Yes, its that time of year again.
So, what’s your plan this year? Were you just going to leave it to the last minute again and compete with the rest of the country for the last few items on the shelves come Christmas Eve? I know that with this little guide you can help save yourself from a lot of stress this Holiday season so take a few minutes to read on.
1) Its always best to make a start with a list of people you want to buy presents for. Do not feel pressured into buying big gifts for everyone. As the old saying goes “it’s the thought that counts” so you can just buy small gifts for some people. Lots of family members come to an agreement prior to the Holidays not to exchange gifts. If money is a bit tight for you this year, then maybe you should consider this option.
2) Work out your budget. How much do you want to spend in total these Holidays on gifts? Do not forget things like wrapping paper and cards. Take that figure and divide it into amounts you would like to spend on each person on your list.
3) Be strict with your budget! I’ve made this a separate point as its so easy to get carried away when you are in the shops and spend much more than you intended on your Holiday presents. I know as I’ve been there myself.
4) To make your Holiday gifts a success it’s always best to ask the main people you will be spending money on, what they would actually like. Likewise make a list of things you would like to receive so you can give people options of things to buy you.
5) Thanks to the convenience of the internet you can now buy many of your Holiday presents online. This can save time, effort, and money. You might not find certain gifts on the internet, but its always a good starting point.
6) Now the hardest bit. Going to the shops especially now, with all those pandemic restrictions. Some people may enjoy this, but many find the Holiday shopping experience a nightmare. Going early is the keyword. Also go early in the morning. You will beat the main crowds if you can be in the shops when they just open then be home for lunch.
So, all that is left now is just to wrap those gifts and enjoy the Holidays. Oh! And one last tip. If you can get shopping done during Boxing Day and January sales, this is a great time to buy everything for the next season.
Happy Holidays!
