Black Friday Insider Shares 12 Years of Expert Advice for a Smarter Shopping Season

Black Friday veteran shares advice on navigating the sales event after 12 years of writing about it. In 2025, Black Friday falls on November 28, followed by Cyber Monday on December 1. Most official sales start on Wednesday or Thanksgiving, with some of the best deals beginning on Friday in the early hours. According to a seasoned Black Friday shopper, the sales event has grown significantly over the years, with nearly every deal available online, making it easier for customers to participate without leaving their homes. However, this convenience comes with a price, as the marketing and chaos surrounding the event can be overwhelming, making it difficult for consumers to determine if a deal is worth their time and money. "I've been writing about Black Friday for 12 years, and I've seen it grow from a one-day event to a month-long sales extravaganza," said the veteran shopper. "It's essential for customers to stay informed and focused to avoid getting caught up in the hype and making impulse purchases." The shopper emphasized the importance of doing research and creating a shopping list before the event, as well as setting a budget and sticking to it. "It's easy to get caught up in the excitement of Black Friday, but it's crucial to remember that not every deal is a good deal," they said. "Consumers need to be savvy and make informed purchasing decisions to get the most value out of their money." The shopper also noted that the rise of online shopping has changed the way people shop during Black Friday, with many retailers offering exclusive deals and discounts to online customers. "While online shopping has made it easier for customers to participate in Black Friday, it's also created a new set of challenges, such as navigating complex websites and competing with other shoppers for limited quantities," they said. In addition to the shopper's advice, experts say that the growth of Black Friday has also had significant implications for society, including increased traffic, congestion, and stress on retailers and their employees. "Black Friday has become a cultural phenomenon, with many people viewing it as a major shopping event," said a retail analyst. "However, it's essential to remember that the true cost of Black Friday goes beyond the prices of the items being sold." As Black Friday approaches, consumers are advised to stay informed, set a budget, and make informed purchasing decisions to get the most value out of their money. With the rise of online shopping and the growth of the sales event, it's more important than ever for customers to be savvy and focused to navigate the chaos of Black Friday. In the coming weeks, retailers will continue to offer exclusive deals and discounts to online customers, and consumers are advised to stay tuned for the latest developments. As the shopper noted, "Black Friday is a marathon, not a sprint. It's essential to stay focused and informed to get the most value out of your shopping experience."