I cannot even believe it is already Thanksgiving-where did the time go this year? With the holiday season now officially underway- be honest- do you ever feel stressed out this time of year? Does the thought of shopping, selecting the perfect gifts, and wrapping everything for family and friends sound like an overwhelming task? Here are a few tips and strategies to help make this year’s shopping and gift-giving a little easier…

1. Make a list-

Make a list of everyone you need to give a gift to.  There are all the “usual suspects” like family members and close friends, but don’t forget people you encounter on a regular basis like teachers, service providers, neighbors, co-workers, and bosses!

2. Set an overall budget-

To avoid overspending and a massive credit card bill in January- decide BEFORE holiday shopping exactly how much you can spend on all the gifts this year!

 3. Set individual budgets for each person on your list-

Family members and close friends will receive the majority of your budget, but don’t forget to budget for all the others on your list.

4. Consider “batch” gifts-

With this strategy, everyone on your list gets the same thing- this idea works well for non-family members. Examples of “batch” gifts include: wrapped homemade baked goods or food items, ornaments, books, coffee, and candles- these items are usually enjoyed by everyone and will simplify your shopping.

5. Consider online shopping for all your holiday gifts-

With large online retailers like Amazon, it’s easy to find almost everything on your list, just be sure to check that your delivery dates are BEFORE Christmas- LOL! Amazon also offers gift wrapping and free delivery if you are a Prime member so that makes it super easy to ship your gifts!

6. Consider “one-stop shopping”-

If you are super crunched for time, why not challenge yourself to find everyone on your list something at one shop?   Large retailers like Costco, Sam’s Club, Target, and Walmart carry such a variety of items, you are sure to find something for everyone on your list.

7. Consider shopping at small local shops-

If “shopping big” or online isn’t your thing, support your community by shopping at local “mom and pop” stores or holiday gift markets- you will likely find more unique special gifts for those special people on your list and you can feel good about encouraging local businesses!

8. Consider giving “non-material” gifts-

Items like concert or sports tickets, annual passes to a local theme park, airline tickets or vouchers for travel…or maybe select a subscription to a magazine or “wine of the month” club make fabulous gifts and are always a fun surprise!

9. Consider giving “memories”-

Select a special photo and have it framed, or maybe convert old home movies to a DVD, or print photo gifts like calendars, mugs, or home décor. Websites like Snapfish or Shutterfly offer a wonderful selection of photo gifts this time of year.

10. Create a wrapping station-

To simplify your holiday gift wrapping, set up a small wrapping station in your home, so you can easily wrap all your gifts as you get them…gather together all the materials needed  (papers, gift bags, tissue paper, scissors, tape, ribbons,  bows, and tags) this will prevent you from dashing around looking for all your supplies!

I hope these shopping and gift ideas will help simplify your holidays a little, one last tip: if you REALLY want to keep things simple, a gift card or cash is always welcome- just make it special by giving it in a pretty card with a heartfelt note or greeting! 

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