Baller on a Budget was a project I'd been longing to create for years. I came from a family that always had to budget and it seemed there was never enough money to enjoy nice things or experiences, so over time, I became more resourceful about getting things at nominal prices. After a 2nd job layoff, I realized that job instability and financial insecurity were common issues with people working 9-5 jobs, and both problems cause many to feel like they can't enjoy themselves because of a tight budget. I dove into blogging as a means to inspire these people to become more money-savvy without depriving themselves of the finer things in life.

Describe your personal style?

I don't think I have a particular style - I really like to experiment with different styles. I'm curvy at the hips, so I want to flatter my figure I prefer form-fitting dresses or jeans. Other days I'll throw on some Jordans and streetwear. Sometimes I can throw on a T, ripped jeans, some heels and a coat. My style really just depends on my mood, weather, and the occasion!

Where are your favorite places to shop?

I do the majority of my shopping from Amazon.com, just because I really like their low prices and I get free two-day, one-day or even same-day shipping depending on the item. I shop for basics at Cotton On and I get my outerwear and intimates from H&M since they have quality coats and lingerie for a reasonable price. I get my "trendy" seasonal pieces from the swap meet or even Forever 21 because trends tend to go out of style really fast, and both places I can get some nice pieces for cheap.

What does being a “Frugal Shopaholic” mean to you?

Staying up-to-date with the trends usually means you'll wind up spending money on clothes every season, and it's not practical to splurge on fashion or beauty products that often, especially when these things are priorities in the budget. Being a frugal shopaholic doesn't have to mean that you're "not with the times" or "fashion-forward," you're just more practical and put your real dollars towards things that matter most. Fashion is great, but nothing is worse than having your credit cards maxed out and no money in the bank, even if you're rocking a pretty designer purse or shoes.

What is a frugal shopaholic tip or trick that can share with our readers?

Zero impulse shopping is the rule that I live by. Oftentimes I want to buy something at that very moment, but I'll force myself to stop and give it some time. If I really want it I'll come back for it, but more than half the time my mind changes and I no longer want it. By waiting a while, sometimes you'll also see the same item go on sale or you'll find something even better. Impulse shopping is a result of no self-control, so by turning away a purchase, you can give yourself some time to make a rational decision.

How can we keep in touch with you? 

I post at least once a week at www.theballeronabudget.com and several times a day on my Instagram at www.instagram.com/theballeronabudget.com!

How to Travel Like a Frugal Shopaholic

Its always a good time to travel the world and create new memories with friends and family. But when you travel do you feel like its stressful and too expensive to do on a tight budget? Fret no more. Christen and I travel throughout the year and most of our trips are less than $500 total, including flight, room, transportation and spending money. I want to give you some of the tips & tricks we use to find cheap flights and travel like a frugal shopaholic!

Tip 1: Visit SecretFlying.com to sign up for their email list. This subscription service will send you emails daily on all flight deals domestic & international. Flights ranging from as low as $85 up to about $600-$800. They send emails to you anytime there are flight glitches or fuel dumps. It's a MUST if you want to book cheap flights around the globe. We traveled to Iceland for $250 because we got an email from Secret Flying about cheap flights! So its proven that they are legit!

Tip 2: Travel with a group of friends who are down to explore and stick with them. Its nothing worse than traveling with people who drag their feet. Once you have a good group that meshes well and is down to have a good time and lose sleep if it means you'll get the most out of your trip then only travel with that group, it'll be in your best interest! We've learned this lesson the hard way! Time is money.

Tip 3: Before traveling to your destination, make an itinerary so you know what you will be doing each day and time it helps keep your trip on track and leaves no room for those travel mates who would rather stay at the hotel or Airbnb. You paid to see the world, MAKE MOVES!

Tip 4: Hotels are cool but Airbnb's can be the best bang for your buck especially if you are traveling with a group of more than 3 people. Most Airbnb can be as cheap as $35 a night and sleep 6+ people. It really just depends. So I would suggest that in addition to looking at hotel at your destination that you check Airbnb as well.

Tip 5: Book excursions & tours in advance if at all possible. It cuts out the expense when you are on your trip. Use Viator.com to search excursions and tours at your destination. They give you tons of options to choose from that vary in price. Its also good to search google as well and always search for a promo code for whatever site you choose to book on. By now you know our motto... NEVER PAY FULL PRICE!

