The History of Black Friday

November 8th, 2011 by admin

Some people think of Black Friday as the day after Thanksgiving. Many people even consider it the “official” beginning of the holiday season. No matter how you think about Black Friday, one thing is for sure – historically it’s one of the busiest retail shopping days of the year.

What happens on Black Friday?  Most retailers, like your hometown ColorTyme, open in the early morning hours to provide huge discounts on products for people who want to get a head start on their holiday shopping. Stores offer Black Friday specials, door buster deals, and other incentives to draw in shoppers.

Why is it called “Black Friday?”  According to Time Magazine, the term “Black Friday” was originally used to describe the Sept. 24, 1864, stock-market panic set off by plunging gold prices. It was then used by newspapers in Philadelphia the late 1960s as a way to describe the panicked rush of crowds at stores. Justifying the name came later, as many would regard Black Friday as the day retailers go into the black, meaning they show a profit, for the first time in a given year. By the 1990’s, the name stuck and Black Friday became an unofficial retail holiday nationwide.

How to prepare for Black Friday
1. Do Your Research: Look at store flyers or advertisements in your local newspaper the week before Black Friday. Know what time the store opens, what the specials are before you get there, and have an idea of what products you are looking for. All this will save you time and help you get in and out of one store and on to the next. Also, pick out your clothes according to the weather, as you might be standing outside in the early morning hours waiting for the store to open.

2. Get to Bed Early: Gearing up for Black Friday requires you to be well rested. The good news is, getting to sleep shouldn’t be a problem after eating a large meal of turkey and all the trimmings. Plan for at least 6-8 hours of sleep before you need to leave in the morning. For example, if a store you’d like to go to opens at 5 a.m., getting to bed around 9:30 or 10 p.m. would give you enough rest to be energized when it’s time to go shopping.

3. Have Patience: Remember that lines will be long whether it’s outside the store waiting to get in or waiting in the check out lane with your products. Also, keep in mind that there’s a chance you might not get the items you have set out to get due to the crowds who arrived before you and a limited product supply. It’s important to keep the holiday spirit alive and be cheerful while you shop. A good attitude will help make the day better for you and others around you.

Whether shopping on Black Friday is a yearly tradition for you or something you’ve never done before, we encourage you to take advantage of the specials this year. Talk to your local ColorTyme to find out what Black Friday deals they will have going on, and make sure to find out what time they open. We hope you have a fun and successful Black Friday!

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Talking About Tablets

September 22nd, 2011 by admin

Lately there has been a strong push towards tablet computers since Apple’s iPad came on the scene. Now companies like Dell, Samsung, Hewlett-Packard, Lenovo, Vizio and so many others have debuted their own tablets each with innovative and user-friendly features. Are you thinking about renting a tablet to see what all the buzz is about? Here’s some information that will help you understand the latest technology so you can decide if it fits your lifestyle.

First, what exactly is a tablet? Tablets are handheld computer devices that usually range from 5 to 10 inches in screen size. They include features similar to a full-size personal computer including an operating system like Windows or Linux and Internet capability. Tablets have intuitive touch screens that allow users to do many things like view websites, play games, watch movies, listen to music, and read e-books.

When it comes to entertainment on-the-go, tablets have a big advantage. With the increasing number of free wifi hotspots and a wireless connection at home, tablets can give you instant access to online games, movies, music, books, photos, e-mail and your favorite websites. And, unlike a smartphone, you won’t have to pay an extra fee added to your phone bill each month in order to get Internet.

Also, carrying around a tablet means having constant access to your personal schedule, to-do list, calendar of events, shopping list, and other organizational tools. It’s even the perfect size for traveling – just stash in a purse, briefcase or any piece of luggage. On a plane, the tablet is a great device to read e-mails, create business presentations, set-up meetings, and catch up on headlines before you land. Or, if you are traveling with kids, you can use a tablet to keep them busy with games, movies and music.

But, beware of a couple of things: Tablets do not come with keyboards and have limited software support compared to full-size computers. So, if you have trouble viewing a smaller screen or do not like working on a touch screen, then a tablet might not be for you.

These are only a few of the advantages and disadvantages to tablets. To find out more, visit your local ColorTyme and talk to a store associate. They will be able to help you figure out if a tablet is right for you, or if there are other computers and laptops at the store that might better fit your lifestyle.

