Lack of Time = Crappy Christmas Presents?
Posted on December 12, 2007 by Him and tagged gifts
With all of the commitments that I have this holiday season, from long hours at work to doing long homework assignments for school to volunteering, I've come to the realization that Christmas is rapidly approaching. Usually by this time of year I've completed my Christmas shopping by getting the people on my list thoughtful, locally sold gifts.
As Christmas approaches, I'm realizing that my commitments aren't likely to die down that much, or are going to be replaced with other duties such as getting the apartment ready for family who will be staying with us for the holiday. I've done the goofy-clueless-guy-Christmas-shopping-on-Christmas-eve thing, and it wasn't fun picking through the leftovers to give as gifts.
How have you managed your holiday craziness? Any tips for last minute shopping ideas?
At least tell me it's not too late.
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alissabess | Dec 12, 2007
If you're a list person, make one so that you are focused while shopping. My boyfriend mocked my list until we finished all our shopping in one weekend. It also helped us stay within budget. Also consider food and experiences. For Christmas, I'm giving each of my siblings a pan of lasagna. The BF and I are going to a hockey game next weekend as one of our gift to each other.
MVP | Dec 12, 2007
Time management is key. I make a to-do list (mail Xmas cards, buy gifts, wrap gifts, etc) and put them in order of urgency. Then I force myself to take advantage of every spare moment to get things done - even if it means running to the post office on my lunch hour or staying up late so I can get packages into the mail the next day.
For last-minute, meaningful gifts, try putting together gifts in a jar. They're very rewarding for the gift-giver and hopefully useful for the recipient. Just google "gifts in a jar" to see what I'm talking about. They're usually ingredients for a food item, layered in a jar, with a label telling the recipient how to make it. They do require some time and preparation (ingredients and packaging), but they're fun, frugal and you can usually kill several birds with one stone, i.e, get a lot of people's gifts done at once.
Amanda | Dec 13, 2007
I promise I'm unaffiliated, but I like Threadless.com for unique gifts for hipsters under 30 (or over.. my dad likes it too). The tees are designed by indie artists, they're printed in Chicago and they're limited edition. Also, they're $10 right now. I have four brothers and last year I gave them each a few t-shirts. They all loved them (and they could not be more different).
Also, I like etsy.com for handmade, unique gifts. They're not all locally made, but they're crazy unique.
Amanda | Dec 13, 2007 | Reply to Amanda
oh wait... you're IN Chicago. they have their only physical store there.
Him | Dec 13, 2007 | Reply to Amanda
Amanda - I actually really love Threadless and wear their shirts all the time. I've actually been to their actual warehouse to pick up shirts so that I wouldn't have to pay shipping; their warehouse is less than a mile from our apartment.
I haven't been to their store yet, more because of laziness than anything. Thanks for the comment!
Laura | Dec 13, 2007
One thought that may help you - many of the stores here in NYC are already on holiday hours. Meaning they are opening at 7 or 8am. Maybe try and get in some shopping before work each day? Not very crowded so - with a list - you could be effective.
And - online shopping!! Since it's already 12/13, you may wind up paying some higher shipping fees than if you had done it earlier but this may be the most time-efficient way to get it done. Good luck & happy holidays!
Frugal Duchess | Dec 12, 2007
What about DIY gift baskets?
1) movie basket: container of popcorn, candy and a few movies from the sale rack of blockbutser, ebay
2) coffee basket: great beans, pretty mugs, gourmet teas & fancy treats?
I empathize. I started a graduate degree program and my days are consumed with writing papers and reading texts.
Take Care
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