Tip 6: Erykah Badu said it best... Pack light. It proves true when traveling abroad for sure especially when you are flying on airlines like Wow Air and Spirit. They charge you for your baggage each leg of the trip if it more than or bigger than a bag that can fit underneath your seat. At a minimum it will be $40 each way for your bag. But if you pack light or utilize packing cubes and vacuum seal bags purchase a smaller carry-on bag you should be good to go. 

Our next international trip is to Havana, Cuba. Talk about excited. We got our tickets for $215?! Talk about cheap... right now that flight is cheaper than a flight to Miami, FL... crazy right. We are still looking at Airbnb's but I definitely take my own advice and follow the tips above. 

If you have any other tips that will help frugal travelers comment below!

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What Derria Wore

More men's wear in my closet in 2017! I'm not afraid to go to the men's section in any store just to see what hidden gems I can find. The shirt I'm wearing is from the H&M men's department in an XS so it fits just like it would in the women's section. 

Lets talk about my love for the Who What Wear x Target line. I've purchased multiple pieces from the line and they continue to deliver quality, simple yet Chic apparel at a reasonable price. Sometimes it's priced cheaper than Targets staple store brands. I've been eyeing these pants for a few weeks and knew they would be perfect for this look. Only $30, not bad! My favorite part of this look is my fanny pack. Christen and I actually bought these at the same time and didn't know it until we got on Facetime and went to show each other per the usual! You'll notice that fanny packs are making a come back and I had to bust out in this faux leather quilted one from Forever21. Got it on sale for $11, it's sold out now but I've provided a link to one similar below. Check out myoutfit deets below!

Top: H&M
Pants: Who What Wear x Target
Bag: Forever21 (Similar)
Heels: JustFab
Glasses: Derria's Closet

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Meet Frugal Shopaholic Kiara Sharde

Name:

Kiara Sharde

Where are you from?

Durham, NC

Explain your blog or instagram name? 
I kept it simple with my first and middle name. Kiara Sharde' sounds spicier than Kiara Holley (my last name) lol

Describe your personal style.
Laid back and cozy. I walk everywhere and I'm on my feet all day at work so I'm usually in sneakers, loose jeans, and a tee.

What are your favorite places to shop?

 Before working as a buyer at Beacon's Closet, a designer and vintage thrift store,  Zara and Urban Outfitters were my usual places. But now just about all of my clothes come from my job. I find the best stuff and I always wonder why some of our sellers trade in their items! During my second week working there, I purchased  a vintage Celine bag (from when Michael Kors was their designer) and a vintage Louis Vuitton bucket bag.

What does being a “Frugal Shopaholic” mean to you? 
Knowing how to finesse your way around the belief that style means spending a lot of money!

What is a frugal shopaholic tip or trick that can share with our readers? 
Everything goes on sale so wait to buy something if you don't need to wear it ASAP. Fall merchandise gets put on the floor in August-September but is always marked down in December. 

How can we keep in touch with you? 
Kiara-Sharde.com and @kiara_sharde on Instagram!

It's a Photoshoot!

Finally! We reunite for a Frugal Shopaholics photoshoot. Though me and Christen live in two different states we see each other at least two to three times a years different events or even just to see each other. This time in particular we planned to fit in a photoshoot on Christen's visit to Charlotte for our nephew's birthday!

We have recently updated the blog so these photos are perfect for our revamp. I really loved our looks and if you like them you can snag them for yourself. Check out some shots from our shoot  and outfit details below!  

Suit Jacket: ASOS (Tall)

Pants: ASOS (Tall)

Shoes: ShoeDazzle

Skirt: ASOS

Shirt: Forever21

Boots: Steve Madden

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Meet Frugal Shopaholic LaNatria Renee Ellis

Name:

My name is LaNatria Renee Ellis.

Where are you from?

 I am a blogger living in Garland, NC. The only claim to fame for my small and rural town is the Brook's Brothers Outlet store lol.

Explain your blog or Instagram name?

My IG name is Caribbean Cowgirl. It is a reflection and reverence to my both my southern upbringing and my paternal heritage (my father is Jamaican).

Describe your personal style?
 My mother and father are to whom I owe the most credit . My mother made sure all 5 kids and my father were always dressed to the nines even on the most modest of budgets. She did so through bargain hunting and thrifting. My father, being Jamaican, was a man of many talents which including sewing and tailoring. Their frugal yet fun approach to looking nice are the inspiration behind my affordable and fun street style looks. Growing up in small town, with such a broad approach to fashion and style, I got plenty of odd stares but I used to it now.

