La Familia

It’s no secret that consumers are crazy about Apple products. In the fourth quarter of 2011 alone, Apple raked in $46.33 billion in revenue as the company experienced a 90% jump in sales in the Americas. And with talk of an impending spring release for the iPad 3 and iPhone 5 rumors swirling,, it’s safe to say that Apple is positioned to carry its momentum into 2012.

True, Apple’s products are pretty darn cool. It’s difficult to remember a time before sleek-looking, ultra-sophisticated iPods, iPhones and iPads. And we all want them. There’s just one big problem: Huge, unaffordable price tags.

Want a brand-new iPad 2? Be prepared to drop at least $500 – for something that will be upstaged by a later and greater version in just a few short months. And the iPhone 4S? You don’t need Siri to understand that $700 for one of those bad boys is more than some people pay in monthly rent. Luckily, there is a way to get the latest-and-greatest Apple products for a fraction of the price: Shop at La Familia.

Our stores carry everything from iPod Nanos to MacBooks in near-perfect condition for a fraction of the price you’d pay in an Apple store. Plus, our lines are shorter and our salespeople are friendlier – it’s an all-around win.

So, the next time you look enviously at your neighbor’s brand-new iPhone and dream wistfully about how you’d love to play Angry Birds during boring work meetings, but can’t justify shelling out big bucks for something that costs more than your car, head over to La Familia. We might not be a $100 billion corporation with street-cred and a logo that’s recognizable worldwide, but we’re a heck-of-a-lot more fun. And we’ll even let you tell your friends that you waited in line overnight in front of an Apple store to buy the latest gadget instead of getting a deal with us – don’t worry, we’ve always got your back.

Break out the beer and guacamole – Super Bowl XLVI is just a little over a week away! Sure, maybe you’re not a fan of either the Giants or the Patriots – and maybe you even vehemently hate both teams – but statistics show that more than 110 million people have watched the big game for the last few years, so chances are good that you’ll be checking it out. And considering that more than 20 million of all viewers will likely be attending a Super Bowl party, it’s time to gear up and get ready.

At La Familia, we have everything you need to impress on game day, from big screen, high-definition TVs to surround sound stereo systems to mini-fridges that provide easy drink access from the comfort of your La-Z-Boy. But if you really want to impress (and we don’t mean with a Grill Sergeant Apron), we recommend whipping out some little-known facts and figures about the big day that will leave your friends thinking that you’re a fountain of football knowledge*. Below are a few interesting tidbits to keep your partygoers entertained during lulls in the action.

- According to a recent survey published by The Workforce Institute, an estimated additional 1.5 Americans will call in sick the Monday after Super Bowl Sunday. This number doesn’t include the people who are actually sick with something that doesn’t involve drinking too much beer. Another 4 million are expected to show up late (and likely stare blankly at their computer screens all day).

- The only thing that people do more than drink at a Super Bowl party is eat. On the big day, Americans will consume 8 million pounds of guacamole and 14,500 tons of chips.

- The Buffalo Bills have made the most consecutive appearances in the Super Bowl, making it to the big game in 1990, 1991, 1992 and 1993. Sadly for Buffalo fans, the team has still never won a Super Bowl title.

- The Pittsburg Steelers have claimed the most championships, with six total wins.

- According to the Insurance Information Institute, Super Bowl Sunday is second only to St. Patrick’s Day in the number of recorded alcohol-related accidents.

- The Houston Texans are the only team in the NFL to never appear in a Super Bowl game. To their credit, they’re the league’s newest team, established in 2002.

- Thirty-five percent (35%) of all game attendees write it off as a corporate expense. (Lucky them!)

- Mike Ditka, Tony Dungy and Tom Flores are the only ones to win Super Bowls as both players and coaches.

- The biggest blowout in Super Bowl history was Super Bowl XXIV, when the 49ers beat the Broncos 55-10. The closest game was when the Giants beat the Bills 20-19 in Super Bowl XXV.

- The Louisiana Superdome has hosted more Super Bowls than any other stadium, and is scheduled to host the big game for the seventh time in 2013

- Super Bowl XLVI will make New England’s seventh appearance and New York’s fifth.

*We take no responsibility for any heckling you may receive as a result of drinking too much beer and mixing up the facts and figures printed here.

Over the past few years, Americans have grown wise to a little secret that most of our customers have known for years: Pawn stores are great places to obtain quick loans and shop for merchandise at a lower cost than traditional retailers. Although some of this is due to a culture swing in which people have scaled down and are always looking for ways to save pennies, it’s impossible to ignore the power of television – specifically, the power of Pawn Stars.

