Holiday Stress Tips - Shop Online

Last year I was able to complete 98% of my holiday shopping in approximately one hour. The presents were gift wrapped and all! By shopping online you have the added benefit of being able to comparison shop quickly and many retailers offer free shipping during the holiday season. There is one catch though...don't wait until the last minute. Try to give yourself 20 to 30 days to ensure that your presents arrive on time and under the tree. We're trying to avoid stress right?

How Do We Begin?

Start out by compiling a list which will include all the names of the people you're shopping for. Next, list each person's hobbies or interests as well as any items you may have heard them mention or know they would like. This list will continue to build until you have several options to choose from under each person. This is great because it gives you options as well as the the flexibility to choose what you want to buy. Find out what your other friends or relatives are getting for the names on your list so that you can avoid the dreaded “double gifting.”

Law of Reciprocity

Don't fall pray to the Law of Reciprocity which states that when we get something (a gift perhaps) from someone we want to give something back of equal or greater value.

Don't buy expensive gifts for people just because they may get you something. If you worry that you may have forgotten someone, you can purchase a few small, “spare” gifts. These gifts can be used for that moment when someone you weren't expecting a gift from hands you a present and you want to be able to give them a gift back. In the past, I have bought beer and liquors to keep on hand, or even gift cards as these work for almost anyone.

Remember Why We Do It

Remember that a gift is simply a token and doesn't need to represent the receiver's value. Buy only what you can afford. Shop safe.

We wish you great happiness this season and a stress free holiday.

Happy Holidays,

Chris & Erica Stauffer

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