ATTENTION LAST MINUTE SHOPPERS

Ding Ding Ding! You have two shopping days until Christmas! If your family tradition is to open gifts at midnight Christmas Eve, then I hate to break it to you, but you only have one day left. I don’t mean to scare you, but I’m just mentally preparing you for the long lines and maze of parking lots. Don’t hyperventilate or kick yourself for waiting until the last minute. Here are a few shopping tips for our last minute shoppers:

Online Pick Up: You’re able to shop online and select “In Store Pickup”. You’re able to purchase your items, and pick them up at costumer service. There will be a line yes, but you can rest assured, because your items will be waiting for you behind the counter.

Price Matching: Stores are now price matching offers that are sold online. Do your research before shopping, and see if there are any cheaper offers online. You may be too late for online ordering, but you may be able to save a few dollars by price matching.

Dollar Store Wonders: I’m a big fan of dollar store and family discount stores. You’re able to load up on essential stocking stuffers such as candy, crayons, travel toys, coloring and reading books. You could also offer to bring napkins, cups, silver ware and plates to your holiday party as well.

Baking vs. Shopping: The holidays can be an expensive time of the year and if you have a long list of people to shop for you may feel the financial hit come January. Embrace your sweet side and bake personalized tasty treats for your friends and family.

Gift Cards: Some people view the Gift Card as an “impersonal” Christmas gift; however, some people appreciate the ability to purchase something they truly want. Since the invention of the gift receipt, it’s customary to allow the gift recipient the ability to return an item to exchange for something else. Avoid the mental anguish guessing the person’s clothing size. Instead, tailor the gift card to the person’s favorite retail store. For the video gamers, there are also gift cards for game systems. They’re able to shop online for games, as well as add on functions - sometimes at a reduced rate.  

Donate your Time: If you’re still feeling in the spirit of giving, look into your local organizations by helping feed the homeless or assist in gift giving to the less fortunate this season. Donating your time to these organizations will be much appreciated.

I hope all these tips help you in your last minute shopping adventures. Make sure to keep all your receipts for record purposes, contact your local bank to notify of unusual spending habits so you’re not faced with any holds and remember that any gift given will be loved and appreciated.

Happy Shopping

^Cari