BRIGHAM COLUMN: What to buy in July

Knowing when the time is right to buy is half the battle. As the heat cranks up this summer, we here at Charleston Savvy Shopper are constantly looking for hot deals.

There are certain items that typically go on sale in July, and if you want to get a real bargain, now is the time to buy.

Butter: As mentioned for June, butter production is usually best this time of year, which makes prices drop. Stock up now because you can freeze butter for up to six months.

Soda, beer, condiments and grills: Take advantage of sales around the holiday and stock up, buying grills after July 4, according to kiplinger.com.

Furniture: The Fourth of July holiday weekend often sees major promotional discounts on furniture as store owners work to make room for new products, says Jaclyn C. Hirschhaut, vice president of public relations and marketing for The American Home Furnishings Alliance, an organization that identifies the data and research needs of the U.S. furniture industry.

Suits: Spring suits go on sale this month. It's unlikely you will find a suit that fits just off the rack, according to Josbank.com. So before you buy, do your research and get an idea of what you want. Consider donating your old suits to organizations such as Dress for Success or Career Gear.

Theater tickets: There are more than 35 shows both on and off Broadway that you can see for less, says James Bruce, a blogger for the discount ticket site Applause.

This also is a great time to buy local theater tickets for the season that starts in August. When you buy a season membership you can save up to 30 percent, says Emily Wilhoit, executive director of the League of Charleston Theatres.

Also available is a Season Play Sampler Card. It sells for $80 and gets you a ticket to five participating productions of your choice. That comes out to $16 per ticket. It works like a punch card and doesn't expire.

For more on these deals, go to www.theatrecharleston.comfor more information.

Looking for more deals? Check out the Charleston Savvy Shopper blog at postandcourier.com/savvy shopper; it's updated throughout the week with fresh deals. You can also sign up for our Daily Deals at www.charlestonsavvyshopper.com.

Reach Shannon Brigham at charlestonsavvyshopper@postand courier.com. Follow us on Twitter @chssavvyshopper or find us on Facebook.