I was doing some thinking yesterday as I emptied my suitcase after a business trip (and before another that leaves today). I feel like a rock star these days, as there have been weeks that I've seen 3 cities. Anyways, it's the little things that keep me on track--such as free samples of products (yep, just like Jennifer Aniston's character in Friends with Money).
I love coupons for stores I enjoy (I saved $24 on a recent Victoria's Secret visit). I also am loyal to Sephora just because of the samples and kind customer service folks (the customer service folks wearing headsets really do make for a better experience for the guest!).
Here are some of my favorite brands (mostly bought at TJ Maxx and Marshalls mind you):
Calvin Klein (because of the fit and the way it lasts)
JCrew (because their pants already come worn in and last)
Tommy Hilfiger (because gosh darn it they make the cutest women's undergarments!)
Gap/Old Navy (cheap $1 bath gel don't ya know, and cute skirts etc.)
Bass (love, love, love their outlett store)
Kittery Trading Post (again, the outlett is like the Disney World of outletts, if you have never been it's worth the trip or the visit to their website).
LLBean (hello, if the shoes break we'll fix 'em for free, and I heart the totes, it's all about the totes and supporting the local New England labor--they are one of the few New England-based companies left).
Origins (I'm addicted to the lotion Have a Nice Day, um perhaps it's the fact that it contains caffeine??)
Starbucks/Peets (give me a bold coffee and a good staff to serve it and I'm yours)
Oh, and Tom's of Maine mouthwash is quite delightful and contains no fake sugar (which many of you know I'm very against fake sugar as it gives me headaches). Also, while we're on the natural vein of products--I love Bert's Bees.
So what are your favorite brands? What about samples...are you in love with little products to bring on trips as much as I am *glances at mini Dove shampoos while packing for today's trip*


Comments: 17
I like to buy brand name items in the supermarket rather than the store brands, because I don't want all those independent companies to disappear.
I shop locally for garden supplies and plants, though I could get things cheaper at Home Depot.
So I guess I make my purchasing decisions the same way I decide about political issues. I try to do what I consider to be right. My little tiny contribution might help.
*fist raised for the sheep*
I agree, it's all the best for things that last. :)
Walmart is the bottom of my list, the very bottom for two simple reasons:
1) They don't know where the mothballs are located
2) They don't know where the canning jars are located
3) The employees (except for those in Maine) don't give a shit about the customer that I've seen. The one in my neighborhood is an embarassment next to Target. I heart Target and the hardworking folks that run the store.
You may hate to shop because you have not been treated like a queen. If you are treated kindly in a store, you will love it. Plus, you never know who you might meet while out on the town shopping. Leave your wallet at home--go have some fun!!
Can you tell I'm on a business trip working wayyyy past my bedtme, that's 3 reasons I hate Walmart (except for the ones in Maine)
I liked the car repair place that honored their warranty and replaced the same part three times. And, they fixed a flat tire for free even though I didn't buy the tires there. Unfortunatly, they went out of business.
I am more attracted to the people that sell me things than I am by the names on the products they sell.
Tirerack.com remains the best deal for tires and any repair shop prefers you to use tirerack and get them shipped to the dealer/shop. Neat, huh. So you save and everyone's happy.
I do most of my selling over the phone...so I can't use looks to sell. :( Sorry, that sounded bad, eh? Either way, the people make the shopping experience either good or horrible, and if it's good you'll return.
Bumble does not really agree with my ultra curly hair. I find the $5 stuff works better for some reason. Although for the price, Aveda is the best for expensive hair products (and is cheaper and more natural than Bumble).
But good for you for admitting you are a product whore and have a Target addiction. I have more parts of my wardrobe that get MORE compliments from Target than any other store. Nothing beats my $6 jacket that is not only spiffy, but it came from Target clearence rack. :)
My favorite ones are in Colorado. It's amazing what people toss out from their rich ski mansions. :+)