Shopping in general is time consuming. You have no clue what you need, but you know that you have to fill your fridge up. When it comes to holidays, this venture is even more exhausting. It takes a lot of time and everyone does it at the same time. The stress is often hard to cope with, especially if you are the busy type who barely has time to breathe. So what do you do then?
#1 Attention is the key
Learn how to control impulse shopping and be attentive to small details when buying gifts for your loved ones. You probably know already that a personal touch will work a very long way. Everyone gives out hints, whether they do it directly or indirectly. Maybe your brother keeps looking at a particular book whenever you get to the bookstore or perhaps your best friend keeps trying out a specific sweater.
#2 Narrow your selections
Make sure that you know who you are shopping for before even reaching to the mall. Do it with taste in mind, but think about habits, preferences and hobbies. It might help to just write down a list of characteristics.
#3 Got a list?
Most people who go shopping for holiday try out a lot of stores. They go here and there in the attempt to test the waters. As a general rule, a lot of shoppers opt for new things that they have not seen before, even if they are far from what their receivers expect. So how about saving some time and coming up with a list instead?
#4 Find more items for less time
Shopping online is the key to quick shopping, especially around holidays. There are three reasons – more diversified products, better prices and door delivery.
#5 Just ask!
Sometimes, picking the perfect gift can be a real challenge. This venture can become extremely simple though if you just ask. What would they like? You avoid the risk of buying something useless.
#6 Edible items work great
Everyone would die for a particular food. If you know what the receiver loves, go for it, but take it to the next level. Do not show up with a simple pizza, but with some rare ingredients or spices that are hard to find in commerce.
#7 Feeling creative?
A special gift is a gift you put your soul into. If you have a special talent, use it. Come up with a customize handmade photo album. Fill a box with small and inexpensive things. Things like these will work a very long way.
#8 Experience
When was the last time your loved one experienced something new? A DIY art kit can be great for kids, just like a man would love a toolbox.
#9 Planning in small details
Write down the major events of the year, like celebrations or reunions. This way, you can always hunt the right deal. Have you just found the perfect gift? So what if there is still half a year to the big day? Buy it now.
#10 Feeling useful
There are moments when it pays off to buy with practicality in mind. Make this decision according to your friends' needs. Someone who creates art can always use some quality materials. A garage crafting enthusiast will most likely appreciate a professional toolbox. Just make sure that they do not already have all these.
Image Credit: Discountrue
