If you’re a money saver, you know about all the good deals this time of year.

During the end and beginning of the year, most stores have their semi-annual sales. Most people stock up on products during these times of the year. Affordable Christmas gifts are on everyone’s lists. During the middle of the year is when students and parents are doing their back-to-school clothes shopping.

Unfortunately, not all store have these semi-annual deals but the stores that do make it worth the wait. Stores like Bath & Body Works, Charming Charlies and Yankee Candle promote their sales through advertisements, emails, and posters throughout malls. Other stores can have buy one, get one free deals or buy one, get one 50 percent off deals throughout their stores.

“I really like online sales,” senior Emily McPherron said. “Urban Outfitters has a really good end of the year sale. I also shop online at Forever 21 and they have good deals this time of year.”

One thing most people can agree on is the hundreds of promotional email they receive from stores. But those emails are definitely persuasive for most people. The emails will normally contain the new items being sold, any deals or sales at that time or special occasion events happening within the company.

“I sign up for emails on the stores websites,” senior Sabrina Martinez said. “I get sent a code or coupon I can use on my first purchase, but also I get emails about when stores have the best deals.”

Shopping discounted items also has its benefits. Shopping retail stores like Goodwill can have some of the best deals year round. Other retail stores around the St. Charles area include Hut 8, Plato’s Closet, and Savors. Some go shopping at retail stores for the vintage looks you can find, others go shopping for the unique articles you can wear on spirit days.

“I love Goodwill. I have found so many name brand clothes and I pay such a cheap price for them,” senior Savana Wiegand said.

Finding good deals can be everyone’s cup of tea. Saving money is an objective of every shopping trip whether it happens or not. Shopping during the beginning and middle of the year is the best time to plan your shopping spree.