July 28, 2020

Why I Won't Post About the Nordstrom Sale

my thoughts on why pushing the Nordstrom sale is not my thing...

Let's Talk About The Nordstrom Sale

Or, shall I say… Let’s talk about why we are not talking about the Nordstrom sale.

In the past, each year, as the annual Nordstrom sale would roll around, I would be greatly conflicted. Should I post about it? Or shouldn’t I post about it?

As I’m sure you all can attest, EVERY. SINGLE. BLOGGER covers the Nordstrom sale. They tell you when to shop, what to shop, how to shop, and so on and so forth.

Well, for the second year in a row, I have complete clarity on how I’m posting about the Nordstrom sale.

The short answer? I’m not covering the Nordstrom sale.

The longer answer?

Well, keep reading for five reasons why I am not posting about the Nordstrom sale… 😉

[ In full disclosure, yes I did affiliate link to the Nordstrom site above. Yes, I see the irony. Don’t click if you don’t want to do so. Ha. ]

5 Reasons Why You Will NOT See Nordstrom Sale Posts from Me

1 – I like to be different

I like to offer you original content, different from what you see everywhere else. Plain and simple. I’m not one to follow the crowd — in life in general or on the blog specifically.

Why would I want to do the same thing everyone else is doing?

Granted, this costs me money. I miss out on a lot of “easy” affiliate money because I refuse to post items to shop simply because they have mass appeal.

But, on the other hand, hopefully it gains me longterm trust and loyalty from you. You know when I post about something it’s authentic and something I truly believe in or like.

2 – I’m not sure you need it

I get it… The Nordstrom sale is a big deal; new merchandise for the upcoming season is marked down. And there are a ton of items which are part of the sale, including some good seasonal staples.

I’ve seen blog posts titled, “How to Shop the Nordstrom Sale” and so on and so forth. But I’m not sure that you – my smart, intelligent readers – need me to help you shop a sale. Do you?!

And if you do need or want help shopping the sale, well, that leads me to reason number three…

3 – There are people who do it better than I would

How’s that for honesty? If you want to know everything about the Nordstrom sale, there are plenty of people who cover it. Heck – practically every style blogger covers the sale.

There are even people who do an outstanding job of providing standout content related to the big sale. So, if you’re wondering what to purchase from the Nordstrom sale, I’d suggest turning to another trusted source.

Or, if you really want my thoughts, feel free to direct message or email me.

4 – I’m not passionate about promoting sales

Sure, I love a good sale. Who doesn’t?

But I am not passionate about sales or even shopping for that manner. Again, there are plenty of  “shopping bloggers”, as I refer to them, who are in fact passionate about sharing sale details.

What am I passionate about? I enjoy the creative aspect of my job better than I like the sales aspect of what I do. I love crafting creative colorful content for my community! And I love empowering you all to live, think, and dress with more color. That is, I enjoy helping us all live our best lives. And along the lines of living our best lives, I’m not sure excessive consumerism is part of that.

5 – Encouraging excess consumerism isn’t necessarily my thing

Lastly, let me be frank: the level of consumption I observe by some during this sale saddens me. Guys – we do not need that much stuff! It is not going to fulfill you or make you happy.

Trust me on this! After having my house flood a year ago, losing belongings and my home, and going through other trials, I can confidently say that we do not need much.

Especially during these uncertain times, we need to be very conscious of how we are spending our money. You certainly don’t need added financial stress. And you definitely don’t need to go into financial debt to acquire things!

So, think twice before you click “add to cart”. And be grateful for what you have.

The Big Downside of Not Covering the Nordstrom Sale?

In life, decisions always have consequences, right?  Those consequences can be both good and bad. It’s the same thing here. Choosing not to cover the sale has repercussions.

So, what’s the biggest downside to me not covering the Nordstrom sale? That’s easy. As I alluded to previously…

It’s a huge missed revenue opportunity

But that’s okay! I am fully okay with sacrificing the opportunity for “easy” money in order to stay true to myself and my brand.

Now, hopefully, I can count on you as my wonderfully loyal community to support my endeavors here in other ways… regularly reading the blog, clicking on links, liking and commenting on my Instagram photos, interacting with my Instagram stories, and exercising your purchasing power with companies who sponsor content here.

And the upside is immeasurable when it comes to staying true to myself. That, in the long run, is priceless.

In Closing

I want to be clear… this post is not intended to bash anyone or speak negatively about bloggers who do choose to promote the Nordstrom sale. I’m simply sharing my rationale behind why I am not bombarding you with content related to the Nordstrom sale – and why I am completely content with my personal decision.

Thoughts? I am dying to hear from you! Let me know.

