7 Mistakes You’re Making with the Macy’s Friends & Family Sale (and How to Fix Them)
The wait is over! The Macy’s Friends & Family Sale is officially here, running from April 23 through May 3, 2026. This is the moment we’ve all been waiting for: a chance to snag 30% off top designers and 15% off beauty favorites that rarely go on sale.
But before you start filling your cart, are you shopping smart? Even the most seasoned deal-hunters can leave money on the table. Here are seven common mistakes and how you can fix them to maximize your savings.
1. Waiting Until the Weekend
The sale kicks off today, April 23. If you wait until the weekend to browse, the best sizes and hottest home items will be gone. The early bird gets the 30% off! Shop early at Macy’s to ensure you get exactly what you want.
2. Skipping the Beauty Department
Many shoppers assume beauty is excluded. While the discount is 15% instead of 30%, this is a rare window to save on luxury fragrances and high-end skincare. Use code FRIEND to stock up on your daily essentials.
3. Ignoring the “FRIEND” Label
Not everything in the store is eligible for the discount. To avoid heartbreak at checkout, look for the items specifically labeled “FRIEND.” If it doesn’t have the tag, the promo won’t apply.
4. Overlooking the Clearance Section
Mistake #4 is the costliest! You can actually apply the 30% discount on top of many clearance items. This “double-dipping” can lead to savings of 70% or more off the original price.
5. Paying for Shipping
Don’t let a $10 shipping fee ruin your deal. Macy’s offers free shipping on orders of $99 or more. If you’re just under the threshold, add a small beauty item or a household staple to tip the balance.
6. Forgetting the “New Account” Stack
Macy’s usually doesn’t allow coupon stacking, but there’s one big exception: opening a new Macy’s account. This can often be combined with the Friends & Family discount for even deeper savings.
7. Not Checking the Brownstone Marketplace
At Brownstone Worldwide, we do the heavy lifting for you. Our Marketplace curators are constantly updating our daily deals section with the best finds from Macy’s and beyond. Check in with us daily so you never miss a price drop!
Happy shopping, and remember: stay informed and stay stylish!
