MEMPHIS, Tenn. — While inflation continues to take a toll on our budgets, many are looking for ways to save a few bucks.
LaQuita Jones is an "extreme couponer" from Memphis who is sharing her knowledge with others through Xclusive Clips. Prices are going up at pumps and grocery stores, but Jones said that there are ways to keep spending down.
"Now is the perfect time for a lot people to get into couponing and learn some of the techniques and tricks that actually go into the art,” Jones said.
Jones teaches people how to coupon effectively.
“Effective couponing takes about two hours a week," Jones said. "That’s from beginning to end, finding the deals as well as knowing which stores to actually scout out.”
She began couponing five years ago when her household increased.
“I wanted to find a way to cut back. I started couponing,” Jones said. “Couponing is a hobby for me. Number one, I enjoy teaching it. Number two, I enjoy going out and buying the items.”
Again, there is an art to it.
“I tell everyone to start small. I also recommend finding stores that fit your needs,” Jones said. “You should have two budgets when you’re couponing. You should have your food budget and you should have your non-food budget … Learn what works for your household. Be open to trying new brands.”
Since couponing, Jones has seen a big difference in her grocery bills.
“On average, I think it started about $275 a week," Jones said. "I’m now down to about $110 a week...If you’re not cutting your grocery bill in half, then you’re not doing something correctly.”
For those who become hooked on deals, Jones advises to not go overboard.
“If you know you’re not going to use it, donate to your church or a local nonprofit and be able to give back,” Jones said. “If you’re wasteful, then that doesn’t necessarily serve the purpose.”
The purpose is to spend but spend smart.
Jones has five books out helping people learn how to coupon.
She's hosting an in-person session Saturday, April 23. For more information, click here.