HABLA

Mis Amigos Languages Holiday Open House

What: Learn about children's languages classes, plus crafts and snacks.

Why: The ever-discerning I Am The Maven brings some of her favorite businesses (Misha's Cupcakes, Betty Bu Party Rental) along to join the fun.

When: Sat., 4-6pm [December 3, 2011]

Where: 1390 S. Dixie Hwy, Ste 1108, Coral Gables (305-418-0353). Free!

Whitney Zimet, aka The Maven, decided to cash in on the increasing demand for savings in 2008 when she started her website IAmTheMaven.com. The Coral Gables mother of two said she began the discount shopping website as business owners began recognizing their value in "this new era of austerity." Businesses pay a fee to be featured in the coupon booklets and websites, which give them advertising exposure, while consumers receive a percentage off their purchases....

Zimet describes herself as "hyperlocal," catering only to businesses in south Miami-Dade targeting parents and children. Her revenue is up 12.4 percent, year-over-year. Before she takes them on as clients, Zimet says businesses must meet her standards for selection, service, a fun factor, eco-friendliness and- her most important standard - clean bathrooms. Coupons are delivered in her trademark "I Am The Maven" bags at 35 schools, with about 50,000 bags distributed so far.... Zimet is considering franchising her concept. "I have been exploring it as a franchise, which opens up a whole other can of misery, not to mention financial exposure," Zimet said. Still, she said she has had interest from several people.

"Coupon sites have to find a way to distinguish themselves and the businesses they work with," Zimet said. "We want to work with their business and not drain them of their lifeblood."...

... And shoppers want it all... A 2011 survey conducted by BIGresearch showed families with children in grades K-12 expect to spend an average of $603.63 on apparel, school supplies and electronics, a tad less than last year’s $606.40.

Whitney Zimet, a Coral Gables mom of two and founder of I Am The Maven, a discount shopping website, said she will spend about $500 for school uniforms and supplies.

“Tax-free weekend is a good opportunity to take advantage not only of tax savings, but of using coupons on items to combine the savings,” she said.

To stretch savings, Zimet buys gently-used school uniforms from consignment shops and opts for cartoon-free merchandise, which lasts longer, she says.

Zimet also bunches her shopping tasks for all-around savings.

“You can burn a tank of gas buying an eraser here this week and a marker there next week,” she said. “It’s all about bundling your shopping, which can save you parking, gas, time and aggravation.”...