How to shop smarter this Christmas
I won’t even mention how many Fridays, or Mondays, or shopping hours are left until Christmas. We all know the answer – not enough!
Ok, so accepting that we can’t slow down the runaway train that is the festive season, how can we at least ease the pain of Christmas shopping?
I’m glad you asked, here are my tips …
Write a list. Work out exactly who you need to buy gifts for.
Set a budget. This will save you breaking the bank if you get carried away with the whole shopping thing.
Don’t be afraid. Ask people what they want (yes, it’s ok!).
Start buying gifts now. All the best gifts and items are in the shops now. This will help spread the cost. As well it can help prevent last minute buying, which can blow the budget big time.
Shop smart. Consider who you are POSTING gifts to, and aim for gift vouchers, clothes and other light items that are cheaper and easier to post.
Set a limit. If you have a large family, set a limit on how much family members should spend on gifts.
Consider a Secret Santa. If you have a huge family, consider a present swap or Secret Santa. Spending more on fewer presents keeps everyone happy!
Buy extra presents: There is ALWAYS somebody else; a client, colleague or surprise visitor on Christmas day! Chocolates, wines or gift vouchers in a pretty bag work well.
Wrap as you go. Buy all your wrapping materials first and wrap gifts as you buy them (for many this may save you spending Christmas eve surrounded by wrapping paper!!). Just remember to write a gift tag, so you know who’s gift belongs to who.
Think of the details. And most importantly, don’t forget to buy different wrapping paper for those gifts from a special Christmas person (wink wink).
If you just don’t have the time to get your Christmas shopping done without losing your sanity, why not consider outsourcing it? Quintillion Concierge can do all of your shopping gift wrapping and even arrange delivery for you, with as little or as much direction as you have the time for. If that sounds good to you, contact us to discuss this service personally.
Quintillion Concierge is an Adelaide-based personal concierge and virtual assistance service. To find out how we can assist you visit quintillionconcierge.com.au or call 0455 300 636.