Other Ways to Get Free Stuff

Sometimes, you can get free stuff just by speaking up!

For example, I currently have burgundy hair and it is very hard to keep the color from fading. So I discovered Roux Color Refresh Mask and I fell in love with this product. When I went to the store to pick some up, I discovered that they discontinued it and bought up every bit they had left. But I was still so sad about it, that I went to Roux's Facebook page and sent them a private message. I basically asked them if it is true that they discontinued the product and if they were going to be making an alternative. I ended up speaking with their marketing manager who told me that unfortunately, the answer was no, but lo and behold she sent me an entire YEAR supply of the product for free along with a lovely little handwritten note. Now I'm set for a long time. And by the time I use up the product, I will probably have a new hair color anyway.

A full year supply of my absolute favorite hair product! Score!!!

I have also gotten free things by writing to manufacturers when I have had an issue with their product. I don't advocate doing this for selfish reasons, only if you don't have a legitimate complaint. Keep it honest, people. But also don't be afraid to reach out - and please BE POLITE!

For example, I purchased a Marie Callender's frozen dinner and the size of the chicken was teeny tiny - like a chicken nugget. I was so looking forward to my meal and I was so disappointed when I saw how small it was (yeah, I know, that's what she said). But anyway, I took a picture of it with my phone and sent it to them in a very polite email. They sent me a coupon for a free meal.

Other ways to get free stuff:

• Ask for samples at your local beauty supply stores and department stores
• Write to manufacturers to tell them that you love their products. 
• If you know someone who is a sales rep or works with a company who sells items that you like, ask them if they can hook you up with one of their products or samples. 
• Sign up for market research studies and paid panels. You can read more about that here.

The moral of the story is, it never hurts to ask. Just don't expect anything and you might be pleasantly surprised!

Have you ever tried any of these things and got free stuff? Do you have any other tips you would like to share? I'd love to hear about it. Feel free to share your tips in the comments or you can email me.

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