The Baltimore Sun Weekend Flyers Nov. 5 - 6 2011

This weekend, everyone is starting to brace themselves for the Christmas shopping rush.  Considering how bad the economy is right now, many stores are doing whatever it takes to win over shoppers this Christmas.  Obviously, stores are going to have to use some desperate measures to bring in revenue.

One store that is not taking chances is Target.  Not only did Target include a sales paper, it also has a toy catalog or "wish book" included in the newspaper this weekend.  The book has nothing but toys.  Also, it features a number of coupons for many of the toys in the book.  The prices are good until Thanksgiving.  Who knows just how low those prices will go beyond that?

Bed Bath & Beyond went in a different direction and focused on all the Thanksgiving products one might need.  Their flyer includes a 20% off coupon.  There are some basic items for the home featured in the flyer; however, the focus is on cooking utensils, pots, pans, roasters, plates, and other items needed for a nice Thanksgiving dinner.

Still, there were the usual sales papers and coupons.  Nothing too out of the ordinary as far as coupons go.  Were the sales papers a little thicker this time?  You bet.  Are they going to get even thicker and offer more deals soon?  You know it.  Everyone is going to compete for customers this year.  The stores with the best bargains will surely win.

Shop for Your Home Now

As I've said before, now is the time of year to do some shopping for your home.  If you need a cheap vacuum, now is the time.  If you need a new comforter, run out to your closest Walmart or Target.  Do you need an area rug?  This is the time!

I say this because it is "back to college" season at the stores.  When students go away to college, they need plenty of items.  This is even for returning college students since every dorm and apartment is different.  Stores use this opportunity to cash in.  Most parents want their sons and daughters to be comfortable in college, and they are willing to buy plenty for them.  College students also usually work the whole summer so they can buy what they need for the dorm.  This is perfect for stores suffering in this economy.

On sale at Target this week are vacuums, comforters, a futon, lamps, office chairs, shelves, storage containers, a cookware set, blenders, a microwave, a long mirror priced at only $4, a mini-fridge, and blankets.  Basically, they are selling items for the dorm at a dirt cheap price.  These items work equally as well in your home.  Also, the colors are brighter and trendier since it is designed for college students.  So keep an eye out for your Target sales paper this week and start shopping!