Christmas. There, I said it!
I’ve been tiptoeing around the subject for a few weeks now, especially seeing as every year it seems to be thrust upon us earlier and earlier. However as I’m one of these uber organised folk that’s ready with the shopping list the moment Halloween is behind us.
This time of year seems to flick a switch in even the most forgiving of shopper. I’m personally not a fan of risking my life for the latest Disney doll or £10 off a light up toaster… all whilst news crews circle in a chopper above the parking lot reporting on the injury count. Yet every year we brave the hoards of high street shoppers in search of that perfect pressie as we prepare to get trodden on, elbowed and bled dry of our monthly earnings.
Thankfully if you’re on top of your game it really doesn’t have to be as stressful as rumour has it. In fact if you play your Christmas cards right you might actually find yourself having a jolly good time of it – unlikely I agree, but hey, I’m being optimistic for once!
So for those of you preparing to brave the crowds here’s my 10 top tips on how to turn the festive frenzy into tidings of comfort & joy…
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Wandering around aimlessly searching for Christmas gift inspiration can be stressful & tedious. Rather than shopping blindly, curl up with a note pad and jot down everyone you plan on buying for first. Think of their personalities, interests, hobbies etc. and go from there. Alternatively nab a few high street catalogues or pop online and I’ll guarantee your gift buying juices will flow. If you’re still struggling check out Not On The High Street, which is crammed full of unique little gift ideas from some of the UK’s best creative businesses!
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Keep in mind that evenings and weekends are peak times for big spenders so it’s no surprise that this comes with a mass of queues & disgruntled shoppers. If possible save yourself the hassle and schedule your trip for an early week morning, whilst others are busy at work or school you’ll be sure to find the space you need to browse the shelves without risking a bruised rib or trampled toe.
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Last year I witnessed at least 4 major falls from girls slipping or tripping as a result of tottering around in six inch stilettos. Gear up with your comfiest shoes, a cosy jacket that is light enough to pop in a bag should you begin to wilt and a practical handbag that is easily slung over the shoulder – leaving your hands free to grab those bargains.
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It may be the season of goodwill but a high street full of handbags is a winter wonderland for sticky fingered thieves. Don’t be tempted to carry large amounts of cash, keep valuables at home and if you’re leaving bags of shopping in your car make sure they’re stored out of sight. Seems like common sense but it’s amazing how many shoppers just don’t get it – not everyone is as honest as you are!
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If you’re pushed for time or prefer an organised approach to shopping why not opt for reservation instead? Many of the major retailers offer a service to collect your gifts in store that have been pre-ordered online… which is perfect for those who are doomed to miss delivery vans or may want to check sizing. This saves a whole lotta time and energy by allowing you to browse peacefully from the comfort of your own sofa/office chair/loo *delete as appropriate*
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If the thought of stepping out into the harsh winter weather whilst laden with bags is too much for you to comprehend or you have a work schedule that’s busier than Rudolf’s come Christmas Eve, then sticking to ordering your goodies online is probably the best stress-free solution to your quandary. However to avoid a delivery dilemma why not ask a relative or friend if they would mind your goodies arriving at their abode instead? That way all you have to do is call in and collect on your way home without any worry.
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Okay, so it might get a reputation of being a haven for bored housewives but there are actually quite a few nifty little items to be found on the shopping channels these days. Plus anything you see is tirelessly demonstrated, so if your Dad’s scratching his cranium over the new coffee machine you bought him, chances are you’ll probably be able to work it better than any budding Barista – all thanks to the 20 minute sales pitch you endured.
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Don’t forget to check out voucher sites such as Wowcher & Groupon as some of the offers are pretty darn impressive compared to the retail value elsewhere. Keep an eye out for high street deals such as ‘three for the price of two’ and check out Money Saving Expert for lots of really useful money saving tips, advice and voucher codes to help keep more pennies in your pocket.
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Needless to say when most of us think of Christmas Shopping we immediately think of huge glitzy department stores, personal shoppers and gift wrapping services, when in fact there is a multitude of wonderful little shops and businesses out there that provide an outstanding level of service and selection of goods that can’t be found on the shelves of their corporate counter-parts. By supporting local businesses you’re keeping the essence of your town alive and helping a small business stay trading!
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Reminding yourself you’re NOT a machine (or one of Santa’s highly trained little Elves) is easier said than done. Often we hit the high street with a the aim of dashing around getting as much done in as little as time as possible. However, unless you’re one hour from close of business on Christmas eve just sloooow down.
You may think you’re doing yourself a favour rushing around like a bee with a burnt ass but in fact you’re wasting hoards of precious energy, getting flustered & more than likely missing out on all the juicy bargains in the process. Taking a 30 minute break to catch a coffee (and your breath) is imperative to recharging the batteries & getting mentally prepared for the final shopping furlong.
Don’t forget: it’s easy to get carried away with all the hype in the run up to shopping for the big day but it’s important for each of us to keep in mind the reason for the season. As stock runs low & tempers flair, remembering the person behind the counter is indeed a human being with feelings is much appreciated in the world of retail. If something does go wrong, often staying calm can yield better results than waving the arms about like a distressed windmill. Keep it cool & you’ll merrily avoid a seasonal meltdown & possibly with the help of a kind hearted sales assitant!
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If you have any top tips on keeping stress levels under wraps this Christmas or would like to share how you tackle your festive shopping I’d love to read about it in the comments below. As always, thanks so much for stopping by, wishing y’all a fabulous weekend ahead 🙂
Cheerio chums…
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