When I first shared the news of our move with my mother in law, her response was "You need to go to @ Home! You will LOVE it!" Initially excited by the mere fact that I would have a new store to peruse while my son was at school, I quickly learned that @ Home is more than a place to waste time. It is a store that answers almost every decorating question you have ever had. Whether you have just moved to a new home, need to update an existing space or simply want holiday decorations, @ Home is the place you need to go!
Lucky for us, @ Home is just a stone's throw away. Located on Route 88 in Brick, this GINORMOUS "superstore" has aisles and aisles of must-have styles at prices so low you won't believe it! Yes, those are their words, not mine, BUT they are not wrong in how they advertise themselves. Upon stepping inside, my breath was taken away by the number of aisles I saw in front of me. There were Christmas trees and picture frames and chairs (Oh my!); honestly EVERYTHING that you could ever want or need.
As I gained control of my breath, I realized that my experience could quickly turn sour if I continued to let myself get overwhelmed. I'd be lying if I said that at that moment I was able to buckle down and thoughtfully make it through all of the aisles since I spent an extra $20 on frilly pencil holders and funny mugs, but I did review my experience when I returned home. In the introspection, I came up with a list of ideas to make your visit to @ Home super, sane and savvy!
1. Use your cart! This DOES NOT mean to load your cart up, rather it is a helpful hint to keep an eye on the map that is glued to the inside of the cart that outlines the layout of the store.
2. Choose a room! DO NOT go to @ Home with the idea that you will be able to dress your entire home in one visit! There is just TOO MUCH to get through that you will be insane by hour #4. While it might seem like poor time management, making multiple trips to the this store will help you stay focused, stay calm and avoid impulse purchases (hopefully).
3. Sign up for their rewards program! While I was lucky enough to visit during my birthday month (Yep! 10% off for that!), I have already received more coupons for future purchases (or visits - See suggestion #2)
4. Opt for curbside pickup! If this article has already sent your stress levels through the roof, take a deep breath! You can shop online for your home needs and pick up your purchases without getting overwhelmed by the abundance of inventory!
5. Stay in season! If your intention is to find holiday decor, stick to one holiday or one season. I can assure you that you will not need an Easter basket until next spring!
Happy shopping!
