Starting point for new couponers

This will be the first in a series of posts about learning how to use coupons to drastically cut your grocery budget! 

I get asked all the time what is the first thing a new couponer should start learning/focusing on. Here are my thoughts for newbies.

First, I think you should start accumulating coupons!

• SUBSCRIBE to the Sunday Paper.
• LOOK for blinkies (the little promo coupons in the grocery store).
•  PRINT coupons from reputable coupon sites for products you use. Even if you don't need them right now, most printable coupons are only available for so many prints, so if you see it, print it! There are several printable coupons site links on our homepage. Be sure to set up a separate couponing email so that all your coupons, freebies go to that email address!

Second, Start paying attention to the prices of things you buy most often. You would be surprised at the price differences between stores as well as when a product is on sale! An Example: a teriyaki sauce that is a family favorite, at store A this week it is 4.69, regular price. At Store B it is 3.49, regular price. No sales, no coupons, but over a dollar difference in price. Keep a small price book with you to help you figure out what the Lowest price should be.

Third, familiarize yourself with your favorite grocery stores coupon policy. Many stores have changed their policies recently due to people who abuse coupons (really, who needs 50 bottles of mustard?). The store's coupon policy can usually be found on their website, or you can always ask customer service!

In my area, we have a store that is VERY coupon unfriendly, even though their company website says what the limits are, this particular store is notorious for NOT accepting coupons!

Some stores will accept a Manufacturer Coupon and a Store coupon on the same item (Target, Publix). Some Double coupons (Kroger, Publix, Bi-Lo) Some don't double coupons at all (Food Lion)

Fourth Sign up for companies like SavingStar where you can actually earn cash back on products you purchase in addition to saving while using a coupon

Finally, set a goal. Don't come out of the gates expecting to pay $2 for $100 worth of groceries! It can be done, but you need to be familiar with how and WHEN to use coupons to achieve deals like this! Start small, like you want to save 10% off your grocery bill.

My personal goal is to save at least 50% on each grocery trip. We eat a lot of organic products so this is sometimes challenging, but it CAN be done!!

This is just the beginning,  I will post more at a later date. For now, start with baby steps. But remember, Not every sale is a GOOD SALE!!

Here is an example of a shopping trip this week.
Total before coupons & loyalty card =$107.07

Amount paid= $47.96 (56% savings) not my best, but not bad considering I bought canning supplies (10.50) and organic milk(5.00).

FREE products
2 packages of skittles
2 -20oz. coke zeros
Ronzoni Pasta
Cliff White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Bar (MY FAV)

Under $1.50 products
Nestle Drumstick Cones -$1
Coca Cola 6pk bottles-$1.25
Coke Zero 6pk. bottles- $1.25
Propel Water-.49 each x 8
Iams Dog Food -$1.29
Bolder Potato Chips-$1 a bag x 2(posted link to coupon for this a few days ago)
Stacy Pita Chips $1.45
Pringles- .40 a can x 3
Coles Garlic Bread .49 x 2
IZZE canned juice $1.39

I also got some other frozen items and pretty good prices
Rubbermaid storage containers .59 x 2
Athenos Hummus $1.00

The best part was while I was paying the lady behind me saw my original $107.07 bill, but i was only paying $47.96. She said HOW did you do That?! I love moments like this!

Are you new to couponing, thinking about it, or a seasoned veteran. Feel free to post your comments or tips.