It’s almost time for our reader’s favorite fashion bargain event ~ the Ladies Designer Brand Warehouse Sale featuring Sharon Young’s latest winter resort collection. 

This direct-from-the-designer sale actually takes place inside the clothing manufacturer’s warehouse (February 1-3) and features thousands of fashion pieces all at deep discount prices. 

This huge sale only opens its doors four times a year, and everything is marked down 50% to 75% OFF retail.  They have sizes to fit just about anyone ~ from petite to women’s sizes and everything in between. Much of my wardrobe comes from this sale, and I can’t begin tell you how many people ask me where I shop ~ ladies, this is the place.

Stay tuned! We’ll pop over to the sale in a few days to give you a sneak preview and post some “Insiders Scoop” pics and info so that you’ll know what is in store before you go.

In the mean time, save the date ~ February 1-3, 2018 (Thursday to Saturday). 

Details, details
When: February 1-3, 2018 ~ Thursday & Friday, 8:00AM to 7:00PM and Saturday, 8:00AM to 5:00PM
Where: 10367 Brockwood Rd ~ Dallas. You’ll see yellow signs directing you where to go (or just follow all the ladies you will see!).
Important to know before going: There is a large dressing room area provided if you want to try on all your wonderful finds, but typical of women’s fashion warehouse sales, it is ladies only but not private — you likely want to keep this in mind when choosing your undergarments : ). Since this is a women only event, husbands, guy-friends and kiddos under 12, please stay comfortable at home.

Enjoy and Share! :)

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and button down the family finances?
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Thank you to the Ladies Designer Brand Warehouse Sale for sponsoring this post. All opinions stated are entirely my own (as always). Frugal in Fort Worth only recommends brands and businesses we use and trust!

Using less water is not only good for the environment, it is also great for saving money on your water bill! The Fort Worth Water Department, in partnership with the Texas AgriLife Extension Service, is hosting a series of FREE seminars that will teach you how to plan and grow a water-saving garden, easy tips for maintaining a healthy water-wise landscape, helpful info for installing a DIY drip irrigation system, and much more! 

The list of upcoming classes includes:

:: Rainwater Harvesting ~ March 1, 2018
Think big for your home and save big on your water bill! This program covers design, construction, maintenance and benefits of a large rainwater collection system. Participants will learn how to calculate rainwater capture and design an above ground water collection system for a home, ranch or business. Register here. »

:: Top 100 Plants for North Texas ~ April 5, 2018
Are you a “Native Texan” or a transplant? Plants can be native or transplants too! Create a lush and vibrant landscape with our favorite “Top 100” native and adapted plants, ideal for your North Texas landscape. You’ll also learn proper soil preparation, proper planting, how to choose the right plant for the right place, as well as tips to keep your plants beautiful and healthy year-round. Register here. »

:: You Landscape It ~ May 3, 2018
Transform your landscape into a beautiful low maintenance, water efficient landscape. At this seminar, you’ll learn basic design principles, plant placement, and the newest hardscape trends so you can “do it yourself” and save big! You’ll also receive tips on how to use the ULandscapeIT tool on the WaterUniversity.tamu.edu website so that you can become your own landscape designer! Register here. »

:: Drip Irrigation ~ June 7, 2018
Make every drop count — drip irrigation is the most efficient irrigation method for landscape beds, potted plants, vegetable gardens or home foundations. Whether you have an existing sprinkler system or just an outdoor faucet, learn how to install, convert and maintain a drip irrigation system. The flow of information from our experts will make “do it yourself” drip irrigation seem easy! Register here. »

:: Water U Doing?: Water Efficient Sprinklers ~ July 12, 2018
Save water, money and time by giving your sprinkler system a “Spruce Up.” Come learn how minor do-it-yourself repairs and simple irrigation tips can make a major impact on your water waste and your water bill. If you’ve got questions about your controller or how much your lawn and landscape really needs, we’ve got a stream of info to get your plants looking their best! Register here. »

:: Put the ‘Care’ Into Lawn Care ~ August 2, 2018
Did you fight the lawn and the lawn won? Don’t let it! This course will teach you proper maintenance techniques, efficient watering methods, and simplified fertilizer and pesticide application to reduce weed and disease issues. We’ll help you create a lush and healthy lawn that will make your neighbors green with envy! Register here. »

