Extreme Couponing Affecting the Un-Extreme?
So, I received the following email from reader, Rashelle. She is feeling very discouraged about using coupons and even dreads going to the store. Here’s what she had to say:
Hi Collin, I know this may seem odd but I was wondering if you have heard from any readers that they have been feeling down about using coupons lately because I have. Ever since the “Extreme Couponing” show has been airing I feel myself getting looks from other customers. For example, I was at Toys ‘R’ Us the other day with my son and a lady in front of me had items that I had a store coupon for which I wasn’t going to use and I asked if she wanted it, she was very thankful and asked if I was sure I didn’t need it and my son said, don’t worry she has a whole binder of them at home, and her tone changed drastically as she said “Oh, you’re one of Those.”
I was in Publix last night doing my weekly coupon shopping and was flipping thru my binder when a couple of women walked past me, looked me up and down and then one said to the other “she’s loco” (crazy in Spanish) and at checkout a husband and wife came into line behind me at the end of my transaction while my coupons were being scanned and started talking very loudly about how the people on “that show” take advantage of shopping (and I didn’t even have a cart full of stuff).
There have been so many times lately when I feel glaring eyes upon me and I feel I need to justify myself to these people and say I am not a hoarder, I don’t have a small grocery store in my house, I am not clearing shelves, and so on, but of course I just smile and keep my mouth shut. I hate this feeling of being embarrassed and ashamed of my coupons because I use to be so proud and happy of all of my great savings and I don’t want this to ruin couponing for me, but it has left me very discouraged, and instead of being excited to do my weekly trip, I almost dread it. I was just wondering if I am the only one experiencing this behavior. Thanks for your time and for everything you do!
Since I cannot give you a hug (I so love hugs!) or tackle the stores with you, I am hoping that all of you readers can make Rashelle feel inspired to continue being proud to use her coupons! What ways have you motivated yourself in times of discouragement? How have you made your couponing adventures positive and fun?
I feel like Extreme Couponing is starting to ruin it for the rest of us who are not so extreme. I am finding more and more items cleared from the shelves already when I go on my weekly Rite Aid and Walgreens run first thing Monday mornings and I definitely blame the show. The most frustrating thing is, I feel like that show is encouraging people to buy things they don’t need, just to get an overage. Two weeks ago, I was unable to get any Complete Multi-Purpose Contact Lense Solution that with RR and coupon equated to a $1 overage — I couldn’t help but wonder if every person who bought them, did so because they actually planned to use it, or if they were just buying it to make money — I actually wear contacts and sure could have used the deal… Anyway, I hate being lumped as “one of those” couponers because of that stupid show now — but at least we know that WE’RE being honest…
I totally agreed with the fact the people are losing sight of what the coupons are for…. I have about 10 walgreens in a 8 mile radius and before the show I use to always find everything in the middle of the week, now if I’m at the store past 9am everything pretty much is gone (it’s is ridiculous) I was at kroger this past Sunday went to get the last of the mega sale event (only 10) items it was about $30 a couple was behind me and he saw the savings with the card and was impressed then I pulled my coupons and went down to $12 so I ask the cashier if he could check because I didn’t see the $5 of the mega sale and I grab the wrong… well the guy behind me said didn’t you just save a lot that can buy something else without coupon and I said, yes, but if I need to get something else I would get something I need, so I went to get it, came back the cashier scanned it and the total came down to $8 so I paid him and he handed back my change, my receipt and 8 catalina coupons that printed and the guy behind me said.. uhhh is not enough all she save that you have to give her more coupons….. I just ignore him look at his wife that was very nice and apologize for the minutes I made them wait.
So yes things are changing but so is life, it never stays the same so we just have to adjust, now what I do instead of a big order and break it into 2 transactions and have my hubby do one and I do the other, follow the rules all the way don’t use more coupons that I’m allow to and I hardly have any problems. So keep your spirits high keep couponing in a honest way and enjoy your saving.!
Good for you! I can get so stressed trying to get the right 10 items to get the $5 off, and sometimes they have other promos that the tags look similar. Don’t worry about the haters, laugh your way out of the store. It’s money, baby. I stay home with toddler and count that as ‘my job’: to coupon and save money on what the family NEEDS. I may have a supply of paper towels, a few bottles of shampoo, dish soap, etc but it only takes up a couple of shelves in the garage, NOT the whole garage.
Yes, TV has now given couponing a bad name, but I agree, it will pass. It’s a fad now for some, but for others it’s been a way of life for a WHILE!
I don’t carry a binder with me but just bring the coupons that I intend to use. If I see a deal & I don’t have the coupon I’ll come back later with it.
