My friends and I have opted for a newer type of hangout spot within the past year: Target. Trips to Target have somehow become an integrated part of our time together. And before you ask, we definitely did end up spending more than intended—at least the first time.
It started out in the beginning of last year, around the end of January. My best friends and I were planning to hang out on a Friday night when one of them suggested we stop at Target before dinner to look at the festive Valentine’s Day decorations. My friend is known for her signature holiday-themed headbands, so I obliged because Target hands-down has the cutest décor. Right as we entered, there were Valentine’s Day-themed headbands in the dollar section, so naturally, we popped them on our heads and proceeded to roam around the store.
Thus began the multiple instances where we got side-tracked and inevitably forgot the initial reason for our visit. Our first distraction was the clothing section, where we spent a solid chunk of the time browsing through the newest trends ranging from brands such as Universal Thread to A New Day to Mossimo Supply Co. (which no longer graces our presence at Target stores nationwide). Then we got enticed by the jewelry section, followed by the shoe section. It’s almost as though the store’s layout is purposely designed to hook customers from one item to the next, regardless of whether they truly need a new suede boot or a pair of earrings from Bauble Bar. We managed to get through the men’s clothing, baby supplies, and children’s toys sections rather quickly (surprise, surprise) and only stopped in the books section to sneak a glimpse of the newest best-seller books.
Not too soon after, we approached the holy grail of Valentine’s Day decorations—pricey chocolate boxes, cards, party decorations—it was more elaborate than I could have imagined. What more could one possibly need to celebrate the upcoming holiday? Heck, if Target sold decorations for Earth Day, guess who would end up buying tree-themed décor? This gal!
If I learned anything that day, it was that Target has the power to wipe me clean of my money. The final section we encountered included additional party decorations and school supplies—my weaknesses (well as you can see, most of Target is my weakness). I found myself putting gift bags, notebooks, and streamers into my shopping cart, regardless of whether I knew my next use for these items. We finally reached the end of this dangerous adventure, bought our stuff, and began exiting the store—not before realizing we were seconds away from leaving the store while still wearing the Valentines’ Day-themed headbands (which we quickly placed back into the dollar section) and then left. If you’re curious, our total time spent there was a little less than two hours, which is surprising—I would’ve definitely spent more time roaming around had my impending hunger not overcome me.
That’s essentially the story of my first trip to Target with my friends for the purpose of just hanging out. I wish I could say Target excursions were a phase, but it’s developed more into a lifestyle, if I’m being honest.
Disclaimers for any Target lovers:
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Be careful when visiting Target, as you may find yourself spending money on bizarre items. Probably a good idea to bring a friend who can stop you from the potential over-spending.
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The party decorations section is extremely dangerous; I found myself wanting to plan the bridal shower of my best friend who has no immediate plans for marriage…
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Universal Thread may just be one of the most top-quality brands you never knew you needed—from jeans to sweaters to shoes, it now comprises more than ½ of my closet space