:: Grow Your Own Vegetables ~ September 6, 2018
“Lettuce” talk about vegetables! Whether you’re trying to eat healthier, want to know where your food comes from, or just love the idea of growing delicious vine-ripened vegetables at home, this class in for you. Learn proper soil preparation, garden design and layouts, disease and insect identification, as well as the proper planting times for getting the most production out of your favorite vegetables in the challenging climate of North Texas. Register here. »

:: Texas Trees ~ October 4, 2018
Trees are without a doubt, our most valuable landscape investment! Whether you’re interested in their ornamental value for your property, their contribution to energy and water savings at your home or business, or the many other ecosystem services they provide, this program covers it. Branch out and join us to learn tips on tree selection and proper planting practices, as well as proper watering, pruning, common insect issues and diseases.  Register here. »

:: Composting ~ November 1, 2018
Compost is absolutely one of the best soil amendments money can buy, but you don’t have to buy! Learn how to make high-quality compost at home using materials most folks throw away. This class give you the “dirt” on the most effective composting methods with a focus on practical techniques and tips to get your compost system back to its peak.  Register here. » 

The last few weeks of storms wreaked havoc on much of North Texas, leaving damage and destruction of vehicles, homes, property, and more. To avoid another disaster at the hands of scam artists, be sure to use caution with these useful tips from Fort Worth’s Better Business Bureau (BBB) and the FTC:

Avoid Home Contractor and Repair Scams

1. Check with your insurance company first to determine your home and repair coverage and filing requirements; keep their contact information handy.
2. Be leery of door-to-door workers or telephone solicitors who offer home repairs, inspections, heating/cooling services, or speedy insurance processing.
3. Shop around for contractors. You may need to make temporary repairs, but permanent repairs made by a contractor should be the result of multiple work bids and contractor research.
   • Require written bids that clearly identify the project’s materials, associated costs, labor charges, as well as the timing of work including the beginning and expected completion dates.
   • Be sure that the bids are comparable.
   • Do not pay in advance for any work and do not pay in cash.
   • Get references from the contractor’s past customers.
   • Check out the contractor’s history with the BBB and relevant trade association(s). Always research a business with the BBB before you sign any contracts.
4. Require copies of all contractor licenses, permits and liability insurance prior to any work commencing.
5. When work is complete, be sure to get a notarized statement that all sub-contractors have been paid in full to avoid a contractors lien on your property.
6. If you have an HVAC repair, allow heating/cooling units to be cleaned out and dried before determining what, if any repairs are actually needed.

Steer Clear of Vehicle Damage Scams

1. Similar to home repairs, shop around for a quality vehicle repair service. 
   • Require written bids that clearly show the repair parts, associated costs, mechanic labor charges, as well as the timing of work including the beginning and expected completion dates.
   • Do not pay in advance for any work and do not pay in cash.
   • Get references from past customers.
   • Check out auto mechanic’s history with the BBB or business review sites like Yelp.
2. If you are shopping for a used vehicle, look for signs of flood or hail damage like rust, mud, watermarks, discolored upholstery, mismatching carpet or a musty odor.
3. Request a vehicle report based on the VIN to check for past reported auto damage of any kind.

Protect Yourself From Charity & Financial Solicitation Scams
Take the following precautions to make sure your donation benefits the people and organizations you want to help.

1. Ask for detailed information about the charity, including name, address, and telephone number.
2. Get the exact name of the organization and do some research. Searching the name of the organization online — especially with the word “complaint(s)” or “scam”— is one way to learn about its reputation.
3. Call the charity. Find out if the organization is aware of the solicitation and has authorized the use of its name. The organization’s development staff should be able to help you.
4. Find out if the charity is trustworthy by contacting the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance, Charity Navigator, Charity Watch, or GuideStar.
5. Ask if the caller is a paid fundraising company. If so, ask the name of the charity they represent, the percentage of your donation that will go to the charity, how much will go to the actual cause to which you’re donating, and how much will go to the fundraising company.
6. Learn the basic signs of a Charity scam and more ways to protect yourself at the FTC’s helpful online guide.

This huge, direct from the designer warehouse clothing sale only opens its doors to the public 4 times a year, and you’ll find almost everything marked down 50% to 75% OFF retail.  There are sizes to fit just about anyone —  from Petite to Women’s sizes and everything in between.

