Black Friday Guide New York

Why does the biggest shopping day of the year always feel like the laziest day of the year? Perhaps because it’s after a day of feasting, entertaining or just being on good behavior to impress the in-laws. Perhaps because the city is packed with tourists, avid shoppers who act as if stores don’t exist other 364 days a year. It can be fun to participate in the official kick-off of the holiday season, but Black Friday can be oh so overwhelming.

If you do anything this Friday, November 28th, we encourage you to relax (and maybe hit up a few online sales).

Here’s our official Black Friday Shut-in Guide:

Sleep in. Seriously. This is one of the few days of the year you’re literally not missing anything. Enjoy it. Have coffee in bed!

Start thinking about holiday decorations. You don’t have to decorate, you barely have to life a finger. But envision how you want your home to look when its all decked out, pin some necessities on Pinterest, and maybe order a few more lights for some extra sparkle this year.

Make a nice pot of soup. If you have turkey leftovers, boil the bones and skin with veggies and strain for a nice, hearty stock that will taste great on cold days. Freeze in ice cube trays to have on hand when you’re craving a hot bowl.

Get your social calendar in order. The next month is packed with parties and social events. Organize invites, RSVP, plan hostess gifts and even thank you notes in advance. You’ll thank yourself later.

If you must leave the house…

Book a massage. You deserve one. Plus, you can pick up some spa gift certificates or products for a few people on your list. See? Shopping and relaxing all in one.

See a matinee. Sure, it’s prime tourist season, but are visitors really going to waste prime shopping hours sitting in a theater? Broadway shows will be dark until 8pm but look for an off-beat play or even just treat yourself to a movie for a nice holiday weekend wind-down.

And if you absolutely must shop…

Bloomingdale’s is offering free shipping and returns online through December, Kings of Cole is offering 30% off with code  BLACKFRI, and Sandro will be 10% off. Or wait until Cyber Monday! December 1st’s online discounts include 20% off Nanette Lepore with code CYBER14.