On the air since 2009, Pawn Stars has become a cultural phenomenon – and the History Channel’s highest-rated show – that’s helped squash old, negative stereotypes about the pawn industry. And despite inspiring knock-offs – like Hardcore Pawn and Pawn Queens – Pawn Stars remains the king of the pawn reality television world. The “stars” have raked in some serious dough as the store has become a tourist destination, the show has increased in popularity and some of them have received their own side deals for books and endorsements. So, why do the head honchos of the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop have their panties in a bunch this week? This week, the History Channel debuted Cajun Pawn Stars – and The Old Man is not happy.

According to the Gold & Silver crew, they had an exclusivity deal with the History Channel and weren’t notified that a spin-off was in the works. They’re worried about someone else stealing their thunder and – more importantly – their ratings. But – in spite of all they’ve done for instilling a more positive perception of the pawn industry – it’s hard to feel too bad for them. And not just because they’re making it rain. Here are a few reasons why Rick, Big Hoss and the rest of boys should be able to sleep easy, despite the History Channel sibling rivalry.

- They get to work with some really cool merchandise. Let’s be honest, Gold & Silver gets way more interesting stuff that the average pawn shop. From historical documents to collectors’ cars to antiques, Pawn Stars features items that could be on Antiques Roadshow. But the average shop really just wants to help customers, which means taking anything that’s brought in for a loan – and, usually, that’s jewelry and electronics, not an original copy of the Constitution.

- They’re industry all-stars. True, they’ve come under fire for misrepresenting the average pawn shop, but the pawn industry recognizes that Pawn Stars has done wonders for public perception and brought in new clientele. In fact, they recently won the coveted “Pawnbroker of the Year” award from the National Pawnbrokers Association – solidifying Gold & Silver’s standing as the current industry “golden child.”

- There’s nowhere to go but up – for now. Competition aside, Pawn Stars is still “top dog.” People have fallen in love with the quirky cast and are intrigued by their dynamics – and another show on History Channel isn’t going to detract from the loyal viewers who tune in regularly. Plus, Rick Harrison recently signed a record-breaking 80-episode deal that will span four more seasons. Looks like for the Gold & Silver clan, the money and fame train is going to keep rolling on.

Do you watch Pawn Stars? If so, will you tune into Cajun Pawn Stars? Sound off in the comments to let us know what you think!

Every January 1, people around the globe solemnly swear to lose weight, kick their smoking habits, read more and travel the world.  And, usually, even the best intentions don’t keep these resolutions in tact by mid-February. So, rather than feeling like a failure for throwing your new year’s vows to the wayside, wouldn’t it be nice to make resolutions you can actually keep?

Because we want to see you succeed in your goals for 2012, we came up with a list of sure-fire, not-too-difficult to keep New Year’s resolutions that will keep you on the straight-and-narrow through December 31.

- Spend more time with loved ones. Been so busy with work and the rat race that you find it difficult to carve out enough time to see your close friends and family? Don’t forget that life’s short – and the best investment in life you can make is staying close to the people you love.

- Read that one book you’ve meant to get around to. A lot of people vow to read more each year. Rather than set unattainable goals to read 20 books this year, choose one or two that have collected dust in your bookshelf and promise yourself that you’ll finally get through them – even if it takes you until December 31 to do it.

- Eat better. We know that fast food windows are tempting after a long, tedious day at the office. But focusing on your health is one of the best things you can do for yourself. Search the Web for healthy, easy-to-prepare meals that you can whip up. And don’t forget to bring your lunch to work – you’ll save calories AND pennies.

- Walk more. Maybe you don’t have time to workout for an hour each day or the money for a gym membership. Instead, set small goals, like talking a walk during your lunch break, parking further away to get more steps in and taking the stairs instead of elevators. These little changes can make a big difference in getting you moving.

- Save money. Maybe you’re not the coupon clipping type. Or you don’t having a savings account. But one way you can save some bucks in 2012 is by shopping at La Familia instead of traditional retailers.

Think you have a better resolution? We’d love to hear about it in the comments!

In case you’ve lost track – or are just in serious denial – there are only five shopping days left until Christmas. Panicking yet? We know you’ve been stressed over what to get the man who has everything, the woman who never seems satisfied or the kid who will be totally bummed out if he or she doesn’t get the right toy. And with the clock ticking – and Santa no longer accepting new present requests in the North Pole – there’s only so much time left to figure it out.

Because we want to make sure you all have the best Christmas possible, we came up with a list of some last-minute gift ideas for the special people in your life.