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:: SECRET SAUCE INSIDERS’ TIP: The sale will feature a special “Buy One Get One FREE” deal on Thursday and Friday (only)! This offer is on top of the already discounted prices, so be sure to ask about this deal to stretch your savings and wardrobe.

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:: Isn’t this Ali Miles sleeveless top with hand-beaded collar gorgeous and perfect for summer? It is one of our favorite bargains, at only $20! It sells in department stores for $79 and is a perfect summer staple since it can be dressed up with straight leg pants or worn casually with your favorite jeans (click on the picture above to see a closeup).

:: We are in love with the rich fabrics and careful attention to quality we found throughout the John Mark and Sharon Young collections —  you’ll see incredible bargains with most of these collections at least 60-70% off retail! These two lines are definitely a “Best Buy” at this sale — we found many of these same styles being sold at full price ($99 and up!), right now at a major department store. 

:: Don’t miss the silky soft fabrics in the new weekend leisure and  athletic lines from brands Sport Haley and Bette & Court — ideal for a day on the tennis court or just a walk around the neighborhood. We found rows of tops, shorts, pants, and more made with great looking performance fabrics ~ some even incorporate a UPF 30 sunblock protection.

   

   

In a nutshell, we found:

• Bargains and bargains — Over 18,000 pieces of gorgeous ladies designer clothing & accessories, deeply discounted off retail!  There is a huge selection that covers a wide variety of styles from trendy to traditional and from casual to dressy.  These are gorgeous top quality collections carried in high-end department stores and fashion boutiques ~ you’ll find them at this designer warehouse sale at a big discount.
• Ladies, Petite and Plus Sizes ~ something for everyone!  Sizes range from Ladies & Petites sizes 2-18 and a stylish selection of Women’s Plus 0X-3X.

Shop to Support a Great Cause: Proceeds From The May Sale Benefit a Special Boy’s Upcoming Liver Transplant!

If you have ever shopped the Ladies Designer Brand Warehouse Sale,  you have most likely met Kathy Rayford, the lovely and kind treasure who often runs the sale’s cash register area. What you may not know is that Kathy’s 14-year old grandson Kyle is on a waiting list for a liver transplant ~ regretfully, he has been diagnosed with an incurable liver disease called Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC) which has many progressive complications including liver failure (learn more about PSC here).  

We are so happy to let you know that a portion of the May sales will go towards helping Kyle’s family defray the thousands of dollars in upcoming medical bills for his transplant procedure! Thank you so much for blessing their family and for your care and support.

 

Details, details
When: May 4-6, 2017 ~ Thursday & Friday, 8:00AM to 7:00PM and Saturday, 8:00AM to 5:00PM
Where: 10367 Brockwood Rd ~ Dallas. You’ll see yellow signs directing you where to go (or just follow all the ladies you will see!).
Important to know before going: There is a large dressing room area provided if you want to try on all your wonderful finds, but typical of women’s fashion warehouse sales, it is ladies only but not private — you likely want to keep this in mind when choosing your undergarments : ). Since this is a women only event, husbands, guy-friends and kiddos under 12, please stay comfortable at home.

Enjoy and Share! :)

 

 

Want to keep up with fresh ways to save money
and button down the family finances?
Subscribe to Frugal in Fort Worth now. It’s FREE

 

Thank you to the Ladies Designer Brand Warehouse Sale for sponsoring this post.  All opinions stated are entirely my own (as always).  Frugal in Fort Worth only recommends brands and businesses we use and trust!

Be sure to save the date!  Please pass this along to anyone you know who might be in the market for new appliances, ceiling fans, air conditioners, or other Energy Star qualifying products (this can save them a bundle!)…even incandescent and fluorescent light bulbs receive tax-free status!

Saturday, May 27 to Monday, May 29, Texas shoppers receive a break from paying sales tax on purchases of many energy-efficient products like fluorescent light bulbs, ceiling fans, and energy-star home appliances like refrigerators, washers, and more — even energy-star rated college-dorm / compact-sized refrigerators qualify! This is an excellent way to get extra savings on qualifying items, plus save on future energy costs too.

The energy-star products qualifying in 2017’s tax-free weekend include:

• Refrigerators priced at $2,000 or less
• Ceiling fans
• Incandescent and fluorescent light bulbs
• Clothes washers
• Dishwashers
• Dehumidifiers
• Air conditioners priced at $6,000 or less
• Delivery, installation, shipping, and handling for any of these items are also excluded from tax!