Where are your favorite places to shop?

 My favorite place to shop is a local thrift store in Elizabethtown, NC. Not only am I supporting local charity, but some of my most fabulous finds came from there including my Louis Vuitton Speedy for $15! I am also a very avid online shopper. The sites I frequent most are SheIn, Romwe, H&M, GoJane, Zara and my newest fine therealreal.com.

What does being a “Frugal Shopaholic” mean to you?
Being a 'Frugal Shopaholic' means knowing how to get the best bang for your buck. As a frugal shopaholic, I know what it means to get a deal which includes comparison shopping, reading reviews, and revamping old items through DIY projects.

What is a frugal shopaholic tip or trick that can share with our readers?

A tip I would share is if the deal is too good to pass up...just get it! For a steal you can always redesign the item guilt-free knowing you didn't pay a lot, or you could even bless a friend with it. Anytime I have passed up a deal too good to be true, I have regretted it. 

How can we keep in touch with you? 

You can keep up with me through my blog www.caribbeancowgirl.weebly.com or on Instagram @caribbean_cowgirl.

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Meet Frugal Shopaholic Pashen Jackson

Name:

My name is Pashen Jackson

Where are you from? 

I am from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Explain your blog or Instagram name? 

My instagram name is a compilation of my two passions teaching and thrifting. I am @Thethriftingteacher

Describe your personal style? 

My personal style is professional, modest, and comfortable.

Where are your favorite places to shop? 

I love shopping at Red, White, and Blue Thrift in Berlin, NJ, Bulk Vintage in Philadelphia, PA and of course Goodwill in Anywhere, USA.

What does being a “Frugal Shopaholic” mean to you? 

To me, being a "Frugal Shopaholic" means it's not necessary to break the bank to have love for shopping.

What is a frugal shopaholic tip or trick that can share with our readers? 

One tip I often share is try EVERYTHING on. It doesn't matter what the tag reads or how inexpensive an item is, if it doesn't fit it's money wasted. 

How can we keep in touch with you?

I am currently working on my blog. I can be found on instagram @Thethriftingteacher.

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Frugal Subscription Services

No matter what you are into there is a subscription service for you, whether it be beauty, clothing, jewelry, food, fitness you name it. Most subscription services are curated just for you to fit your specifics needs. Beauty boxes are the best because you get a chance to try and sample new products for a cheaper price than you pay for a single full size product. Monthly subscriptions can range anywhere from $5 per month up to $100. Being that we are fugal shopaholics, we have to highlight affordable subscription services. Here are some popular subscription boxes that are under  $20. To find more subscriptions check out My Subscription Addiction. 

Walmart Beauty Box - $5/season

Each new season brings different product needs and a reason to refresh your beauty cabinet. In your Walmart Beauty Box, you’ll find sample beauty products and tips on how to use those and other items sold at Walmart. 

Birchbox - $10/month

Get a monthly shipment of beauty products for just $10 a month! Your customized Birchbox ships free every month, and you can earn back half the value of your box by reviewing all five of your samples. 50 Birchbox Points equals $5 to spend on your full-size favorites in the Birchbox Shop!

Essence Beauty Box - $15/month

Curated by our trusted Beauty experts, the ESSENCE BeautyBox will deliver coveted beauty finds to your door each month. You’ll have an opportunity to test some of the latest and most innovative products, as well as our proven favorites.

Rocksbox - $19/month

Get 3 pieces to wear on loan. Each piece is hand-selected for you based on your style and specific requests. Wear your pieces as much as you want! Return your Rocksbox set anytime and as often as you like. Every set has 3 pieces of designer jewelry, worth an average of $200 per set. You can buy any piece from your Rocksbox set. Each month you have $10 in Shine Spend to apply towards a purchase. Use promo code frugalshopaholicsxoxo to get one month free. 

Modabox - $19/month

Get styles by an expert who will curate 2 fully customized outfits fit for your lifestyle. Take time to discover the looks from the comfort of your own home and try-on with your existing wardrobe. If you decide to buy the items you get 20% off full box purchase. 

Sign up for ebates and get cashback coupons, deals and savings at your favorite stores! See the Deals of the Week page for additional sales!

- Christen