I get why a lot of people who watch the are angry since the show seems geared not to show people how to budget, be frugal, or coupon responsibly. Besides showing coupon fraud the show routinely shows couponers clearing the shelves and hoarding. The show also seems to promote the attitude that everyone can get everything free which is bogus. The attitude of many of those on the show who feel entitled to expect to get everything for free to me is also pretty obnoxious. It’s really unfortunate that TLC turned the show into the nutjob couponer of the week rather than a serious show about how to budget and save money with coupons.
Another big problem with the show is that it’s false. It’s the same formula. They have a couponer show you their hoard stash and then try and get $1500 for $5 most of which is stuff that is obviously not needed and where they exceed the capacity of the register software and tie of 1 checkout line for hours. I expect that TLC is only interested in showing couponers on huge shopping trips where they pay close to nothing and where they have a large stash hoarded maybe for items that they don’t even use (like the lady who had 1 1/2 years worth of diapers and no kid).
They aren’t counting in the cost of buying newspapers or coupons. And I don’t know any stores in the DC area where I live that would allow double coupons on 1000 like items. Except for a couple episodes where the people were buying real food most of these shopping trips I assume were designed just for the show to make them look like nuts.
IMO you just have to let it not bother you and continue to do couponing responsibly. I’m guessing that a lot of new couponers will fall out of it within a few months after they find out that it’s not normal to go on $1500 shopping trips where you pay $5 with coupons and that you can’t live off of mustard.
Because of the show it seems that many of the stores are putting new limits on coupons so I don’t see TLC being able to make that many new episodes with people buying huge quantities of like items and getting double coupons on them.
The manufacturers I expect may start cracking down on the selling of coupons and inserts, which to my knowledge is illegal.
Sadly, I expect that for the next year couponers will not be looked that favorably by many people. The only thing that you can do I believe is to smile, be polite, and show that you’re a normal person trying to save money for your family and following the coupon rules.
Well said!! 🙂
Carol, you hit the nail on the head!
Sorry you feel so down…I’m lucky I have great cashiers at my Target and CVS who know me and some even use coupons themselves. Just stay strong, keep using your coupons and try to let what other say roll off your shoulders. Remember what your goal is and that you are a good person, share coupons with other, and pass on donations, etc to friends and people in need. You aren’t doing anything wrong!! Try not to watch the show and don’t let it get to you. THIS TOO SHALL PASS!!!
Please do get discouraged….using coupons is the best! LOL…U r saving money and their not 🙂
I have trouble sometimes also with cashiers not wanting to honor coupons, i dont let that discourage me i just go to another cashier and usually i have no problem. Coupon and love it it’s definitely worth it 🙂 ENJOY!!
I have always couponed. But I didn’t really start paying attention until a couple of months ago. My husband is in the Army and when they almost took his pay because of the budget sitauation I paniced. How am I gonna feed my kids what are we gonna do? Now I don’t have to worry about food cause I coupon and am able to feed my family with little money out of pocket. I don’t do the extreme carts full of food But I do hold out for the Free food and get enough for my family. So when i get those looks and I do I just smile. I know im doing nothing illegal cause I read my coupons and their store policies. So shame on them for not wanting to save money and while Im on vacation from all the money I’ve saved they are gonna be at home stressing and wishing they were on vacation.
I totally feel your pain. If you’re like me, you feel good about saving money while still providing for your family and the coupon haters ruin your buzz by making you feel bad about it. The important thing to remember is that everyone has the opportunity to save they just don’t have the sense to do so. Be proud of being frugal. In this economy you either have to be a billionaire or a smart shopper to provide for your family. They’re just jealous of your smarts. 😉
I’ve been in similar instances. I just think, REALLY??? You might have mean words to say but really when it comes down to it the jokes on THEM paying full price when you are walking out close to paying nothing. Who’s the idiot now?
Rashelle,
Couponing is about making YOUR family dollars go further. If those people can afford not to put the effort into getting the best price possible I say great for them. As for me and my family, money doesn’t go far enough with kids. I personally do not have the amount of hours in a week the “Extreme couponers” seem to have to work on couponing, I do what I can with what I have.
My dad asks me how I save as much as I do…I tell him it takes a little effort and it goes a long way. Remember…it’s not about anyone else…its about doing our best for OUR families with what we have.
Be proud of what you are doing for your family and smile at the sour people …it’s their pocketbooks which are thinner not yours.
God bless,
Lorrie
Lorrie, You are exactly right it’s not about them it’s about your family and making your money goes a far as you can. I say to heck with the “Haters” do what is right for your family.
Laugh yourself all the way to the bank honey…you’ll get over this quickly when you do!
IT IS CALLED ENVY!!!!!
ENVY
ENVY
ENVY!
Those people are jealous that you take the time, have the dedication, and you ARE saving money.