The 2017 sales tax holiday begins on Saturday, May 27, and ends on Monday, May 29 (Memorial Day Weekend).

Qualifying products will need to display the ENERGY STAR logo which will appear on the appliance, the packaging, or the Energy Guide label. The discount also applies to delivery and installation fees and there is not a limit to the number of qualifying items one can purchase during this sales tax holiday.

:: To find out more, go to the Texas comptroller’s site, here.

Greetings Frugal in Fort Worth friends! We have been on a bit of hiatus, and wanted to let you know we will be back in full gear next month (we sure have missed talking with you!). Because we’ve had many readers checking in on the next dates for the Sharon Young and Ladies Designer Brand Warehouse sale, we wanted to make a quick “pop-in” to let you know that it’s almost here!

Be sure and save the date as it starts next week!  A readers’ favorite fashion and warehouse clothing sale, The Ladies Designer Brand Warehouse Spring Sale runs for 3 days, and sale doors will be open Thursday, May 4 to Saturday, May 6 only!

Here’s a little sample of what’s in store —

The direct from the designer, Sharon Young & Ladies Designer Brand Warehouse clothing sale only opens their doors to the public four times a year, and the next sale runs Thursday to Saturday, May 4-6. This rare sale is in a large warehouse venue (behind Sharon Young’s design headquarters in Dallas), and will be huge with over 18,000 designer pieces!

You’ll find everything is marked down 50% to 75% OFF retail, as well as sizes to fit just about anyone ~ from petite to women’s sizes and everything in between. The sale features deep discounts on collections from Sharon Young, John Mark, Tru Luxe, Multiples, A La Carte, and more! You’ll even be able to shop their two new weekend and sportswear/performance lines — Bette & Court and Sport Haley. All prices start at $20 (with nothing over $60!).

You don’t want to miss this fantastic sale, including a surprise Buy One Get One Free offer on Thursday & Friday (May 4 & 5)!

Amazon is running a pass-along worthy deal — for a limited time, get big savings OFF top-rated Nautica Baby Girl and Boy Onesie Bodysuits — $11.19 for a pack of 5 cute onesie designs (making these less than $2.50 per outfit)! These are great to have on hand in your gift closet for last-minute baby showers or to brighten the day of a tired mommy.

Here are the links to the sale (Psssst! Be sure and read our Secret Sauce Savings Tips at the end of this post):

:: $11.19 ~ 5 Pack Nautica Baby Girls’ Bodysuits

:: $11.19 ~ 5 Pack Nautica Baby Boys Bodysuits

Secret Sauce Savings Tips: These 5-pack onesie sets come in a nice variety of design options, however not all sets are on sale — be sure to click on the size you want and then on the various styles to find the $11.19 sale designs.  Also, we like to remind our readers that Amazon prices can change at any time, so you might not want to wait when you find a great deal you intend to buy. 

:: Pop over here to find more great sale items at the Nautica 50% OFF (and more) children’s clothing event.

Enjoy and Share! :)

Want to keep up with fresh ways to save money
and button down the family finances?
Subscribe to Frugal in Fort Worth now. It’s FREE

The Fort Worth Water Department, in partnership with Texas AgriLife Extension Service, is hosting a series of FREE water smart landscape and gardening seminars throughout 2017. These classes are offered monthly at the Fort Worth Botanic Garden and will equip you to make educated decisions in your landscape as well as make efficient use of the latest watering and irrigation technologies.

:: Water Efficient Landscape Design ~ March 2, 2017
Are you on a budget but your landscape needs a facelift? Transform your landscape into a water efficient landscape. You’ll learn basic design principles, plant placement, and hardscape so you can do it yourself!  Register here. »

:: Native and Adaptive Plants for North Texas ~ April 6, 2017
Are you a “Native Texan” or a transplant? Plants are native or transplants too!This program covers a large selection of minimal water use plants that are native and adaptive — ideal for a sustainable landscape or garden. You will learn proper soil preparation, planting and native and adaptive plant selection.  Register here. »

:: Water Efficient Landscape Plants and Maintenance ~ May 4, 2017
Learn to install and maintain a water efficient landscape. Topics include proper soil preparation, plant and hardscape installation, and maintenance.  Register here. »

