How Small Businesses Can Stand Out This Back-to-School Season

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Businesses that take advantage of holidays and key seasons where shopper demand tends to increase, typically see more shoppers and in turn – more sales. Customers are already shopping for back-to-school, so using strategies that will propel your business into the spotlight can help you earn a slice of that spending pie – which is estimated to reach $39 billion this year. And the best part is, your business doesn’t have to sell school supplies or first day of school outfits to join in. Here are five strategies your small business can use this back-to-school season.

1. Contests and Giveaways

Contests and giveaways are typically a win-win for both you and your customers. Your customers will have the chance to engage with your business and potentially receive a prize in return, which will help get the word out about your business and hopefully attract new patrons. One contest idea for this time of year, might be entering all who make a purchase and post a photo using a specific hashtag – into a drawing for a free backpack filled with school supplies. If you’re looking to connect with a specific type of customer, such as a teacher – think about offering a gift card for classroom supplies to an educator who posts their classroom, again using a specific hashtag. #PeopleLoveFreeStuff.

2. Create In-Store Experiences

If you have a storefront, you have a unique opportunity to create in-store back-to-school themed experiences for your customers. For example, you could invite a local teacher or school administrator to host a session for parents and students. Or, you could set up a back-to-school themed photo op within your store for customers to take pictures. Bonus points if they post the pictures and tag your business! Whether your customers didn’t know you had these experiences until they were already in the door, or they came to your business knowing you did – this shows your clientele that you care and are community focused too.

3. Offer Discounts

Back-to-school shopping is typically a family’s second-largest annual spending event and parents are understandably looking to save where they can. That’s where your business comes in – even if you don’t directly offer school essentials. You can encourage first-time shoppers to return to your store a second time, by offering them a back-to-school seasonal discount. For example – try using email or social media to offer a percentage or dollar amount off the next purchase, or a free product or service if they bring in their receipt from the last purchase. If you are targeting parents, show them how the savings they may get by shopping with you – can be put back into their budget elsewhere.

4. Special Bundles

Messaging is key. You might be thinking, “What does my pool cleaning company have to do with back-to-school?” The answer is everything – kind of.

If your business offers a product that is needed by parents, children, or educators during back-to-school season – offer them a bundle on your services. This can add value when you show your potential customers that you can save them money or trips to the store, just by choosing your business. Going back to our original example, if you own a pool cleaning company – offer a discounted bundle on early September pool skimming and equipment maintenance to save busy working parents from having to do it themselves. It’s all about how you market your business, and show how it’s relevant – in any season.

5. Don’t Forget Your Existing Customers

As a small business, your repeat customers are some of your best advocates. You have already earned their trust, they spend money at your business, and they promote your brand to others free-of-charge – so be sure to thank them for it! Offer special discounts or deals for returning customers as a way to say thank you for supporting your business, and showing them that you want to make back-to-school season a little easier on their wallets.

The excitement and nerves of back-to-school season are feelings that many people resonate with all-too-well. If your business can lean into the excitement and ease some of those nerves by offering shoppers what they need when they need it, you may be able to capitalize on back-to-school season and continue building a loyal customer base well into the future.

Learn more about how First Financial can help support your small business by emailing us at business@firstffcu.com. Be sure to check out all of our small business services on our website. For better business banking, Think First!

Summer 2025 Newsletter

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We’re adding one more item to your summer reading – because the First Financial Summer Member Newsletter has arrived!

In a continued effort to go green, we’re publishing our quarterly member newsletter electronically – it can also be found on our website and social media sites. Paper copies will be available in our branches.

The Summer First Edition Member Newsletter features the following articles:

To view a copy of the newsletter, click here.

We hope that you enjoy making memories with your loved ones before the sun sets on summer!

How to Budget After College: A Guide to Adulting with Your Money

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As you move the tassel on your cap from the right side to the left on graduation day, it might feel like just yesterday that you were setting foot in your first college class. Moving the tassel at graduation is a right of passage – it signifies successfully completing the requirements of your degree, beginning a new chapter in your life, and hopefully starting to receive a steady paycheck. Although creating a plan for your new post-grad income and the expenses that come along with it, might seem overwhelming – it is a practice that will lay the groundwork for continued financial success. Here’s how you can create your first post-college budget to help you stay on track, reach your monetary goals, and feel confident about your financial future.

