December is supposed to be the time of holiday cheer. Yet, so often we get stressed out when it comes to holiday shopping. Stores are crowded, kids are nagging for that "must-have" new toy or electronic gadget, not to mention teachers' gifts, something for BFF who has everything but insists on upholding the gift exchange you've been doing since you shared a university dorm, then there's finding that special something for the love of your life.
And as if you weren't stretched enough, your social calendar is probably jam-packed and you're expected to look like a million bucks too!
Here are some tips to help make life easier not just this month but all year round:
Make a list in advance
When you make a list in advance and stick to it, you'll reduce the risk of impulse buying and cut down on browsing time.
Shop online
Browse, research, comparison shop and find unique gifts all from the comfort of your own keyboard. It's easy to look for the best deals. With the strong Canadian dollar, consider cross-border shopping. Look for retailers who offer deals on shipping and free gift wrapping too. No need to drag the kids along or go out in public to an over-crowded mall (especially if you're concerned about H1N1 and/or tending to a sick child or have the flu yourself.) Two of my personal favorites are Mastermind and Indigo.
Visit online review communities to find the best deals
Check out sites like Red Flag Deals, Wishabi, ChickAdvisor, and Shoptoit for customer reviews and deals. Sites like BargainMoose and SmartCanucks share coupons too. You'll also learn which stores offer the best return policies and customer service. Looking for unique gifts? Follow shopping and lifestyle blogs for great gift ideas and where to find them. Check out sites like Etsy and ArtFire where you can by handmade items directly from the artisans.
Buy teachers' gifts as a class
Get together with other parents and pool your money together so you can buy a group gift. Gift certificates from a local bookstore or mall allow your child's teacher to choose something she'll enjoy. How many candles, soaps and mugs can one person own, seriously?
Watch for online giveaways
There are lots of great giveaways on blogs, Twitter and community sites including YummyMummyClub. With a relatively small community (group of readers) compared to traditional media, the chances of winning are pretty good.
Donate to a favourite charity in someone's honour
These days, pretty much every charity accepts donations online - it's quick and easy and with a minimum donation, you'll get a tax receipt too. I recently heard of a family that decided they would skip the adult Christmas gifts this year. Instead, they selected one charity and made a donation on behalf of their family.
Okay so maybe this may not be as much fun as unwrapping presents but it feels wonderful to do something for others less fortunate while cutting down unnecessary gifts that would otherwise clutter your home.
What do you do to help cut down shopping stress and manage spending this time of year?
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