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There is an ancient Middle Eastern proverb that says “two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor.” On your next “conquer-the-mall” mission, try these tips for shopping and saving with a friend—because sometimes, two can save more than one!

• Clubbing: Warehouse clubs can be a great place to save, but not if you overspend to get quantity discounts. Buy these items with a friend and each will take home half of the bounty with all of the savings.
• Perishables: Produce is least expensive purchased in bulk. For example, a bushel of peaches or flat of strawberries cost less than “by the pound” purchases. Go in on these big buys together and save even more.
• Two Fers: Department stores often run “buy one item and get the another item for a discount.” My friend, Brenda, and I bought a trendy shirt for $20 with the second one free—so we each only paid $10!
• New Card Discounts: If you (or a friend) want to open a store charge account for convenience then do it on a day when you're shopping together. There is usually a “first day” discount that can range from 10-25 percent off all purchases, including clearance items. Pay your friend the cash immediately for your purchases and encourage her to pay the charge account as soon as it arrives in the mail.
• Coupons: After all that shopping and saving, it's time to have lunch and rest. Go to entertainment.com for a coupon booklet that has local restaurant values or check the Sunday paper for the coupon inserts. When you use a coupon, share the savings and double the fun.
  
  

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