Step 1: Look at Your Paystub

When you accepted your first job offer, you were likely told a gross salary or hourly wage that you could expect to receive. The keyword is gross – that is, the amount of money you earn before any deductions are subtracted. The amount that you make and the amount that will be deposited into your bank account are two very different things. Your pay stub should break down every item that is taken out of your gross pay. Some of those items are taxes, social security, and health insurance premiums. It’s a good idea to look at your paystub from time-to-time to ensure that everything you don’t see in your bank account looks correct.

Step 2: Identify Your Monthly Take Home Pay

Once you’ve found your way out of the “deductions jungle,” you will arrive at your net or take home pay. If this isn’t the first paycheck you have received from this employer, this number should look familiar – it’s what gets deposited into your bank account every payday. If you are paid semi-monthly (the 1st and 15th or the 15th and last day of the month), you can multiply this number by two to get your monthly take home income. If you are paid bi-weekly, you can generally do the same – though there are typically two months a year in which you will get three paychecks.

Step 3: Figure Out Your Fixed and Variable Expenses

There are various factors that will impact what your fixed and variable expenses are as a recent graduate. Will you be living with your parents, living with a roommate, or living on your own? Are you expected to be working in-person or remotely? Do you have student loans? Fixed expenses are those that are predictable in frequency and cost and can include rent/mortgage, student loan payments, insurance premiums, and phone bills. Variable expenses are those where frequency and cost change based on your consumption or usage and can include utilities, groceries, entertainment, and gas. Expenses can be necessary, necessary periodic, and optional. While a vet bill for your sick puppy might be a necessary periodic expense (you aren’t expecting your puppy to get sick regularly), a concert ticket is probably optional (yes, even if you have FOMO). Make a list of your necessary fixed and variable expenses, as well as what their costs might be, to begin constructing your budget.

Step 4: Crunch the Numbers

Subtract all of your necessary fixed and variable expenses from your monthly take home income. One of two scenarios will be true – your expenses will cost more than your income or you will have extra money after your necessary expenses are paid. Ideally, we hope that your situation is the latter. If your expenses cost more than your income, you will want to consider ways that you can cut expenses, find a part-time job, or start a side hustle to bridge the gap. If you have money leftover after your expenses are paid, consider some of your short and long term financial goals. If you don’t have an emergency fund, which experts recommend should cover approximately 3-6 months of living expenses – that’s a good place to start.

If you’re looking for a straightforward budget that breaks down your monthly income and expenses, check out our fillable budget worksheet.

New Expenses to Expect After College

If you recently graduated and are looking at your budget wondering where all of the expenses are – don’t worry, they’re coming. On a more serious note, there will be new expenses that you can expect to appear now that you are out of college. If you took out student loans, you may have to begin repayment in the months following graduation depending on your situation and your lender. If you shared a family car or didn’t have a car in college, you may be considering an auto loan or lease to have reliable transportation to and from your job. If you haven’t started saving for your retirement, your first job is an ideal time to start – so that you make saving for your financial future a habit early on.

If you’re in Monmouth or Ocean Counties in New Jersey and finding a reliable financial institution to bank with is on your post-grad to-do list, consider a credit union like First Financial. Becoming a member is as easy as depositing $5 in a base savings account and entitles you to a wide range of financial solutions from low-rate loans to everyday checking accounts – all equipped with personalized service.*

*A First Financial membership is required to obtain any account or loan and is available to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties. See credit union for details. A $5 deposit in a Base Savings Account is required to establish membership prior to opening any account/loan.

Navigating Financial Conversations with Aging Parents

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Having a conversation with your parents about their finances can seem like a daunting task. However, it is an essential step in helping to ensure their financial well-being as they get older. Here are some practical tips to help you navigate these discussions.

Start the conversation

Talking about money can be difficult. However, it’s important to initiate a financial conversation with your parents before they become too ill or incapacitated. Your parents may be unwilling to talk to you at first because they are reluctant to give up control over their financial affairs, or they are embarrassed to admit that they need your help. It’s important to approach the topic sensitively and make it clear that you fully respect their needs and concerns.

If they are still hesitant to talk to you and are capable of managing their affairs for now, you may want to revisit the discussion later. Or you could suggest that they talk to another family member, trusted friend, attorney, or financial professional.

Organize financial and legal documents

Once the lines of communication are open, you can help your parents organize their financial and legal documents. Start by creating a personal data record that lists the following types of information:

Financial: Include all of your parents’ bank/investment account information, including account/routing numbers and online usernames and passwords. You should also list any real estate holdings, along with any outstanding mortgages. Do your parents receive income from Social Security, a pension, and/or a retirement plan? You will want to include that information as well.

