it's kinda a {big deal}

The Lunchbox Buddies purchased a City Saver in hopes of scoring sweet deals at old standbys and finding new favorite places.  We were pleased to see coupons for routine stops like Regal Cinemas and Sweet CeCe's, as well as for plenty of new restaurants and entertainment activities (we're talking family fun centers...hot air balloon rides...).  Prior to making your coupon book investment, consider not only the variety and quality of deals ($5 off coupon versus buy one get one free), but also location of participating businesses.

Our inaugural dinner was at Bria Bistro on Highway 100 in Bellevue.  Great food and great service.  Shout out to Dave, Sarah's husband, who waited on us.  We will definitely be back, although Allison did comment that she enjoyed her dish so much that it will be difficult to try something new on the return trip.  

As we've put a few other stops under our belt, we wanted to offer some lessons learned.

-You paid upfront for the coupons, so be intentional about using.  A great way to do this is to keep them handy, whether in your desk at work, in your car...anywhere you will see them.  

-To decrease feeling overwhelmed by the quantity of coupons, go ahead and pull the handful for places you already frequent and then separate out another stack of places you'd like to try.  Set aside ones to use for out of town company and give away any to friends.

For Meals

-Share your coupon with your server at the beginning of the meal and clarify any fine print limitations

-Don't be afraid to ask for food suggestions, you'll be surprised by the honest guidance

-Be sure to tip based off the pre-discount total

For Activities

-Schedule an appointment, if none accepted, call to find out peak days/times to avoid

-Bring cash for tip

Happy saving, and remember, the best part of getting a deal is sharing it with a friend*