If they had coupons, they would be THE SAME WAY! Just like the woman who was so gracious to accept your coupons to save a few bucks… but of course did nothing for herself to get those coupons. In my eyes… TIME=MONEY. Clipping, organizing, scanning, and planning = TIME. Therefore the money you save on your purchases is just what you are owed. Simple as that!
So get up, get happy, and call them LOCO because they are paying full price! They are the crazy ones.
I feel your pain, Rashelle. Since the show’s been aired, my hubby often asked by his co-worker at work whenever they found out I’m using coupons. One time, his co-worker said ‘Oh, so your wife’s the one who cleared Gerbes’ shelves!’ My hubby said NO and said he was just kidding, but when I heard about it, I was so sad. Of course I didn’t clear the shelves and never done like that at any stores and never will, and I shop rarely at Gerbes. Definitely many people who watched the show, believe the couponers shop like that which isn’t true. I read few ladies’ blogs who were on the show, they all asked by TLC to shop extremely for them. But the show never says about it. That’s why the people misunderstanding to us, normal couponers.
I really hope that shows will be end soon, and everything will be back to normal. Also, I sometimes see the people who using coupons at the store, and chat each other a little bit about how awesome to use coupons to save money. That’s my favorite time at the store. 🙂
I know what you mean. I had one of my fav cashiers tell me that ever since the show came on they have al ot of people “thats are supposedly couponing.” She knows who her regulars are and that we’ve been there since before the show aired. All the same I still had to justify my stockpile to my family after they saw my stash. I just explained to them that obviously im not a hoarder but couponing doesnt make it easier for me to be a stay at home mom. Hang in, for some its a fad that will pass and let us serious coupon shoppers continue
I feel the same as most. This show has ruined the coupon experience. A lot of shelves are now cleared around here. You know these companies are now going to crack down on coupons in general. Stores are going to change their policies etc…
Well, I am a Senior Beauty Advisor for Walgreens in Michigan and I encourage my couponers in what they are trying to accomplish. I even order extra product for my regulars if they notify me in time. Since the show “extreme couponing” has aired, I have noticed a change in the attitudes of my customers towards my usual and my new couponers, sometimes in a very negative way or a good way.
When reading the reader’s email, it brought to mind this incident that happened at work. I was taking care a one of my new couponers through several transactions, so that she had to do to spend the least amount of money. Behind her in line was and older woman that was grunting and commenting things like, “This seems like a waste of time” and “I don’t understand why people go through all of this for stuff.” I could see the insecurity rise in the face of my new couponer, so when I finished ringing her up, ( like a minute or two after the older women hand approached my counter) I quickly added up her savings and shouted excitedly, ” You just saved $178 and only spent $27.” Then I asked her how long it took her to clip her coupons and search the ads for sales, she replied, “It took about 2 hours.” Then I reminded her that technically she made about $90 an hour and that is no waste of time when you need what you are buying. After the whole ordeal the disgruntled older woman’s demeanor changed and she then admitted that maybe she misjudged the “fad” as she put it. My new couponer left happy with awesome saving and I felt great that I corrected a non-couponer’s perception.
So, don’t let anyone discourage you. What you are doing for you and your family is awesome and can help you do things that you may have not be able to do otherwise.
Thank you, Tonya, for your positive comments towards your couponers! It is employees like you who make it easier for those of us who are doing it the right way.
I loved your story!! Thanks for sharing.
I also feel very good when my cashiers tell me how much money I saved for the order. 🙂
I’m in Michigan and would love to shop at your store. Are you anywhere near St. Clair County???
My store is in Wayne County at the border of Oakland County. So, I’m afraid I may be too far awy for you 🙁
I’m so sorry to hear that i get the same reaction from people and even the cashiers, they see me with coupons in my hands they start talking but like you said i don’t clear out the shelf or , anything, i buy what i really really need, what i do is just keep on shopping don’t pay attention to anyone, and do i do, they are just jeaulous that they can’t do it or they are to ambarrased to save money i think you should be if you don’t, so don’t worry about it do what you do.
Other customers giving dirty looks doesn’t really bother me much as the employees themselves. I am not a couponer, but whenever Walgreens has FARR items in their weekly ad I would go into the stores. Usually make 2-3 transaction in the beauty department. They would give me an attitude as they ring me up. Every time they would give me an excuse for everything. “One per customer, you gotta walk out the store to use the RR on your next trip, you do this for a living, kid? etc” I’m a college student, so whenever they have deals on hygienic items I take my opportunity. The WG stores around our area literally looks at the door to see if a couponer or non couponer customer walks in. Every time I walk up to the register to check out, the cashier would page the manager over. Manager would stand there watching the transaction. I believe the stores around us hire “aholes”. They seem to follow/stalk coupon shoppers more often than stacking goods up on the shelves or helping customers out. I came across a frequent-coupon shopper at WG, and she told me to spoke to the DISTRICT manager. He didn’t seem to care about coupon shoppers. Therefore, I haven’t stepped foot in Walgreens even if I need to buy a necessity without using coupons/deal seeking offers. They don’t deserve my money! I haven’t touched a coupon for months after all those horrible experiences I had with using them. I was discouraged to a point I gave up even before I start to learn how to clip and use coupons efficiently.