Legal: Find out if your parents have had any legal documents drawn up, such as wills, trusts, durable powers of attorney and/or health-care directives. Locate other important documents too, such as birth certificates, property deeds, and certificates of title.

Medical: Determine what type of health insurance your parents have — Medicare, private insurance, or both. You should also have the names and contact information for their health-care providers, their medical history, and any current medications.

Insurance: List what other types of insurance coverage your parents have — life, home/property, auto, or long-term care, for example — along with the names of their insurance companies and policy numbers.

Store the data record and any other pertinent documents either electronically or in a secure, fireproof box or file cabinet.

Help with managing finances

You can help your parents manage their finances by examining their budget and finding out their monthly income and expenses. Track your parents’ spending to make sure that they are living within their means. You should also discuss ways to address any outstanding debts they may have.

Find out how your parents pay their bills and expenses. If they still use traditional methods, encourage them to set up safer and more convenient ways to bank such as direct deposit and making payments online, instead of mailing paper checks. If your parents are uncomfortable with electronic payments, remind them to mail all bills inside the physical post office and not to use outdoor mailboxes, which may be targets for mail theft.

Do your parents need additional support in managing their finances? There are ways for you to obtain the necessary authorization to assist them. One way is to become a joint account holder on certain bank accounts. This can give you direct access to manage transactions, monitor account activity, and ensure bills are paid. However, being a joint account holder may have certain legal and tax ramifications. Another option is for them to obtain a durable power of attorney, which is a legal document that grants you authorization to make financial decisions on their behalf, even if they become incapacitated. It may also be helpful for them to add you or someone else as a trusted contact for their accounts.

Discuss estate planning issues

If they haven’t already done so, make sure your parents have certain legal documents in place — such as wills and/or trusts — to ensure that their estate planning wishes are followed. In addition, they may need to have a durable power of attorney, health-care proxy, and living will in place so they have someone to manage their money and health-care issues if they become ill/impaired. Issues surrounding the care of an aging parent can be complex. Consider consulting a financial professional and/or elder law attorney who specializes in financial and legal issues that affect older adults.

Questions about estate planning? Contact First Financial’s Investment & Retirement Center by calling 732.312.1534. You can also email mary.laferriere@lpl.com or maureen.mcgreevy@lpl.com

Securities and advisory services are offered through LPL Financial (LPL), a registered investment advisor and broker/dealer (member FINRA/SIPC). Insurance products are offered through LPL or its licensed affiliates. First Financial Federal Credit Union (FFFCU) and First Financial Investment & Retirement Center are not registered as a broker/dealer or investment advisor. Registered representatives of LPL offer products and services using First Financial Investment & Retirement Center, and may also be employees of FFFCU. These products and services are being offered through LPL or its affiliates, which are separate entities from and not affiliates of FFFCU or First Financial Investment & Retirement Center.

Securities and insurance offered through LPL or its affiliates are:

The information provided is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax planning or legal advice. We suggest that you consult with a qualified tax or legal professional.

LPL Financial Representatives offer access to Trust Services through The Private Trust Company N.A., an affiliate of LPL Financial.

Content in this material is for general information only and not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly.

CRPC conferred by College for Financial Planning.

This communication is strictly intended for individuals residing in the state(s) of CT, DE, FL, GA, MA, NJ, NY, NC, OR, PA, SC, TN and VA. No offers may be made or accepted from any resident outside the specific states referenced.

Prepared by Broadridge Advisor Solutions Copyright 2025.

Renting a Car This Summer? Factor in Potential Fees

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Renting a car can be a smart way to explore new destinations this summer, but it’s easy to get snagged by hidden costs if you focus only on the advertised rate. While rental agencies may market low daily rates, mandatory fees and optional add-ons can add 40–45% more to your total bill. Here are some things to consider prior to booking your next car rental.

