Since I know what I like, I only buy when they're at deep
discounts, and I buy twice what I need.
I get very good deals from BOTLs on this board, and other
boards. I also check several daily sites on a daily basis,
get email specials from retailers I've patronized b4, etc.
Once in a while a BOTL will email/pm a deal that he knows
I'll like. Occasionally, even a catalog will have an xlnt deal.
A few months ago I was able to get Oliva MB3 for 48% off
of a regularly discounted retail price. That had to be close
to wholesale cost, and I bought double quantity. It sold out!
It takes some work and patience, but you can get xlnt deals
on some higher end sticks.
No, I don't smoke a box per week, either. That also makes
this hobby more affordable, and high end sticks easier to
budget.
Chemyst
:-)
[Reply]
I like to do my research on certain items...if there's a great deal online I will usually buy it there. However, I have a club membership with my local B&M...there prices are about the same as online stores. The club discount pretty much takes care of the taxes, and gas doesn't cost me a whole lot from my house to the B&M...so usually I'll buy it there especially since I will be able to take them home the same day and get them for about the same price as most major online retailers. Not to mention, I start to accumulate points for big discounts towards other purchases
:-)
[Reply]
About all I buy online these days are chocolates, and even that came to an end with recent events.
:-) Occasionally if it's difficult to find locally for a reasonable price, I'll buy online or here from a BOTL.
That being alluded to, I spend my dime at the local B&M. The prices aren't anywhere near competitive even with the major discount I get, but I like the place and the owner. And in the end, I always get my money's worth.
[Reply]
Originally Posted by bobarian:
This is a great site with a lot of information. You can get an idea of pricing from most of the major sites and then shop the smaller places like Party Source. But remember, although price is important, so is service. :-)
I've used this pricing list quite a few times, when looking for prices on a particular brand. I gives you a really good idea of online price ranges.
If you have any shops nearby that have events, try to attend an event. At almost every event they have a great deal with at least 20 - 30% off the regular prices. I'm fortunate that we have a number of local shops that have events every month for different brands. I've been able to pick up a lot of great deals, along with super dealer swag: (cutters, t-shirts, hats, ashtrays, humidors, etc.).
:-) YMMV
:-)
[Reply]
