Out of control at the outlets

I may have learned how to outlet shop prior to learning how to read. This knowledge was *that* important to my parents that they would integrate excursions to such establishments into the most unrelated of events. As way of example:

"Grandma's getting married! I think we can fit in a trip to Sawgrass Mills..."

"Oh, you want to look at that college? I think we'll pass that really good Saks outlet."

"No, honey, I know that hotel has the good continental breakfast, but we won't be staying there. There's a hotel IN the Tanger outlets!"

This unique upbringing set me up with a suit of armor that has me ready for all shopping trips, no matter what corner of the world I find myself in. I am mindful, though, that there are many of you who were not as lucky as me. Your parents probably made you have educational summer vacations - you may have attended museums, zoos, national monuments. A lot of good that does you now!

I do feel your pain though, and I'm here to help. (Especially since I refuse to encourage any reader of mine to ever buy retail.) To that end, I have contacted my friends at Chelsea Premium Outlets. They offered some great tips that while won't make up for a lifetime of being unprepared, can help you get up to speed now.

• Check the the outlet website frequently, the center you wish to visit may have a VIP Shopper Club that will give you special discounts in addition to the savings you will already receive at the locations. (At www.premiumoutlets.com, for example, sign up for the VIP Shopper Club. Immediately upon signing up, you will receive a voucher for a VIP coupon book worth hundreds of dollars of additional savings at Chelsea centers.)

 

• Make a weekend getaway out of your shopping trip and ask the center if they work with any area hotels or B&Bs.  Chelsea centers have special "Shop ‘n Stay" packages available, as do some other outlet centers.

 

• If you can’t shop during the week, arrive early in the day or shop later in the day – between 10am and noon and 6pm and 9pm are great weekend times to shop and not have to wait to get a dressing room or check out.

 

• Buy what you love now.  Don’t wait – it will be gone tomorrow.  Merchandise in the outlets sells fast and once they’re gone, the item may never be sold again.

 

• Most stores have traditional return policies.  It is important to check these policies before making your purchase.  Some outlets do not accept returns on clearance merchandise.  Most outlet stores with locations in other outlet centers will allow you to return/exchange merchandise at other outlet locations.  Most outlet stores do not allow merchandise purchased at the outlets to be returned at their full-price stores.

 

• Salespeople at select outlet stores keep client lists and will call preferred clients when new lines are arriving, in advance of sales, etc.  Get to know the shipment schedules for your favorite store; schedule your shopping trips when new shipments arrive to find the best deals.

 

• Each manufacturer and designer operates its outlet store differently so it is best to inquire with store personnel about the merchandise to see if the merchandise is current season or prior season.  Some stores post this information at the front of the store to educate shoppers.

 

• At Chelsea centers, if you are 50 years or older, you can save an additional 10% at many participating stores.  Also, if you are an AAA member, you can show your card to receive a free VIP Coupon Book. (This is true at many outlet centers, so be sure to ask!)
  

 

• Ask for help. You are buying direct from the designers and manufacturers who have extensive knowledge about their products. Whether its creating a perfect table setting or gift ideas, seek assistance.

 

• Know your prices. An educated shopper gets the best deals. What represents good value differs from person to person. Saving 25 percent on a current season designer outfit is the perfect deal for one person and saving 65 percent on last season’s cashmere coat could also be someone’s deal of the century.

 

• Get a list of stores first – request a brochure or visit the center’s website. Plan your strategy so you know which stores you want to visit first.

 

• Did you know that our outlet centers sell gift certificates? They do, in all denominations and can be purchased online.