That has always been my experience with Walgreens which is why I won’t go there even when it’s an incredible deal. I gotta vote with my $$$ (and coupons are $$$ once they are reimbursed)! I hope you have a CVS near you – if you do, try it. They are amazing!
I am sorry to hear of your experience with Walgreens. I am a Senior Beauty Advisor for Walgreens and I love my coupon shoppers. I respect what they are doing and I do whatever is neccessary to help them. So, don’t let them get you down, ever!
I don’t worry about it – Sticks and stones! I don’t care what strangers think about my shopping habits – they don’t pay my bills, or walk in my shoes – they are entitled to their opinion but it is THEIR issue not mine or yours!! Let it roll off your back like water off a duck’s back…seriously! Keep your head held high – you have nothing to feel bad, embarassed or flustered about. You have every right to use coupons that are available to EVERYONE. That danged show really skews what most of us enjoy doing, which is saving some $$ but not having a grocery store in our basement. T.V. is great entertainment but let’s remember that it is not a true reflection of who we avid couponers are. Besides, do we believe everything we see on T.V. and read these days??
I know how you feel. A friend of mine was telling me about how a lady behind her in line said “Good grief!” and eye rolled her when she pulled out her coupons! Then, less than a week later, I was in the store and the cashier was running my coupons when a couple got in line behind me and the guy said, “Oh good lord, not coupons!” I couldn’t believe it!!!! I just try to remind myself about all the times I’ve had people give me nice comments. How I’ve literally had some people circle back after seeing my binder to ask me questions. How I have introduced a few people to couponing and have seen them save so much $. How the little old man put back his coffee b/c his wife didn’t have a coupon for it and I immediately whipped out a high dollar one and gave it to him so he could have coffee – how grateful they were! And, best of all, how when I went home and told my husband he said, “Honey, just remember – we’re laughing all the way to the bank! We’re debt free; how much debt do you think that couple has?!” Keep fighting the good fight!!!!!
I only just started couponing on a regular basis. I am not sure how the extreme couponer’s get away with what they are doing because all the stores in our area have so many rules now to prevent it that I don’t think it would be easy to do. I too carry a binder with me. I like having my coupons organized so if I do find a sale on something that was not advertised and I have a coupon I can grab it. I have to admit I have gotten looked at very differently when I have stocked up on HBA, I am NOT a hoarder but I have a large family and I do like to stock up when I can get the best deal on soaps, shampoo, and other such items just because we do use them. I am proud of what I save and try to look past those who look down on me for using my coupons. Sometimes I do feel like I get dirty looks but unless they are willing to feed my family of 7 they can keep their looks and comments to themselves.
one thing I was wondering about is this…
what about when a shopper uses many coupons and clears a shelf of a certain item. Then you come behind them and can’t use your ONE coupon because there are no items left. Should there be a code of ethics where you leave some for others- it’s a basic elementary concept of sharing. Some people just want to use one coupon to get that one item for their family. After many times of this happening- a normal person gives up on couponing (and saving a few bucks for their family budget).Hopefully the next time some major couponers clear a shelf, think of the other shoppers coming behind you.
AMEN! Ever since that darn show started, my CVS has been cleared out of sale items all week! I guess everyone is getting up at 7 AM on Sunday and hitting it hard.
I am pretty new to couponing and I have felt the same way. I always feel like people are judging me. Mostly people behind me in line… a couple of people have mafe comments but not all bad. People say “oh you are an organized couponer” I just smile and say yes, i try to be. I get a lot of stares and impatient people huffing and puffing and I feel bad but,
I am learning to not let other people affect me. They are not the ones that pay your bills, they don’t put a roof over your head and they certainly don’t feed your family. Times are tough and we have to do whatever it takes to provide for our family. Hang in there and don’t be discouraged, you and your family are what’s most important. Next time someone says “oh, you’re one of those” just smile and say “if by ‘one of those’ you mean a woman that is willing to do whatever it takes to provide for my family during these rough times, then yes, I AM ONE OF THOSE AND MY FAMILY LOVES ME FOR IT” :O)
LOVE!!!! Your last statement!!! Very classy and very true!
Thank you Maria!
I tend to be a little sarcastic 🙂
I HATE THAT SHOW!!! People think I’m some awful hoarder & trying to scam the stores. (I actually had a target store manager tell me that I was a SCAMMER) All I have to say to those people that are nasty is just SUCK IT! I am an HONEST couponer. I follow the rules and I am pleasant to everyone .
