Holiday Drop Time to Shop

Words by Lifestyle Staff

Holiday shopping can be stressful. With a little planning, you can enjoy it again. Your smooth holiday shopping season awaits, now that you’re armed with these tips!

MAKING A LIST

Create a list of all the people you need to buy gifts for, jot down some ideas for each person, and plan your stops. You’ll stay organized and focused.

EARLY BIRD

Begin your holiday shopping as early as possible and during off-peak hours. By avoiding the last-minute rush, crowds, and long wait times, you’ll also steer clear of the stress that comes with it.

SUPPORT SMALL

Shopping local mom and pop shops can be a more relaxed and communityoriented shopping experience. Their staff can help you with gift ideas and may offer gift wrapping, as well.

LET THEM SHOP

If you’re unsure what to buy, consider giving gift cards. They are convenient and allow the recipient to choose their gift.

GIVE BACK

For the person who has everything, consider giving to a charity in their honor. Giving Tuesday is November 28 and is a great time to support a cause close to their heart.

WRAP AS YOU GO

Avoid a last-minute wrapping frenzy by wrapping gifts as you purchase them. (Just don’t forget to label the gifts!) This will spread out the task over time and give you a little breathing room.

BACK-UP PLAN

Consider keeping multiples of essential gifts on hand so you have something for last-minute gifting needs for a host or work party.

IT TAKES A TEAM

Don’t feel like you need to do all of the shopping on your own. Delegate shopping tasks by enlisting help from family to share the load.

REMEMBER

The holidays should be a time for joy and togetherness. Don’t let the stress of the shopping overshadow the true spirit of the season.