ALT-1 Shopping Tips for last Minute Gifts
We have all been in this position before. A birthday, anniversary, or holiday that has crept up too soon and left us hanging with a gift decision. Feeling rushed makes it even harder to narrow in on the perfect gift, so here are a few tips to remember when buying a last minute gift.
1. Keep your giftee' in mind. If you are close to them then you know what they like or can never have too many of. This could be handbags, cigars, shoes. Wanting to get the latest present or something unique will take too much time.
2. Think Simple. This means getting a generic gift that you know anybody would love. A simple list to follow: jewelry, chocolates, money.
3. DO NOT pick a store that has plenty of different options. This means the Mall or stores like Target/Walmart. Normally you would think this to be the best idea because you have more to choose from. But this more likely means second guessing or running around and debating over electronics or clothes, which again takes too much time. Instead, head straight for Bath and Body Works or Old Navy, stores with a limited range of products.
4. Set a budget. Know how much you are willing to spend, so that you can easily negate items that are too much or too cheap.
5. Gift cards/certificates. For the biggest time crunches gift cards are ideal because you can spend exactly what you want and don't have to waste time shopping or wrapping. Pick a favorite store or something general like movie tickets or a good restaurant.
Gift wrapping is another pain, so instead of buying wrapping or ribbon then hassling with it buy a gift bag and tissue paper. Although these gifts may not have a personal touch they work in a bind and wont leave you feeling guilty. Just add a little extra to the next gift.