I have noticed that some cashiers act as if it is coming out of their pocket. They really are huffy and rude. I ALWAYS say hello to my cashier and ask how their day is.
I honestly don’t care what other people think. I am saving money and in these hard times, I am PROUD to do that. What we do is honest and that is what the coupons are for, to be used.
Really…who are the crazy ones?? The people who pay full price and throw away their hard earned money…NOT us.
<3
Rashelle, I am a person who has been couponing for over 16 years, I am only 32. I was raised in a house where my family didn’t have a lot of money and used coupons to save where we could. One way I make it easier on myself is by taking a family member or friend with me when I go shopping. I have gotten my whole family into using Collin’s website and I also have taken a lot of advice that Collin gives and I have found coupon friendly cashiers. It makes it easier when you can talk about couponing with a cashier while you are checking out. I feel bad that you were treated this way because most people are not like that show. We don’t have big piles of stuff we will never use. I hope you find a friend that will go shopping with you. Most people will not say anything when there is more than one person couponing, and if they do than you have someone you can talk to about it. I wish the news would educate people on what it is we really do. Most of us are good honest people just trying to put our money to better use. As an Accountant it isn’t in my nature to waste money.
Hi Rashelle,
I so feel your pain. I’m even getting slack from my sister. The other day, I went to Rite Aid and Lowes and spent $11 on a trip that would’ve been almost $45 without couponing. I, admitedly, made the mistake of posting my trip on FB for some of my couponing friends to see. The first person to respond was my sister, which prompted an avid discussion, for lack of a better word, about my couponing. She says that I’m becoming obsessive and that there is no reason for me to buy the items I buy if I don’t need them. I went through all the explanations to help her understand the benefits of couponing, but she just didn’t get it. I even went as far as asking her how it made sense to spend $11 on 3 or 4 things (and stop couponing) when I could get 20 or 30?? That’s when the discussion ended.
Ultimately, I vented with my other sister, who is a couponer, and realized that I can’t make her understand. What I’m doing is for me, my family and people in need. I find solace in that what I’m doing not only helps me, but others as well as I inevitably end up donating to people in need or giving stuff away to my family. Yes, I have a mini-stockpile, but it’s of items that I know we can and will use. Anything above and beyond that, I give away.
So, as everyone else has said, keep doing your thing. You are not doing this for anyone else, but for you and your family. And, if nothing else, realize that these people are not paying your bills. You are! And you have to do what’s best for you!
Good luck!
I hear ya! That extreme show needs to go away! Those of us who are “Normal” couponers should all be respectful of the others who live in their town! I figure, really, do I need 16 bottles of pepto right now??? 🙂 Chances are it will be on sale again in the future! So keep on clipping & hold your chin up high!!!
My husband works in reality TV show production and there are 2 ways to get a show off the air. 1. DON’T WATCH IT!! low ratings = cancellation. 2. Target the advertisers. Email/phone them etc. If the advertisers think that their products are being associated with something negative – they will pull their ads and that means the show won’t have the monetary support it needs to stay on the air.
I agree that I’ve gotten more annoyed looks at the checkout stand and its a little annoying. However, I would say turn it to your advantage! I’ve noticed that since the show started, at least the cashiers seem more aware and often ask if I want to do multiple transactions. That’s when I use it for my benefit. I politely say no and then follow it by something like, “I’m not really into alll that extreme couponing, I try to keep it simple.” the cashiers usually then laugh and we talk a lot,a nd the funny thing is that then they seem to get curious and really notice the awesome savings I’m getting, so if you can try to turn it to someething positive it will help with the other looks. I would also say maybe cut yoru losses. I found I was getting so frustrated with the bad customer service at a nearby Walgreens that I either go to another store in the neighboring town where they dont have so many issues, or I really make sure I really am getting awesome deals, becuase honestly the stress of fighting (politely) with cashiers there was not worth my time and energy. Hope this helps, don’t give up! Also, one thing I’ve found in other matters of my life (I am handicapped) is that when people give you a funny look just ignore it, and be able to laugh at yourself as well. Its okay to admit that we look a little crazy with our binders and kids being crazy and coupons falling out of our jackets, but then when you go home and add it to the stockpile it makes you smile, so don’t let it get to you!
My standard answer is “I wish I was that good!” Then just smile and move on! Life has taught me to have thick skin, and since saving money is much more important to me than any stranger’s option, I can laugh it off!
Bottom line – We know how to save, and they wish they could!
