I remember my panic attack when I first went shopping for home furnishings after college. I could not believe the astronomical prices, which made me better appreciate the great sacrifice my parents made when they had to return the new couch they had bought on sale after I broke out in hives.

What? Don’t tell me you have never had an allergic reaction to your couch.

Since them, I am always on the lookout for great bargains and was thrilled to stumble upon Real Deals, a Home Décor franchise that offers Denver metro shoppers an affordable alternative to costly home furnishing retailers. Kathryn and Darrin Lee opened their store on April 24th. To keep prices down, they are only open on Thursdays and Saturdays.

My friend Lisa and I checked out this popular franchise a few weeks ago and were delighted with our finds! Real Deals carries a variety of metal wall art, mirrors, clocks, decorative vases, gallery art and furniture priced well below what consumers are used to paying.

“We’ve had people tell us we’re crazy, we’ll never make it only being open two days a week,â€? says Darrin. “But after we looked at the business plan and the success of the other stores in the franchise, we became really excited to bring Real Deals to Denver.” Kathryn adds, “We’re excited to attract customers that otherwise may not find us if the economy were different and our hope is that the two days we’re open become an event.â€?

There are over 50 Real Deals across the US, and their slogan of Two Days a Week, Too Good to be True certainly seems to ring true to their customer base. Importing their own décor lines also helps keep product prices low, and gives them unique pieces unavailable in other décor stores. “We plan to make shopping at Real Deals a fun, friendly, unique atmosphere,â€? says Darrin. “With fantastic prices and new products arriving almost weekly, our shoppers can have a different experience every time they come in.â€?

We are pleased to offer a $25 gift certificate to Real Deals. To enter, simply email us at giveaways@milehighmamas.com with “Real Deals Denver” in the subject line. Contest deadline is June 7, 2008. Bonus deal: mention Mile High Mamas during your next visit and receive 20% off any one item (excluding sale or clearance items).