:: On the Wild Side: Gardening for Wildlife ~ June 1, 2017
In this seminar, you’ll learn about native and adaptive plants that are not only water efficient additions to your landscape, but also beautiful landscape accents that attract beneficial wildlife.  Register here. »

:: Drip Irrigation DIY ~ July 6, 2017
Learn how to water more efficiently with every drop by converting your spray heads and sprinkler system to drip. This hands-on class will teach you how to install drip irrigation tubing from your faucet or convert an existing zone to drip. Drip irrigation for foundation watering will also be covered. Register here. »

:: Water Efficient Irrigation ~ August 3, 2017
In this class you’ll learn how to most efficiently operate your sprinkler system and its components to take advantage of water efficiency best practices.  You’ll also learn how to maintain your home’s automatic sprinkler systems and make basic repairs.   Register here. »

:: Lawn Care Maintenance ~ September 7, 2017
Proper lawn care is a key component to a healthy lawn. This program covers basic lawn maintenance best practices as well as selecting the right turf grass to improve the health and longevity of your landscape. This class will teach you how to maintain your landscape using less water, fertilizers and pesticides, too. Register here. »

:: Composting ~ October 5, 2017
This program teaches the benefits of different types and methods of composting.  Register here. »

:: The Edible Landscape ~ November 2, 2017
Why water and mow what you can’t eat? Utilizing areas in your landscape to grow edibles is a way to add food on your table and reduce your grocery bill. This program teaches you how to incorporate edible plants into your home garden and landscape. You will learn how herbs, fruits and vegetables can add to the colors and textures of your permanent landscape combining both aesthetics’ and functionality.  Register here. »

All seminars will take place at:

Fort Worth Botanic Garden
3220 Botanic Garden Blvd. ~ Inside the Iris Room

Do note, that while seminars are FREE, they do require pre-registration as there are limited seats — given on a first come, first serve basis.

Woohoo! It’s almost time for our readers’ favorite fashion warehouse sale! The Ladies Designer Brand Warehouse Sale will open its doors to the public this week — Thursday to Saturday (February 2-4) with lots of designer clothing deals!    Here’s a little sample of what’s in store —

The direct from the designer Sharon Young & Ladies Designer Brand Warehouse clothing sale only opens their doors to the public four times a year, and the next sale runs this Thursday to Saturday, February 2-4, 2017. The sale will be huge (over 18,000 pieces!), and everything is marked down 50% to 75% OFF retail.  You’ll find sizes to fit just about anyone ~ from petite to women’s sizes and everything in between.

The sale features deep discounts on collections from Sharon Young, John Mark, Tru Luxe, Multiples, A La Carte, and more! You’ll even find two new weekend and sportswear/performance lines — Bette & Court and Sport Haley. Prices start at $20 (with nothing over $60!).

In a nutshell, you’ll find:

• Gorgeous high-end boutique and department store brand ladies designer clothing & accessories — 50% to 75% OFF retail.  There is a huge selection that covers a wide variety of styles from trendy to traditional and from super casual to night-on-the town dressy.  These are top quality collections carried in high-end department stores and fashion boutiques ~ you’ll find them at this designer warehouse sale at a big discount!
• Ladies, Petite and Plus Sizes ~ something for everyone!  Sizes range from Ladies & Petites sizes 2-18 and a stylish selection of Women’s Plus 0X-3X.

Details, details
When: February 2-4, 2017 ~ Thursday & Friday, 8:00AM to 7:00PM and Saturday, 8:00AM to 5:00PM
Where: 10367 Brockwood Rd ~ Dallas. There is free parking, and you’ll see signs directing you where to go (or just follow all the ladies you will see!).
Do note: All Credit Cards are accepted, along with cash or check, but no credit card gift cards are accepted. Also, there is a large dressing room provided for trying on all your finds, but typical of women’s fashion warehouse sales, it is ladies only and not private. Since this is a women only event, husbands, guy-friends and kiddos under 12, please stay comfortable at home. 

Enjoy and Share! :)

Want to keep up with fresh ways to save money
and button down the family finances?
Subscribe to Frugal in Fort Worth now. It’s FREE

Thank you to the Ladies Designer Brand Warehouse Sale for sponsoring this post.  All opinions stated are entirely my own (as always).  Frugal in Fort Worth only recommends brands and businesses we use and trust!