Christmas Gifts

 Christmas Tips

Some folks start their Christmas shopping in July while others wait until “black Friday” (the day after Thanksgiving). However, statistics show that a good number of people do not begin shopping for their Christmas gifts until a day or two before Christmas.

If you have never been to a mall or discount store on the day before Christmas, you are missing out.  Everyone should experience this at some point in their lives.  The chaos is unbelievable! 

Then again, if you are among the large number of people who wait till the last minute to purchase their Christmas gifts, you already knew that.

This is for you and here are some special Christmas tips for those brave souls.

Start Early.  Many stores will close early on the day before Christmas.  Taking into consideration traffic and crowds, choosing to shop late could leave you in a lurch and you may find yourself cruising magazines for last minute Christmas gift ideas or making your own Christmas gifts from whatever you have lying around the house (and you can't use dust bunnies from under the bed!).

Research.  Check store circulars for sales and specials before you leave.  Research publications like Ideals to get Christmas gift ideas and Christmas tips.

Plan.  Once you have gathered your Christmas tips and researched your places to shop, you need to map out your game plan.  Know where you are going and what you are going to buy there.  Also, be prepared to stand in line for forever and three days.

This three step strategy will get you through your last minute shopping virtually unscathed.  Just remember to keep a cool head, know your game plan and look forward that the eggnog you will enjoy when you get home.