For the kid who already has too many toys. Think your daughter/son/niece/nephew/other small person you need to get a gift doesn’t need another princess doll or racecar to add to his or her overflowing toy chest? How about going the brain-stimulation route by ordering a year-long subscription to a magazine like Kids Discover or Highlights? If you think a subscription would land with a thud, try picking up an activity or crafts set at Target, or check out National Geographic’s online kids store for some neat – and educational – items.

For the new or soon-to-be college graduate. We all know that entering the workforce is more difficult these days than ever – and most new, young professionals are completely unprepared for what awaits when they have to trade in beer bongs for briefcases. You can help make their transition a little easier by buying them an item that will give them a jump-start on the corporate world, like a business card holder, moleskin notebook or career book. If you’re looking for something a little snazzier, pick up an iPad or Kindle/Nook – both are available in La Familia’s stores for a fraction of the regular retail price.

For the person with the bleeding heart. Unfortunately, a donation to The Human Fund probably won’t cut it, but there are plenty of other perfectly good charities that accept donations in the name of a person who feels a close, personal connection to it. If you’re looking for something a bit more tangible, you could pick up a piece of Heart U Back jewelry from one of our stores, proceeds of which go to the ASPCA.

For the loved one who has everything. How about a karaoke machine – we bet he or she doesn’t have one of those (but we have plenty in our stores)? Or if you’d rather play it safe, maybe a nice piece of jewelry? Oh, forget it – just get him or her a gift card and call it a day.

Still clueless? Come visit one of our stores and one of our knowledgeable SLAs will help you find the perfect gifts. And happy holidays!

At La Familia, we’re all about giving back. Whether it’s extending the best loans to our valued customers or holding great promotions to help you save on the items you want, we try to go above and beyond to show not only our appreciation, but that we care about our customers and community.

Since the holiday season is all about giving back, we decided to take it up a notch this month beyond making Christmas a little brighter for our customers. That’s why La Familia has partnered with the Boys & Girls Club of Eatonville for their annual holiday “Adopt-a-Family” program. Over the next few weeks, our store managers, SLAs and headquarters staff will be pitching in to donate items for a family of five that otherwise won’t have gifts under the tree. The children – three girls and two boys, ages five through 16 – aren’t asking for much. They all asked for clothes and shoes, a couple of the girls would like candles, the youngest wants “princess fairy dolls,” and the boy requested a PS3 game. We’re thrilled to imagine how excited these children will be on Christmas morning to find that their simple gift requests are placed under a lit tree.

But it’s not only our staff that is making this family’s Christmas a little brighter – it’s you. Without our loyal customers who contribute to our company’s growth day in and out, we wouldn’t be able to help out a family in need. So, next time you take out a loan or stop in to purchase a TV, you can smile knowing that you helped us help four children have a Christmas they didn’t imagine was possible.

We at La Familia thank you for being part of our family – and enabling us to help out another.

Have you ever walked into a store, seen an item you really want, checked the price tag and walked out disappointed because there’s just no way you could afford it at that moment? Of course you have – haven’t we all? And if you’re like most people, you probably ran the price through your head, tried to figure out a way to make it work and sighed in exasperation over the fact that even though you didn’t have the money at that moment, you could in a few weeks – when the dress, piece of jewelry or new TV you want will be off the store’s floor.

At La Familia, we understand this dilemma well. Which is why we now have a layaway program to help our customers get the items they really want and need.

We know, we know: Everyone seems to be getting on the layaway bandwagon these days. Even Wal-Mart recently implemented a limited holiday layaway offer – restricted to toys and electronics – that has a $5 service charge and requires a $50 minimum of purchases. But our program is better. Why? Glad you asked.

- We do layaway year-round. See something you like tomorrow? You don’t need to rush to pick it up before the holidays. Just come back in 60 days to pay it off and it’s yours. (And if you participate in our “Christmas in July” promotion, you have until December to pick up merchandise.)

- Our program isn’t restricted just to certain items. As our customers know, we offer a diverse selection of merchandise – from jewelry to household goods to tools to kitchy items – and it’s all eligible for layaway.

- It’s the most cost-effective layaway around. At La Familia, we’re all about giving our customers the best deals – and our layaway is no exception. The program is free and only requires 10% down. Plus, take into account the fact that our items are priced lower than many traditional retail stores, and that all adds up to HUGE savings.

So, while you’re waiting for your next paycheck, but really need to knock some items off your holiday shopping list, swing by La Familia and ask about our layaway program. Or stop by after the holidays – because unlike some of our competitors who are extending holiday promotions, we’re here to help you year-round.

