The holidays are often stressful, especially when you want to buy the perfect gift for everyone who means something to you, from your close family members to your coworkers and even your newspaper delivery person.
These are tough decisions to make. How much do you spend? How do you find the best gift but at a price you can afford?
Ignore the advertising hype
If you watch the morning talk shows during the holiday season, you’ll find all sorts of television segments about the hottest toys and gadgets of the season. Don’t buy into the hype. Think about the person you are buying for. Would he or she truly enjoy that gift or are you caving to the media pressure?
Brainstorm gift ideas
Think about the person’s interests and hobbies. Does she enjoy sports? Does he like to read? This will give you a better sense of what to shop for.
Ask family and friends
If you’re unsure of what type of gift to give someone, ask their close family members and friends. If you’re purchasing gifts for children, such as a niece or nephew, it’s always a good idea to check with the parents first. You don’t want to buy a gift that they have already bought, or buy a toy that may not be age appropriate for the child.
Think small
A gift doesn’t have to be grandiose or expensive, but one chosen from the heart. If the person you’re buying for enjoys winter walks, buy a new wool hat or pair of mittens. While new socks aren’t an exciting purchase, they may be well-received by the person who opened them.
Make your gifts
A homemade present can make someone feel special. If you knit or can your own salsa, these gifts are a kind way to show someone you took the time to make something just for them.
Allow for enough time
If you wait until after work on Christmas Eve to head to the local mall and buy a gift, you may be making a big mistake. Even if you know what item you want, the selection may be limited or sold out.
Shop online
Shopping online will be less stressful than fighting the holiday crowds and it will allow you to compare prices. If you decide to order gifts online, allow for plenty of time for the gifts to be delivered before Christmas.
When in doubt, buy a gift card
Gift cards may feel impersonal, but most people enjoy getting them because they can pick out their gifts themselves. It beats having to return unwanted gifts after Christmas, and your recipient can then take advantage of the after Christmas sales. A well-chosen card with cash will work in most circumstances, too.
Don’t forget the receipt
If you find yourself overwhelmed with gift giving this holiday season, take a deep breath, choose a gift you would like, and include the receipt in case they want to return it. If the gift isn’t what the person wanted, try not to take it personally. The thought does count.