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Wasilla ColorTyme helps create home for family in need Local rent-to-own store donates more than $2,800 in home furnishings for the Jim White House Project

September 13th, 2011 by admin

WASILLA, AK – Sept. 13, 2011 – After learning that local resident Jim White and his family of four were living in a trailer on the verge of collapse, a community-wide effort began to improve their living conditions through the Jim White House Project. Thanks to the help of ColorTyme, Mat-Su Home Builders Association, United Protestant Church, along with the support of numerous other local businesses and individuals, the White family recently moved into a new home just in time for winter.

Custom built with wider-than-standard doorways, the new home is adapted to accommodate special needs for wheelchair-bound Jim White, whose legs were amputated due to peripheral artery disease. ColorTyme furnished the home with an easily accessible washer/dryer unit and a bunk bed for Jim’s sons – a donation totaling $2,842.16. In addition, the ColorTyme truck collected and delivered other donations including mattresses, tables, chairs, frames and a couch.

Karuna McMurtry, Wasilla ColorTyme store manager, is happy to have been a part of the giving effort.

“Every family deserves a safe and secure place to live, and it was encouraging to see our community come together to provide that,” she said. “I’m glad we were able to fulfill a dream for the White family and give them the items they need for their new home. It feels like we really made a difference.”

Mark Childers, owner of the ColorTyme franchise, said the project was an opportunity to extend his store’s values and be part of a greater good.

“The Jim White House Project shows first hand that when a group of people each give a little assistance, the outcome is overwhelming. The outpouring of community support has made it a very positive and memorable experience for everyone,” he said. “At ColorTyme, helping others is essential in our business; it’s what our stores are all about. We are always willing to support people in times of need and help create a better future for them. ”

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Last Month for 10K Giveaway

September 12th, 2011 by admin

Many ColorTyme stores are involved in the $10,000 cash giveaway. 10 lucky people will win $1000 in cash to enjoy! The last day to enter is September 30, 2011. Exciting stuff!

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What We Love About The Kinect

April 5th, 2011 by admin

There’s a new video game product that has gained a lot of popularity since it debuted in 2010:  the Microsoft Kinect.  Compatible with Xbox360, the Kinect allows the user to become the controller with its innovative and hands-free sensor.  One thing’s for sure:  ColorTyme customers love it, and so do we! Here’s why:

- It’s fun for everyone.  Traditionally, video games are thought to be played by kids and teens, but the Kinect is easy to use and entertaining for people of any age.

- There are no buttons!  With just a wave of your hand, you can navigate menus and play games by motion control.

- It uses full-body movements where other gaming tools only use arm or finger movements.  In this way, using the Kinect promotes an active and healthy lifestyle.

- You are the controller.  The system is highly interactive so that all you have to do is step in front of the sensor and it instantly recognizes you.  Every movement is tracked and you don’t need any prior experience or gaming knowledge.

- The sensor is incredible!  It accurately catches jumps, kicks and other motions without slowing down.

- The sensor can track up to six people, including two active players.  That means if you have a larger group, people can swap in and out of “active play” fairly seamlessly, and everyone can have a turn.

- There are so many games available for the Kinect, and more are being developed for release in the near future.  For a complete list of games and other accessories, please click here.

These are just a few things we love about the Microsoft Kinect.  Tell us what you love about it by commenting below!  Don’t forget to come into your hometown ColorTyme so you and your family can enjoy the Kinect gaming system in your own home.  Let the fun begin!

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ColorTyme Sends Customer to the Big Game

January 12th, 2011 by admin
Kathryn Flores - Big Game Giveaway Winner

Kathryn Flores claims her prize at her Hometown ColorTyme in El Campo, TX

It is a dream come true for Kathryn Flores of Wharton, Texas to be announced winner of the ColorTyme Big Tyme Big Game Giveaway. Flores, whose name was drawn randomly from hundreds of entries, wins a trip for two to the biggest football event of the year held on Feb. 6 in Arlington, Texas.

ColorTyme, a rent-to-own franchise featuring popular appliances, furniture and electronics, will provide Flores and her guest with tickets, transportation, hotel accommodation, as well as money for food and entertainment. Planning to take her husband to the game, Flores said she was shocked to learn her name was drawn.

