Black Friday: A Shopper’s Delight in Michigan

MICHIGAN – For Kate Rogers, Black Friday isn’t just a day to score deals—it’s her favorite holiday of the year. Since childhood, Kate has embraced the thrill of in-person shopping, a tradition that began with her mom and aunt and has evolved into a cornerstone of her life.

“Black Friday has always been special for me,” Kate said. “It started when I was little, going out with my mom and aunt. Even when I lived in D.C. for a couple of years, I made sure to keep the tradition alive, even if I had to shop solo. Now, I’m back to shopping with them, and my 12-year-old cousin has joined in. It’s exciting to share this with the next generation.”

This annual event is more than just a shopping spree for Kate—it’s a day steeped in tradition and joy. Over the years, the routine has stayed largely the same, starting with a coffee stop and diving into the frenzy of deals. This year, however, the plan shifted slightly to accommodate the newest member of their shopping crew. “We usually begin at Target Starbucks, but this year, we’re starting at the mall to avoid the afternoon chaos. My cousin is finally old enough to join in, and it’s fun to see her experience the excitement I’ve loved for so long.”

Preparation is part of the fun for Kate, who enjoys strategizing the best way to tackle the day’s adventures. While her primary goal is to find Christmas gifts for family and friends, she admits to always leaving room for a few surprises for herself. “One year, I got a JBL speaker; another year, it was a full-sized Christmas tree for my bedroom. But most years, it’s more about finding smaller treasures,” she said with a laugh.

Black Friday for Kate is not without its share of memorable stories. She recalls pushing her way to grab the last JBL speaker, dealing with road rage in a Kohl’s parking lot, and even laughing about a middle-school friend who once got so overwhelmed she threw up into a Target bag. “It’s part of what makes the day so fun—the chaos, the energy, the unpredictable moments,” she said.

Despite the growing popularity of online shopping and the rise of Cyber Monday, Kate remains loyal to the in-store experience. “Online shopping is just not the same,” she explained. “I get overwhelmed with too many options, and it’s harder to make decisions. In-store, you can see, touch, and really experience the items. Plus, there’s nothing like the instant gratification of taking something home right away.”

For Kate, Black Friday is more than just a day of discounts; it’s a celebration of the season, a bonding experience with family, and a chance to immerse herself in the thrill of the hunt. “It’s a day that combines my favorite things—shopping and spending time with the people I love. The energy is contagious, and it feels like the entire country is joining in on this shared adventure. It’s the perfect way to kick off the holidays.”

Though the day has evolved over the years, Kate’s enthusiasm remains unchanged. For her, Black Friday is a tradition that blends nostalgia, excitement, and connection—a reminder that some of the best moments in life are found in the joy of shared experiences.