Holiday shoppers, put on your game faces because with Thanksgiving just days away, it’s almost time for the mobs to descend upon your favorite stores to fight and claw over items and deals. (Because there’s no better way to get into the holiday spirit, right?) While we at La Familia will be getting started with extending special deals a little early this holiday season – beginning with our “Why Wait Wednesday” promotion on November 23 – we realize that most of you will still be dragging yourselves out of your homes on Black Friday in an attempt to save some pennies.

As our customers know, La Familia helps people save on items every day – we laugh in the face of other stores’ one-day-only Black Friday sales. So, we decided to make the holiday season a little brighter for all of you by reducing coveted items even further each day between Black Friday and Christmas Eve. Through our “25 Days of Christmas” promotion, different types of merchandise – from video game systems to jewelry to tools – will be dramatically discounted every day. And for the grand finale: on Christmas Eve day, all gold will be sold at wholesale prices throughout all of our 19 stores.

So, forget about the Black Friday crowds and plan your holiday shopping strategy by referring to our daily deals during the “25 Days of Christmas.” Refer to the comprehensive list below for each daily promotion or check our Twitter and Facebook (Florida or Puerto Rico) pages if you need a reminder. And, don’t forget: even on non-discount days, La Familia always gives you the best deals and lowest prices on the items you need.

Happy holidays and happy shopping!

La Familia’s 25 Days of Christmas

November 26^th- Guitars- 35% OFF

November 28^th- Apple Products- 35% OFF

November 29^th- Mobile Phones- 20% OFF (prices starting at just $4.99!)

November 30^th- PlayStation- 35% OFF

December 1^st- All Silver Jewelry- Buy one, Get one FREE

December 2^nd- All Necklaces- 35% OFF

December 3^rd- All Bikes- 35% OFF

December 5^th- Nintendo Wii- 35% OFF

December 6^th- Watches- 20% OFF (prices starting at just $5.00!)

December 7^th- All Musical Instruments- 35% OFF

December 8^th- DVD players for $9.99

December 9^th- Car Audio Equipment- 35% OFF

December 10^th- All Tools- 35% OFF

December 12^th- All Rings- 35% OFF

December 13^th- All Cameras- 20% OFF (prices starting at just $9.99!)

December 14^th- All Computers- 35% OFF

December 15^th- Home Stereo Equipment- 35% OFF

December 16^th- DJ Equipment -35% OFF

December 17^th- GPS Navigation Systems- 35% OFF

December 19^th- All Video Games- 35% OFF

December 20^th- All DVD Movies- $1.00

December 21^st- All Bracelets- 35% OFF

December 22^nd- Xbox 360- 35% OFF

December 23^rd- All TVs- 35% OFF

December 24^th- All Gold Jewelry sold at WHOLESALE prices!

*Store inventory may vary. Prices while supplies last. Some exclusions may apply.  May not be combined with other offers or discounts.

Halloween? So last week. It’s time for the holidays!

Nevermind that we still need to get through Thanksgiving (I mean, all you really need for that is a turkey, some veggies and a bottle of wine, anyway, right?), stores across the country have set up their Christmas displays and are gearing up for an influx of seasonal shoppers. And with the National Retail Federation predicting that people are going to be hitting stores earlier than ever this year in search of the best deals, you’d better get cracking. Luckily for you, we already know where you can get the lowest prices on your Christmas shopping this year: La Familia!

By popular demand, we are pleased to announce that we’ll be bringing back our “Why Wait? Wednesday” promotion in all of our stores on November 23  – so you can get a jumpstart on your holiday shopping without the headache of Black Friday crowds. Whether you’re looking for new or used items, we have it all: stereo system equipment, musical instruments, electronics, iPhones and iPads, bikes, miscellaneous memorabilia and – of course – a diverse jewelry selection. And if things are a little tight this year, don’t forget that we are always here to help you get a little extra cash to make sure that your kids will still wake up to find something under the tree on Christmas morning.

To make sure you’re getting the best deals and promotions we have to offer, don’t forget to watch us on Facebook and Twitter – we’ll be announcing both planned and spontaneous deals throughout the holiday season. We’d also love to hear what kind of deals you’d like to see in La Familia stores – our goal is to make the holidays a little brighter for all our customers, so leave comments and tweets to let us know what can bring holiday cheer to your homes this year.

Happy shopping!

Happy Halloween from La Familia Pawn and Jewelry! Our team members had some fun today and broke out their best Halloween costumes. Check out some of these spooktacular photos!

What did you all dress up as this year?!