“I could not believe it at first, and then I became very excited because I never won anything like this before. It is still unbelievable!” she exclaimed. “My husband is a true sports fan and can’t wait until game day. We are so excited to go!”

Flores has been a loyal customer at the El Campo, Texas ColorTyme since 1997 and is impressed with the level of service and attention from employees.

“I love buying at ColorTyme, and I recommend it to my family and friends all the time. I like the service I get when I visit the store, and they stand behind their merchandise,” she said. “The best part is that you can get what you need now and pay as you go. If the store doesn’t have what you want, they sure can get it.”
Manager Martha Vasquez is thrilled that the prize was given to a most deserving and long-time friend of the store.

“We had so many entries in El Campo alone that Kathryn’s win was just as big of a surprise to us as it was to her,” she said. “I think this giveaway served as a big ‘thank you’ to customers and a reminder of how much we value them. For Kathryn and her husband, it’ll be a moment they’ll never forget.”

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ColorTyme Gives Thanks During Hispanic Heritage Month

November 8th, 2010 by admin

In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, ColorTyme Franchisee Ray Bird recently took to the airwaves to show his appreciation to the Hispanic community. Bird’s radio announcement combined with further efforts to give back earned ColorTyme the title of “Business of the Week” by the Hispanic publication Providence en Español.

“We feel honored to be in Providence en Español as the featured Business of the Week,” said Bird, owner of three ColorTyme stores in Rhode Island. “For us, the campaign was not about gaining recognition for ColorTyme. It was about giving recognition to the Hispanic community for being a large part of our success.”

According to the article, ColorTyme stores in Rhode Island specialize in renting and selling appliances, furniture and electronics not only to the American demographic but also with a strong focus on the Hispanic community. This dual-market emphasis is extended in the new Woonsocket location through Luis Padilla, sales manager and the voice behind ColorTyme’s Hispanic Heritage Month radio spot.

“All the employees of ColorTyme extend a greeting filled with friendship and gratefulness for the opportunity to serve the Hispanic community for such a long time,” Padilla stated on-air in Spanish. “At ColorTyme, it does not matter what country you have come from to the United States. Know that when you enter into any one of our ColorTyme locations, you are family!”

Also in conjunction with Hispanic Heritage Month, Bird held a free raffle in each of his ColorTyme locations. Announced in the radio spot, five winners won tickets to a local Shakira concert.

“We want the Hispanic community to know how much we respect them and value their business,” Bird said. “We want to serve them in the same way they have served us over the years – with gratitude and support.”

It is clear that Bird and Padilla acknowledge the importance of the Hispanic community, and they vow to continue providing an exceptional customer experience at ColorTyme.

“We are aware of the Latino presence and of its explosive growth during the last decade. Without the Hispanic market completing the picture, we would not have grown as we have,” Padilla said. “At ColorTyme we say, ‘Tu Vecindario, Tu tienda’ meaning ‘Your neighborhood, Your store’.”

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ColorTyme Halloween Celebration a Treat for All

November 8th, 2010 by admin

It was the first time the local rent-to-own franchise celebrated Halloween, but it certainly will not be the last. The ColorTyme of Corsicana, Texas recently drew a crowd inside and outside of the store with family-friendly festivities.

Kicking things off Oct. 30, the store hosted a Halloween party for customers with special deals on merchandise like furniture and TVs, free games and refreshments, and a costume contest for kids. On Oct. 31, ColorTyme helped families celebrate in their neighboring city by teaming up with the Rice Volunteer Fire Department for “Trunk or Treat”.

ColorTyme District Manager Shanna Cadena expects the Halloween events to turn into annual traditions.

“Showing support in our own community and the neighborhoods around us is a priority for our business. The best part is being able to give back and have fun at the same time,” she said. “For Halloween, we wanted to give families a safe and welcoming place to enjoy time together, and that’s just what they got.”

Located at 842 W. 7th Ave., ColorTyme encourages the public to become involved in upcoming seasonal activities at the store. ColorTyme will hold a canned food drive for charity during the month of November and collect donations for Toys for Tots in December.

