Local mom perfects the art of the deal

(FOX Providence) - These days families are looking to trim their budgets wherever they can, and one local mom has perfected the art of the deal.

Karen Wilmes, known as " Koupon Karen ", joined The Rhode Show to share some of her money saving secrets.

Karen is a stay-at-home mom, and knew she had to find ways to save money to keep up with all the expenses of having a family.

"So, I started using coupons more and I just kind of fell in to this online world where there were so many deals that could be made with coupons and sales at all the different stores, that I kind of became obsessed. And I started saving money like crazy," said Karen.

Soon friends and family were asking Karen how she tracked down the deals.

"So, I started a blog to show them how to do it, because anyone can really use coupons and save money."

Back-to-school season is almost upon us, and Karen has found some items that are free or almost free.

• Visit kouponkaren.com for what's available.

And if you're looking to buy holiday gifts or birthday gifts in advance, Karen recommends searching Groupon, LivingSocial or Eversave for great deals.