Ready, Set, Shop

It’s Black Friday, marking the official start of holiday shopping, for many people across the nation. Stores open their doors earlier and earlier each year, to accommodate the masses. While I typically do not tend to brave the long lines during the Black Friday rush, I do start making lists for the kids, sharing them with relatives, as that tiny bit of panic seems to set in, wondering how it will all get accomplished in a couple of short weeks.

Well, this year, I tried something a little different, by getting a head start on shopping last week, during a trip to BJ’s Wholesale Club. While taking part in two design challenges as part of their BJ’s Wholesale Smart Shopper, I couldn’t help but pick out some things which I thought my children and family members would love for the holidays. Our list of gifts continues to grow with new little family members born into our family, and there’s nothing I love more than watching the excitement on kids’ faces, as they dig into their boxes.

We have plenty of get togethers and events on the books for the next month, so it seems like we are always toting around a bag filled with presents. In this time, someone will randomly drop by, or a party may pop up leaving me without a gift for someone. Having learned this in the past, I’ve started picking up a few “what if” gifts. While roaming the aisles of BJ’s, I noticed an impressive selection of food gift baskets, from brands like Wine Country, Lindt, and Ghirardelli. Their lovely packaging makes for great presentation, so I will definitely be prepared if I find myself in need of an extra something special.

Most of my time at BJ’s Wholesale Club was spent in the toy aisle, which were stocked with a few things from Ryder, Siella, and Gemma’s Christmas lists. Shopkins are huge with the girls right now, so I loved the mega packs they offered. Ryder pretty much only wants Legos for Christmas, so I made sure to get him a few sets. With deals like this, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity, even though I normally don’t start shopping so early.

As part of the BJ’s Smart Saver Challenge, we needed to pick out the perfect gift for friends and family. These Adrienne Vittadini watch and bracelet sets were my pick for “the busy mom,” which the kids will be wrapping up for their Grandmas this holiday.

Siella has been drawing every chance that she gets, so two of these All Media Art Sets made their way into my cart, as I figured Gemma will want to copy her older sis.

BJ’s electronic department had me going crazy. I started to load the cart, but I realized that I had to slow down and save this for another trip back because there was no way to hide everything from the kids. I did pick up some Beats headset for my brother, and a Fitbit for my sister.

Their Black Friday deals, currently underway, include some of my favorite brands and devices, like a great selection of Samsung Smart LED televisions, Canon Rebel T6, Dyson Cordless Vac, and something I’ve had my eye on- a drone from DJI Phantom.

What holiday trip is complete without a few ornaments. I flipped over these multi pack Star-Wars Hallmark ornaments, which will make the best stocking stuffers.

There is still plenty of shopping, but I do feel some sense of relief, having checked some boxes on my list. And I feel even better knowing that I saved a ton on all of the items I purchased so far. If you are not currently a member, BJ’s Wholesale Club is offering consumers a chance to experience the club with a three month membership trial for free! Happy shopping!