Added fees on a car rental might include:

  • Airport or location fees: These can add up and are often not shown in the initial rate.
  • Taxes and regulatory charges: The government tacks these onto your rental bill.
  • Young driver fees: Drivers under age 25 often pay steep daily charges. Some agencies in certain states may also not even rent to a driver under age 25.
  • Additional drivers: Some companies charge for each extra name on the rental agreement.
  • Mileage limits or toll fees: Know ahead of time if there are daily limits or toll surcharges.
  • Refueling charges: Filling up off-site before you return the car will save you money compared to agency refueling fees.
  • Late pick-up fees: Did you reserve your car rental for a certain pick-up time, but your flight got delayed and you picked your car up a few hours later than initially planned? Be aware that some rental agencies may charge additional fees for this. Or if your return flight gets delayed, and you bring the rental car back later than initially planned.

Do you need rental insurance?

Your personal auto insurance or credit card may already provide coverage, so check before you accept the rental company’s typically costly insurance offers. Many credit cards will offer coverage for car rentals, but specifics vary. Check your credit card agreement for details on what you may already have as a credit cardholder.

Optional coverages include:

  • Loss Damage Waiver / Collision Damage Waiver
  • Supplemental Liability Insurance
  • Personal Accident Insurance
  • Personal Effects Coverage

Tips to trim car rental costs:

  1. Book carefully: Surprisingly, booking about one month out can be cheaper than booking way ahead. Expert sources note that last-minute rentals can save you ~13% compared to booking 90+ days ahead.
  2. Rent outside of the airport when possible: Avoid hefty airport surcharges by renting downtown or at nearby off-site lots.
  3. Bring your own extras: Skip rental gadgets like GPS, child seats, or in-car radios —bring them instead.
  4. Inspect the car carefully: Document any damage at pick-up and drop-off with photos or videos to avoid false damage claims.

Renting a car doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require a closer look at the fine print. By factoring in hidden fees, reviewing your existing insurance coverage, and planning ahead –  you can avoid surprise charges and stay on budget. Wherever your summer travels take you, being informed is the key to hitting the road with confidence. Subscribe to our First Scoop Blog for more tips and information on how to be a mindful consumer.

How to Save Big by Shopping Off-Season

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Looking to make your money go further? One of the smartest and simplest ways to save money is by shopping off-season. From clothing and outdoor gear to holiday décor and even travel, buying items when demand is low can lead to major savings.

When something is in-season, whether it’s winter coats or beach chairs, retailers know consumers are willing to pay more – so prices tend to stay high. But once the season ends, stores typically need to make room for new inventory. That’s when discounts, markdowns, and clearance sales often come into play.

By planning your purchases, you can avoid paying peak prices and take advantage of deeply discounted deals on quality items you’ll use in the future.

Common Items That Cost Less Off-Season

Here are a few examples of how off-season shopping can save you money:

  • Clothing: Buy winter coats and boots in late winter or early spring. Grab swimsuits and sandals in late summer. Retailers often mark these down by 50% or more once the season passes.
  • Holiday Decorations & Gifts: Shop for holiday lights, wrapping paper, and decorations after the holiday season ends. You’ll save big and be ready for the following year.
  • Grills & Patio Furniture: Prices for outdoor gear tend to drop dramatically in fall and winter. Buy during the off-season and you’ll be set for next summer without the high price tag.
  • Travel & Airfare: Consider booking trips during early spring and late fall. You’ll often find cheaper flights, accommodations, and fewer crowds.
  • Home Appliances & Tools: Air conditioners will go on sale in the fall, and snow blowers will be less expensive in the spring. Plan ahead and buy before the next peak appliance season hits.

Tips for Successful Off-Season Shopping

Ready to start saving? Use these tips to make off-season shopping work for you:

1. Make a Year-Round Shopping Calendar: Plan out when major seasonal items will go on sale and mark your calendar. Being strategic can really pay off.

2. Buy Ahead, Not on Impulse: Just because something is on sale, doesn’t mean you need it. Focus on what you’ll actually use in the future.

3. Size Up for Kids: When buying clothes for growing children, purchase next year’s sizes at end-of-season sales.

4. Store Items Properly: Keep your off-season purchases organized and stored well so they’re ready to go when you need them.

5. Stack Savings with Coupons or Rewards: Combine clearance prices with loyalty programs or cash back credit card rewards (like our uChoose Rewards program for First Financial Visa Cash Plus Cardholders), for even more savings.

Small Strategy, Big Savings

Off-season shopping is one of the easiest ways to cut costs without cutting corners. With a little planning and patience, you can stock up on high-quality items for a fraction of the cost and free up more room in your budget for the things that matter most.

At First Financial, we’re here to help you save smart all year long. Looking for more financial wellness tips? Check out some of our other posts on our First Scoop Blog!