While it seems to me that more people are using coupons when they shop, I know a lot of people are still turned off by the idea. Usually when someone says they don’t use them it’s because they feel like it takes too much time or that they cut the coupons and forget to take them with them to the store.
Josh sent me this post from Unclutterer a while back and I told him I’d do a post on this because I already use this system. I’ve tried several different coupon systems, but overall the “brag book” style works the best for me. Briana over at Bargain Briana has a much more intricate system which might work better for you. The key is to find something that works for you so that you don’t get overwhelmed. If I had more time and more storage space in my house, my system might be totally different.
So here’s what I do. First I get a small photo album. Depending on the amount of coupons you have, you may want something even smaller (or larger), and small stick-on labels.
On the labels I write the categories based on aisles in a supermarket. I used the layout of the store I shop at most often, but do what works best for you. I write a category on each label, such as produce, bread, frozen foods, etc. I stick a label on the front side of each page in the album.
Then I take the coupons I have and organize them according to these categories. While I’m at it I also put them in order by expiration date. I know this sounds like a lot of work, and at first it is. But, once it’s done it makes it very easy to find the coupons you need, and make sure you stay on top of expiration dates. Not to mention that at this size it fits in my purse so I always have them with me!
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Oh that is so neat! I’ve read up on a lot of organizers, but yours is the first ‘brag book’ version I’ve seen. I like it! I think it would be perfect for the woman (or man) who is just getting started couponing