44 comments

  1. Annaliese says:

    Love this so much Carrie! I do shop the sale each year so I do cover it, but I only use it to buy essentials that I really need for the upcoming season, not tons and tons of merchandise! So I only do a couple blog posts about it. I’m not a fan of those that overpromote! Love your perspective though!

    xoxo A
    http://www.southernbelleintraining.com

    1. Thanks so much, Annaliese! I appreciate your feedback and input.

      Yeah, I might do the same… restock on some wardrobe essentials.

      Like so much else in life, everything in moderation. 🙂

  2. Erin says:

    That’s why you’re my fave! I actually don’t follow too many fashion bloggers. You’re financially smart and have so much more to offer! Keeping it real is refreshing!

    1. Oh Erin – you made my day! Thank you. There is so much more to life!!!

      Don’t get me wrong… I may end up picking up a few basics to refresh my wardrobe.

      But I just don’t feel right jumping on the bandwagon of telling you ALL the things you NEED.

  3. Jill says:

    Agree – sometimes it “pays” to be different

    1. Well put, Jill! Have a great day.

  4. Aby says:

    I agree with you 💯 %. Stay true to who you are and God will bless you. I always say Chick Fil A is one of the only few fast food chIns that closes on Sunday and guess what they #1 in fast food chain. Don’t follow the crowd. Good for you!!!

    1. Yes, girl! Great example. Thanks for sharing.

  5. Sheri says:

    Thanks for your post and sharing your thoughts about the sale. With respect to your flood, did you lose any of your beautiful designer pie pieces? 😑

    Sheri

    1. Sheri – you’re always so sweet to inquire. The failed valve / burst pipe was right behind my master closet, but oddly enough, most of my clothes are fine.

      Nevertheless, in the process of moving things into storage and then subsequently downsizing, I’ve realized how much I don’t need so much. 🙂

  6. Jess Albins says:

    I so appreciate this. Thank you for advocating for authenticity and transparency in a brand. You consistently emulate the type of “success” I want for my life and the passion I want to feel while working on projects.

    1. Girl – you are an inspiration! I’m so happy for you and all of your recent successes.

      Thank you for chiming in – and particularly for your kind, encouraging words. Love ya!

  7. Becky Jones says:

    THANK YOU times a thousand!
    I get so tired of this sale. I love Nordstrom’s. And I love pretty clothes and shoes. I’m just not sure THAT many people have $ to spend “just because”. And, I am with you “too much stuff, because it was a good deal” is such a trap. When I need, really want, I buy. Big Hugs to you and Sweet Elle. Becky

    1. Thank you, Becky! I’m glad you understand where I’m coming from.

      When one has influence, one has a responsibility to use that influence wisely. And in my case, I feel a fiduciary responsibility to my audience in many ways — one being not to encourage reckless, mindless spending.

  8. Ashley Swann says:

    I fully agree and support your justification(s) for not covering the Nordstrom sale! I’m already exhausted by the hype and it’s not open (for me) yet. This sale used to be so special (for sentimental reasons with my Grandmother) to me, but now is so “in your face, buy ALL the things.” Cheers to staying true to yourself and brand!

    1. LOL – yeah, it’s bad when it’s day one, and we are already exhausted by it. 🙂

  9. Missy says:

    I love your post and appreciate your honesty! Last year I listened to a blogger rave about a blow dryer at the Nordstrom sale And so I bought it as I needed one and she appeared to love it. It was not wonderful at all; heavy, not s lot of power levels, just not great so I returned it. A month later someone asked the same blogger the name of her hair dryer and the blogger said she NEVER uses a hair dryer unless she is at a salon. I unfollowed her. I am tired of people selling to make money and lying in the process. Just my 2 cents. And don’t even get me started on the vinyl diaper bags that don’t last!

    1. Yes, yes, a million times yet!

      There’s too much pushing of things you “NEED” while in reality many bloggers return many of their purchases. But YOU NEED to buy it, so that they make a commission.

      Again, I am not making blanket condemnations against bloggers. But it’s important to be aware that not everything is as it seems.

      Thanks for chiming in, Missy. 🙂

  10. Bravo Carrie! Once again your brutal honesty is so refreshing and welcoming! Quality over quantity is absolutely relatable! I love that your focus is on the quality side of life. Today has had a very redundant feel to It social media speaking of course and seeing the exact same posts over and over. Thank you for bringing the “ I want to be different”! Love your heartfelt and candid message as usual!

    1. Oh Kelsey – thank you so much for that!

      YES – here’s to QUALITY OVER QUANTITY. That’s a great adage by which to live.

  11. Nathalie says:

    It’s refreshing that you’re sticking to what you believe in. In addition to that, I like that you linked people who covered the sale. Very cool of you.

