Not everyone can do all their shopping ahead. Sometimes a lot of things get in the way, like an unexpected project at work or a family crisis. Nevertheless, Christmas is just around the corner and it definitely can't be avoided. Below are some last-minute Christmas shopping tips that will help you cross out your list.
Nothing Beats Utility
If you must get something, then make it useful in general. Now that might sound like a tall order but you don't realize how a small thing can actually make a big difference to someone. Why not go to your hardware store and get something practical? It might not be the most unique or original gift under your friends' Christmas tree but if they get to use it, then it makes it all worthwhile. Some examples are: silicone bake ware, jelly molds, spatula sets, ice trays and table ware, sports fans, portable sports chairs, water bottles, coolers, emergency kits that include flash lights and whistles, storage boxes and handy tools.
Jams, Preserves, Spreads
You might have crossed out food from your list because of possible spoilage. But that doesn't apply when it comes to food that come in jars. Those are meant to last several seasons. Whether you're giving to a female or male friend or even a family, they'll appreciate something that will go into their pantry. Why not get something that's not easy to find? Pick a fruit from your home town or get something that's good for special occasions.
Feed Their Minds
If you need to give something generic, why not a good self-development book? People encounter a lot of negativity throughout the year, they'll find it refreshing to get positive, enlightening and uplifting words. Support a local author or get good books from leadership gurus like John Maxwell, inspirational books by Jack Canfield, or classics like Dale Carnegie's How To Win Friends and Influence People and Norman Vincent Peale's The Power of Positive Thinking. What's great is you have a choice of both print and eBooks nowadays. So, check how many people have tablets so you don't need to give them a print copy.
Bag It
Whether it's for travel, for sports, hitting the gym, or just being mobile, anyone would appreciate a shoe bag, a reusable eco-friendly shopping bag, book bags, undergarment bag or wet clothing bag. What's nice is you'll always need one no matter how many you already have. So, if you have to go generic, go for something that will be practical and reusable.
Go Eco Friendly
One of the best things to give away could also be your stand on being environmentally friendly. Apart from the reusable eco bags mentioned in the Bag It category, you could also get: reusable batteries, local organic items from an eco friendly store, solar chargers, compost bins, hand powered flashlights, frames made from recycled materials, organic produce like coffee and tea, biodegradable all purpose cleaners, items made from bamboo (since these are more sustainable versus wood).
If you are in a hurry and need to get "generic" gifts, don't despair. Pick one of the themes above and you won't have to worry. Once you've chosen a theme, you will only have to visit one store to buy all your gifts whether they are practical items from a hardware store, jams or preserves from a grocery, inspirational books from your favorite bookstore (or eBookstore), bags or storage solutions from a department store or eco friendly treats from your local eco friendly store. Enjoy the holidays and be stress free!
Justine Tajonera - Justine Tajonera is married with two children. She is a writer and poet by vocation, used to be web editor and is currently a mobile ...
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