We are all aware of the wave of discount websites that have popped up in the last year. Among them: Groupon, Buywithme, Livingsocial, Urban Dealight, and now even Facebook has entered the ring with Facebook Deals. I think there is a great value that goes beyond the initial discount these websites offer. Here is my personal take on their real value, based on my personal experience of purchasing a few deals myself.

First and foremost, I think they are great at offering exposure to businesses in my area that I would probably never find in the first place. When I see a deal that is 45 minutes away from where I live I automatically discard it. Why in the world would I spend $20 for $40 worth of food in Fort Worth, when I will spend my discount putting gas in my vehicle to make the trip? Plus, will I ever go back? Probably not.

I have recently purchased a groupon for a business that is less than 10 miles from my house, offering a service I have been looking for, and was obviously priced at a steal. Upon my visit, I had a great experience from a professional staff, and results that prove it worth my future business.

This brings me to what I consider the best value of the whole experience. Not only was the business brought to my attention via the website, I got a great deal, and now I am a loyal customer even beyond my discounted visit.

I think it is ludicrous to bounce from discount to discount for the sake of a deal when I found a business that more than fulfilled my initial deal.

The business most definitely did not make much profit off my deal, and I was more than pleased with their results. Since that is the case, my assumption is they are certainly going to take care of me as a full price client.

Putting your trust in a different person each time you get a service such as your hair done is like playing the lottery. A lottery that puts at stake your best accessory: Your hair. Using discount websites to try out a new salon, or look for a new stylist as you just moved to Dallas is using them responsibly. Being in a constant search for the best deal when it comes to personal services that deal with your hair and skin is a recipe for disaster. True results and fulfillment in such services come with time and tenure with a skilled professional.

-Brandon Stephens