A Good Brew

photo by Charlotte Madsen

Heather Phillips, a working mother with twin toddlers and a 10-year-old step son, said although she is more frugal than she once was, the one thing she is willing to splurge on is good coffee. It is not unusual for her coworkers to see her walk in with a Starbucks or Beans & Brews cup in hand.

“I love coffee and I will buy the better brands over the store brands because the quality and taste is very different.” When Phillips makes coffee at home she prefers the higher end specialty brands over just plain old Folgers. Coffee is one thing she will never go generic on.

She has given up name brands of many products for the less expensive store brands. “I pay a lot more attention to where I spend my money and what extras I can do without.” She has started buying in bulk when possible, especially when it comes to essential items like diapers.

Phillips said her spending on cosmetics has stayed the same, if not slightly increased. She buys less expensive shampoo, lotion and razors, but makeup is another thing she will never go generic with. Although she only buys the drug store brands like Covergirl and L’Oreal, she has not changed which items or brands she purchases.