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2010 Consumer Trends

July 9th, 2010 by admin

It seems like everything you read these days on the state of the economy is different. One report says we’re on the road to recovery, and another report says there’s a long way to go before we see the light at the end of the tunnel. With so many conflicting perspectives out there, it’s hard to know if you should start spending or continue to keep your wallet out of reach.

The good news is that renting is a smart way to get the things you need no matter how the economy is doing. In fact, according to Trendhunter.tv, Rental Culture is #17 in the Top 20 Consumer Trends for 2010.

Renting has really taken off in the recession, but it is far from a new concept. Just look at ColorTyme – we’ve been in business for 30 years! While back then you might have rented a color TV set, today you can rent virtually anything: fine art, clothing, purses, jewelry, homes, and even cars. For name-brand appliances, furniture, electronics and other home furnishings, ColorTyme is the place to be! The rent-to-own option we offer gives you the affordability and flexibility to own the things you need without a credit check.

Let’s take a look at some other consumer trends from this year that made the list:

Listed as #18 is a trend known as “Peacocking”. Basically, consumers are accessorizing with bright clothing and cosmetics to create a vibrant look. This brings attention to their wardrobe without having to pay big bucks for a designer label.

“Prodependancy” comes in at #15. Couples today are more likely to move in together than in past generations because of the credit crunch. In addition, there’s been an increase in products like matching tattoos, co-ed fashion and shared home furnishings.

“Nostalgia Marketing” is #12 on the list. The poor economy has consumers looking to escape financial hardships and seek refuge in the fantasies of their childhood giving vintage toys and clothing a big comeback.

#6 on the list is “Greenpliances”. This refers to appliances that help protect the environment including smaller laundry machines and soap-less dishwashers.

“DIY Décor” is listed as #2. Do It Yourself projects like building furniture from scrap material or creating a work of art from garage items is affordable and more socially acceptable than ever.
And, the #1 consumer trend this year is “Next Besting”. This means that people have become more functional in their purchases and attribute success to practical spending rather than having lavish items. Instead of purchasing top-of-the-line merchandise and pricey brands, people are trying new products in the pursuit of the “next best” alternative.

To see the complete list of trends, go to http://www.trendhunter.com/tv/trends-in-2010-forecast.

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Style Guide for Small Rooms

July 9th, 2010 by admin

Do you have a room in your home that is small and hard to decorate? With just a few simple re-arrangement tricks, you can make any room appear bigger than its actual size and update its look in the process. Here are some tips to help you “grow” your small room:

1. Choose Furniture Carefully
In a smaller room, you don’t want to crowd the place with a lot of furniture. Consider using furniture that can do double duty. For example, you can use a small chest that also acts as a coffee table, or visit your hometown ColorTyme to find a sofa-bed for the room. Also, use pieces that are proportionate and don’t overpower the room. A love seat might work better than a full-size sofa, and you might also keep a couple of small wood chairs or barstools along the wall for when additional seating is needed. Extendable dining tables, folding tables and chairs are also great for clearing up some space when those pieces aren’t needed.

2. Lighting is Everything
Lighting can really open up a tight space. ColorTyme offers floor lamps that are space efficient and provide adequate light for a small room. An arc lamp with multiple arms is a good choice because it provides even more light than a single-bulb lamp, and the arms can be directed to areas of the room to make a “spotlight” effect. Wall sconces also are effective light sources and take up little to no space.

3. Think About Color
For the illusion of a larger room, use colors that are light rather than bright or dark (pastels, neutrals and white are all great color possibilities). Consider picking some furniture items for the room that are the same colors as the walls. This way, a bigger piece (like a large chest or armoire) will blend into the room and make it look wider.

4. Certain Accessories are Must-Haves
Whether it’s a dining, coffee or end table, a table made out of glass will keep the appearance of open space. Call your local ColorTyme store to see what glass tables are available to rent. You can also increase the appearance of the size of the room by adding mirrors. Mirrors will reflect light and color, opening up look of the room. Try mirror tiles or place a full length mirror on a wall and your room will appear be double its size!

5. Keep it Clean
It’s no surprise that clutter makes a room seem even smaller, so keep the space tidy and organized. It’s better to take something into the room when you need it and clear it out when it’s not in use than to stash it there permanently.

Whatever you need to update widen the feel of a small room in your home, ColorTyme gives you an affordable rent-to-own option. Remember, deliver and installation is included at no extra charge!

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