I TOO AM AN EMBARRASSED COUPONER. I actually feel ashamed because the show brings negative connotation to couponing. I cannot tell you the number of times people have come up to me when I am clipping coupons while my children play at a park etc. and have said, “oh are you an extreme couponer?” all with a wee bit of negativity. I always respond, “um, no, I am a military wife and do not have the time, resources or ability to act like those raving lunatics”. I try to save 30 percent of our grocery bill with coupons. Then, most times, people ask me questions about how to coupon. I love that part. I don’t like the part where I feel the strange and dirty looks. Or the unfriendly check out people. It is rare, EXTREMELY rare, for me to purchase more than 1 or 2 of any item. We live in military housing and don’t have the storage. However, if peanut butter is on sale and I have a coupon, I will buy 20 containers. Why? Because Peanut Butter is the only source of protein for me. I eat it at least 4x a day. So, my dear Rashelle, no worries, you are not alone. I think that show is shameful, disgusting and unrealistic. It is no different than any other scripted “reality” show. We can now be sisters in shame!!! 🙂 God’s greatest blessings to you and yours!
Bev Eagen
I’ve had the bad experiences with the dirty looks for having more than 1 coupon, and also for having shelves cleared out at Walgreens. I went to a garage sale a few weeks ago, and 90% of what they were selling was stuff clearly from Walgreens, shampoo, body wash, and tons more. There was one kind of body wash that I actually counted 31 bottles of the exact same thing!
Keep your chin up Rashelle! I think it’s great that your son knows about coupons and it’s really nice that you are setting a great example for him by sharing your coupons with strangers. I love coupons! I can spend all the money that I’m saving on other things. I have more room in my budget and a fuller life, because I use coupons. I can’t imagine that I will ever stop using them. I always apologize to the people behind me in line and I try to be very gracious to the cashiers, but there will always be people that are grumpy or have negative things to say. They are just unhappy people and I try to avoid them at all costs! Couponing is a really fun thing for me and I want it to stay that way. I also think people that don’t use coupons are FOOLISH. It is crazy to me to spend more money on something if you don’t have to.
And in response to K’s comment – I don’t go to Walgreens or even look at their ads anymore! They just upset one too many times and it is NOT worth getting worked up over!
WOW. CVS is that way in my area. I love my WALGREENS!! I think it’s all about the managment and cashier rapport.
You know, it never ceases to amaze me the effects TV can have on people. I don’t have cable so I miss out on viewing the show, though I can say that without too much disappointment. Are we to assume that all the people out there buying fruits and veggies are members of “The Biggest Loser”. Or a guy who is dating with no commitments is a contestant on the “Bacholer”. Better yet, how about the young pregnant girl, she must be one of “those” girls that made a pregnancy pact with her friends. I think not! Why is it that by trying to be responsible with our money and provide wisely for our families, we are forced to deal with people that judge through ignorance??
Please look at YOUR situation and stand proud! You have a reason for couponing, whether it be because of tight finances, a way for you to be able to get a personal high on the money you are saving, or just because you couldn’t imagine paying full price for something. Your reason is your reason, so you are “one of those”. You are one of those that takes the time to shop wisely. You are one of those that contributes to the economy by making purchases to support companies ranging from the company you get your papers from, to the store you are making your purchase in. And I’m guessing that you are one of those that donates your extras to someone else in need, or uses your good deals to make someone else’s day with a gift basket you may not be able to afford other wise.
My recommendation is to do something good with your couponing where you can see the immediate results. Whether it be a small thank you basket for your mail carrier, or cold treats for the garbage collector, or donating free formula to a friend who is having a hard time. Do something to remind yourself that you are a good person and it will help give you that little bit of feel good feeling to motivate you to continue your good couponing!
Better yet, get something super cheap, like a pack of gum (with your coupons, of course) or the get a free smoothie from McDonalds coupon, and when your done checking out with that rude cashier or fellow shopper, hand that item to them and say “I would like you to have this. Thank you patience with “one of those” people. I hope you have a great day!” Kill them with kindness and walk away knowing you probably just made that person seriously reconsider saying something rude the next time the feeling strikes them. Leave them with the feeling that what THEY were doing was wrong, not what you were doing!
Good Luck, Couponer! Know that you are not alone, and have no need to be ashamed!
You keep your head up Rashelle and keep going with those coupons. Who are they to judge you. I think people are stupid if there not trying to save money, unless they make so much they can just throw it away…if so throw some my way or better yet to the families hit by the tornadoes!
For the people that are giving you dirty looks and saying mean things to you or in your ear shot…There are far more horrible things going on in the world like wars, natural disasters, nuclear spills, people starving, children on the streets, etc they should be putting their energy towards.
And I’m just going to go ahead and say it those people making you feel bad about coupons are ignorant, rude and you shouldn’t feel bad or put any energy towards thinking about them. So have a great week. I will be using my coupons proudly tomorrow and thinking of you Rashelle! You Go Girl!!!
