For those of you makeup-obsessed folks, you’ve probably already heard about MAC Cosmetics’ first sample sale in NYC July 19-22.
If you haven’t already gone but plan to go, here are some things to keep in mind first.
1. Prepare for the heat
Check the weather for the day you plan on going. If you haven’t been outside lately, it’s HOT. Bring shades, a giant hat or an umbrella to cover yourself from the sun. Be sure you have sunscreen on or you bring it with you. This could also be a great way for you to get a tan. You’ll be standing in line outdoors, directly in the sunlight. Bring water and lots of it. You also don’t want to get hungry while waiting in line, so bring some snacks.
2. Bring something to do
You’ll be waiting forever in a gigantic line. Bring a book, be sure your phone is charged, or bring a friend with you. Also, if you have a friend, you can swap places in and out of line. One of you can go get food or drinks while the other one holds the spot in line. You can also take turns finding some shade out of the line. At one point, I stood in the shade while a friend held my spot.
3. Plan your day wisely
I got in line at 1:20 p.m. and got into the building at 4 p.m.
4. Don’t be too disappointed
I had an idea of what I wanted to buy while I was standing in line. The closer I got to the door, the more I heard shoppers come out expressing their disappointment at the lack of types of products. Remember, this isn’t like shopping in the MAC store or on their website. Not everything in their inventory will be out on the tables. So although I wanted a 184 fan brush, lipstick in Heaux and blush in Brit Wit, I didn’t get any of those, or anything else on my specific list.
5. Mandatory bag check
There’s a mandatory bag check, so keep that in mind before you go. Plus, you don’t really want to be carrying anything heavy since you’ll be standing in line in the sun for what seems like an eternity.
6. Do you really need that?
I think there are two ways to go at this: The first way is to buy everything that’s available. That’s if you’re a MAC addict or a makeup artist. The second way is to buy what you think you’ll like or know you’ll use. I chose the latter. I knew I’d be spending a lot of money, and even though everything was discounted, I know myself well. I know if I buy something I may not normally buy, I probably won’t end up using it. Of course, you can also use this opportunity to not only expand your collection and try new things, but to buy gifts for your loved ones.
7. To basket or not to basket?
It’s safe to say I did some damage while I was browsing for products. I kept picking things up and putting them back. There are small shopping baskets you can use to carry things you want to purchase, but keep in mind you’ll be more likely to put more items into your basket than if you just picked things up and carry them in your hands.
8. The discount
Things are up to 60% off. Don’t hyperventilate.
I paid $6.80 for a lipstick that normally goes for $17.
I paid $8 for lip crayons that were priced at $20.
I paid $8 for a foiled eye shadow that was originally $20.
I paid $8.80 for a blush originally priced at $22.
I paid $10 for an eye shadow brush that would normally be $25.
Overall, the line was just way too long and it was way too hot and sunny. I’m still not sure if it was worth it or not. I mean yes, I did get a handful of makeup products out of this sample sale trip, but was it worth my time? I left the building at 4:45 p.m.
To me, it’s worth it only because I love makeup. The only thing you lose is time and money and perhaps patience. I figured that if I don’t end up using a product, I’ll give it away to someone who’ll put it to good use.
Follow me on Snapchat at sjwong18 to see my full haul.