    I’ve covered the sale in the past but you know me. I love a good sale and I love shopping. Mind you I’m always selling and donating what I no longer need in my life. I buy good stuff and I know someone else will love it more once I’m done with it.

    1. Nathalie – you are awesome. A great example of always being true to yourself. You stay in your lane beautifully!

  12. Kim Gordon says:

    Dancing to the beat of a different drum…It’s always good. 😉 Speaking of consumerism, though, I find myself shopping vintage and slightly used lately. Do you do this, too? If so, I’d love to see a blog on this…

    1. I know you understand dancing to the beat of a different drum!

      Oh, that’s interesting! I actually haven’t gone that route. But I follow a couple gals who do this so well! Maybe we can consult with some experts on a blog post. Great idea!

  13. Margaret Dodd says:

    I also flooded (in Harvey) and the experience of losing my house and everything I own gave me a similar perspective. I actually haven’t really replaced much of anything yet. I’ve just been buying things I need here and there and even though I might WANT to buy things I probably actually do kind of need, I think I’ll preserve my sanity and money and sit this one out.

    1. YES!!! Sometimes simple is best. Hugs to you.

  14. Holly-Dae says:

    First of all you’re awesome and it’s refreshing to know you’ll always chose authenticity over relevancy. You’re a true colorful inspiration and women of integrity. I’ll always be a fan 🌈❣️

    1. Oh Holly – you are too kind. You yourself are an inspiration!

      Coincidentally, I was looking back at photos this week and stumbled upon the pics of Elle’s sip and see. You really nailed it with that backdrop! We need to work together again. 😀

  15. Well noted Carrie. Nordstrom Sale – unchecked.

  16. Nicole says:

    I love your authenticity and your heart. I’m glad you choose to stick with your authentic self and inspire me with creative, colorful content

    1. Thank you, thank you, thank you, Nicole.

  17. Tegan D says:

    Thank you for this breath of fresh air, as you always do. I hadn’t looked cause I don’t need anything. But “everyone” is posting and thought maybe I’ll see if there’s any amazing deals. So thank you for the reminder that I’m not shopping it cause I don’t need anything. 🎉💖 ~Teg

    1. Hey – thanks, friend! We don’t need as much as we sometimes think we need. And I just can’t buy into this cultural pressure of telling others that they need this or that to be complete or cool or content or whatever.

      I’d much rather pay full price for something I really need and want and love than a bargain price for something I don’t need or want or love.

  18. Courtney W says:

    Carrie I love this. I am now conflicted because I asked if people wanted to hear my suggestions and the overwhelmingly said yes so I decided to share just a few items. I totally understand why not covering it is easier. Last year I flipped through the catalog and talked about what I saw. I didn’t share links or anything. Love your perspective in this space!

    1. Hey Courtney – you know I always appreciate and value your perspective and insights. Thanks for your words here. I am certainly not judging anyone — this approach just feels right and true to me.

  19. Elizabeth says:

    Ms Carrie,
    One of the many reasons you excel is that you are not a puppet to commercialism. Your trails in the past have blossomed into gifts.
    You are sharing so many life lessons with your precious Elle.
    What we really desire is generally standing in front of us. If you have ever had to evacuate for fire season or hurricanes…unless you have done the dance before there is not a whole lot of “stuff” you can grab. Less stuff~more life.
    Cheers,
    Elizabeth

    1. Such wise words, Elizabeth! Thank you for sharing that, and thank you for your kind words.

  20. Aracely says:

    I love how genuine you are and your outlook on what’s important!

    1. Thank you so much for those encouraging words, A!

  21. Andrea Villafranca says:

    Thank you! I am overwhelmed by the N sale coverage and mostly just sad that it’s basically all the same products being pushed by the bloggers. I’ve seen the same sweaters, leggings, shoes recommended by so many bloggers. I guess this fall we’ll all be clones in the same camel sweaters and faux leather leggings. I’ve never needed anyone to tell me how to shop. I like following people and getting style inspiration while they’re living their lives not standing in front of a mirror or getting ridiculously dressed for a trip to CFA. Rant over. I appreciate your content.

    1. Thanks for stopping by and sharing your thoughts.

      It’s important to remember that we don’t need as much as we think we need.

  22. Alissa says:

    Love this so much!! I love your honesty. I do not follow that many fashion bloggers because it is just not my thing, but I get so tired of seeing posts about the Nordstrom sale from the ones that I do follow. You are absolutely right about us not need that much stuff, especially right now! And the spending aspect-sooooooo true! I’m with you in that!!

    1. Thanks for saying that, Alissa! I appreciate the support.

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