Hugs to you and to Collin for putting this up to blog about.
have been couponing for two and a half years…best thing ever did…have name brand items and food in the house….extreme couponing to me a bit over the top…majority of stores don’t have double coupons…I do have storage in my basement and it isn’t from clearing shelves…just good hard work…the thrill and great couponing…next time someone upsets you just laugh to yourself..think how much you save…how much better you eat and how much money you save to spent on other items…like vacation and time with your family….
i have not had that problem yet. i just came from H E B and i had one of the employees tell me she was admiring my coupon binder. also at my cvs i have become very friendly with the employees and i even give them extra coupons i have. they know me by name and i know all their names.
SWEETIE, KEEP BEING YOU. YOU ARE NOT HERE TO LIVE UP TO SOMEONE ELSES EXPECTATIONS BUT YOUR OWN. YOU HAVE TO DO WHAT IS BEST FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. THE PEOPLE WHO ARE MAKING YOU FEEL THIS WAY ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR FAMILY, YOU ARE SO IT DOESN’T MATTER WHAT THEY THINK. I HAVE BEEN COUPONING SINCE I WAS 9 YEARS OLD AND I HAVE RAN INTO QUITE A BIT FROM BOTH SIDES OF THE COIN. I VIEW THIS AS ONE OF MY JOBS AND MY PAYCHECK IS WHAT I HAVE SAVED OR STRETCHED. I AM BASICALLY LIVING OFF WHAT I CAN GET FREE OR NEAR FREE USING COUPONS RIGHT NOW BECAUSE HUBBY HAS CANCER AND HAS BEEN OUT OF WORK FOR 8 MONTHS. THE LOOKS PEOPLE ARE GIVING OR THE REMARKS THEY ARE MAKING ARE NOT PUTTING FOOD ON MY TABLE, I AM BY UTILIZING WHAT I HAVE AT HAND. IF THE COMPANIES AND STORES DID NOT WANT YOU TO USE THE COUPONS THEY WOULD NOT HAVE THEM AVAILABLE TO US. BE PROUD OF WHAT YOU ARE DOING AND SIMPLY SMILE AT THE ONES WHO ARE NOT UNDERSTANDING ABOUT IT. I HAVE RAISED 3 KIDS AND 4 GRANDKIDS USING COUPONS. I HAVE ALSO FED FAMILY AND FRIENDS AND DONATED TO THE FOOD MINISTRIES FOR MANY YEARS USING COUPONS. IN THE EARLY ’80’S(DURING THE RECESSION) MY BUDGET FOR GROCERIES WAS $282/MONTH. I FED 18 PEOPLE EVERY MONTH AND COUPONS WERE A MUST. WE HAD A LOT OF CASSEROLES AND BEAN DISHES BUT WE ALL ATE AND WERE HAPPY CAMPERS. BE PROUD OF WHAT YOU DO. (((HUGS)))
Although i understand what your saying i have chosen to not let “those” people (the non couponers) ruin my shopping trips. In my situation, this is my only option. I am currently unemployed and have 2 small children to provide for so i look at it that this is my means of providing for my family. Please dont get discouraged! they are just jealous that they are not saving like you are. Happy Savings!!
I agree about how people feel! I too used coupons and would buy 3 – 4 items of one thing. I never went extreme. I am trying to get back into couponing but the greedy stockpilers are making it difficult for me. They line up in front of the Rite Aid store before they open and wipe everything off the shelves. I now have a very serious reason to coupon! My husband was diagnosed with Acute Leukemia a year and 1/2 ago. He had a bone marrow transplant and has had some serious complications. He can’t work and I can’t work because he needs a full time caregiver. We can only get 20.00 a month in foodstamps because we are a few short dollars over the limit with his social security income. We have tons of expenses due to this and greedy people make it difficult to be successful at couponing. I think that they should all feel bad! There are people out there who have a genuine need!
I totally agree that Extreme Couponing has very negatively impacted my shopping trips. It seems some people in my area are watching that show and are under the impression that the “EC way” is the way to use coupons. Meaning no newspapers available on the stands, shelves that are cleared all week long, etc. I am not upset at the people who think badly of the Extreme Couponers, because I do too. They frustrate me and make me angry, and I am usually very verbal about announcing that I am not one of them when I am in the stores. It just very much upsets me that these nutcases are so negatively impacting the rest of us who are normal couponers (not hoarders and shelf-clearers) just trying to save money for our family – on real food that we actually eat and a reasonable number of products that we actually use.
