Photo by: Alice J-T

Have a Plan

1. Make a list of the people you still have to buy gifts for.
2. Set a budget for each gift.
3. Buy a paper and check the ads for special sales, and check Deal News for internet specials.
4. Plan a time to get it done!

Last Minute Gift Choices

Gift Cards are a great last minute gift choice and they can be purchased at many drug and grocery stores. Pick something that you know they like such as a favorite restaurant, itunes or specialty store. CAUTION: Do not buy gift cards for retailers who are closing some or all of their stores.

Order magazine subscriptions on line. This is the perfect opportunity to have them reading something they will really enjoy such as Cooking Light, Consumer Reports, or Golf Digest. Buy the current magazine in the store, wrap it up, and attach a note saying they will be enjoying 12 more.

Food and drinks. Think of “splurges” that someone would not indulge in themselves but would truly enjoy, such as a case of wine, gourmet cheese or fine chocolate. You will not have to make your way through a busy mall for this.

Give the Gift of Yourself. Create “coupons” for services you can provide in the weeks to come, such as babysitting, car repairs, handyman, and home cleaning. Just be careful you don’t promise what you cannot deliver!

Photo by: dave patten

Places to Shop Last Minute

Shop Online. Here you will not have to fight the crowds and some retailers will gift-wrap, provide free shipping and you may not have to pay sales tax. Check shipping and make sure the gift will arrive before Christmas.

Discount stores. Here you will find everything from designer shoes and gourmet chocolate to linens and fragrance at a fraction of mall prices.

Shop in Off-Peak Hours. Check the hours for Target and Wal-Mart. They may provide late shopping by being open until midnight or even all night. Here you will find many gift choices and you can go late at night when you will not have to fight the crowds and long lines.

Grocery and Drug Stores. Check out the gift choices while you are picking up groceries or prescriptions. Don’t forget to get gift cards while you are here.

So there is no need to panic! With a few minutes of planning, your last minute Christmas shopping will be productive and stress free!

Free Shipping Day

Thursday December 18 is Free Shipping Day for many retailers. It’s the last opportunity to get those gifts for everyone on your list and when you order online, shipping is free!