Rachelle, i absolutely LOVE couponing! I have only made 3 shopping trips with coupons but collectively i saved over $140! You dont have to justify your spending/shopping to these strangers. They are just jealous cause they know that they are over spending on their groceries and you are saving but they dont want to put the effort into it. Hold your chin up and dance as you see those numbers go down with each scan of the coupon! At least then they will actually have a reason to be staring! lol
Oh Rashelle,
I have had to endure a lot of the same lately. My local grocery store used to take my coupons without a second glance and now they sit and literally dig through my cart making sure I have the right products that match the coupons…eventhough the register will beep and reject the coupon if the item is incorrect! It has been driving me mad. But I justify what I am doing by being able to keep our family of 5’s budget more in check than I ever have before, while also supplying a struggling family with “goody” boxes when I have “extras” that I’m able to score for cheap…and that in and of itself gives me the drive to keep going. When I am able to pack up 4 boxes of food and send it to my sister and her boys who I know desperately need without batting an eye…nothing makes me feel better! And honestly when a little 10 year old boy comes up and hugs you and says…how did you know we needed toilet paper? We were almost out!?! Brings tears to your eyes and makes you grateful that God has blessed you to be the giver! 🙂 Hang in there!
~Andrea
I just got back into couponing lately.. and I went to Target today.. I have to bring along my kids.. so I had an 8 month old strapped to me in the Ergo and a 2 1/2 year old in the front screaming (she was hungry for lunch which we were heading to after this trip) so at first I was getting glares for my multiple transactions and coupons but after awhile the kids start to distract them more so it all works out in the end.. I just kinda have to laugh it off when I am out.. I usually have something going on that embarrassing whether its the screaming hungry kids or the big binder of coupons.. I’m used to it, and I don’t care what people say.. it’s saying my family money in the end. I do get nervous when it gets time to check out even though I have all my coupons in order and they are correct, and everthings seperated out, some cashiers are definately nicer and more patient than others, especially when the baby hooked to me is grabbing at all my stuff in front of me 😛
I am feeling the burn everything I go shopping, and I am nowhere near being an extreme couponer. (Although I was quite proud of myself this morning — I had to buy some ear wash for my hubby this morning at Rite Aid. I got it on sale and got plus rewards; turned around and used them on sale Kellogg’s ceral with the Cars promo. In the end, I will end up getting the ceral for free plus $1.80 back — just because my hubby’s ears are clogged).
A couple of years ago, when all of the Nanny shows came out, I couldn’t take my large crew of kids anywhere without someone suggesting that I either leave them at home or call Nanny 911. This would happen even when they were being absolutely silent! (Actually, more often, because folks thought they could spew their bile and be heard.) But, now the frenzy is over and I hear nothing but compliments.
Let the bitter people be jealous, because that is what it is. You know you are doing nothing wrong. They have to live with themselves — don’t let them live in your brain rent free.
Rachelle –
I do understand, the eye rolls, and the banter about the craziness of couponing. But while they are complaining about me and my coupons, I’m saving money. With the money I save, I can go to Starbucks and get me a pick me up carmel frap, if I need too. 😉
My take is this: My husband works VERY hard to provide for our family. And I feel that it is my responsibility to make his check stretch as far as I can. We have 4 kids, 4 years old and under, including 10 month old twins. I will cut/print as many coupons the stores and will allow me to use. I don’t abuse the system, but I will take my share of free and cheap items! I do get looks, but I don’t care. The people who snob coupons are throwing money away. They could just hand me that money and then I wouldn’t have to coupon. But I would still, because I love a deal 🙂
Stay Strong!!
S!
I have had some very good feed back from others and some bad. I started couponing about a year ago and it does seem to be getting harder! Mostly because I spend time finding coupons for deals and get to the store and they don’t have the items, then it feels like a waste of time. I am not a hoarder either, I just use coupons for things that I know I am going to use w/in the next few months. I do enjoy couponing and saving money – it has become sort of a hobby for me, so I think I am addicted regardless of those bad experiences – and yes, sometimes you miss out on a deal, I am not sure if it is all because of shelf clearers or if there are just more people out there aware of couponing. In any case – I know how much money I save, so I’m gonna keep on clipping!
You just have to learn to not care so much about what other people think. Money is a pretty rare thing right now with the economy the way it is. Atleast your doing something about it, these people that are ever so rude are compaining because your using coupons and probably also complaning about how the government is screwing them and they dont make enough money to live on. These people just want something to complain about if they werent complaining about couponing it would be something else. Just focus on taking care of you and your family and say screw them.
First of all, where are they getting all those coupons? The show doesn’t show you how much they pay out of pocket for those coupons so are they really saving??? Also, if you notice most of them depend on their coupons doubling to get the stuff for “free” I live in northern michigan and we don’t have anystores that double coupons so I have to use my coupons wisely to get the best deals. As far as the people giving you dirty looks or making snide comments, just smile you were there first and in the end your the smart one for saving as much as you can. 🙂
All the stores around me have limits on how many coupons u can use and there is NO stacking! The show is just going to make coupon limits worse and stacking!