By Venisa Wallace, Staff Writer
Christmas is not about giving presents; it is a holiday of love.
The giving and receiving of presents is solely used as an expression of this love. Therefore, presents should be personal and creative. Many people have left Christmas shopping until the last minute, when items may become costly and time seems brief. However, last minute presents do not have to be impersonal or costly. The advantages of Cyber Monday and Black Friday sales are gone near Christmas, but remember that Christmas is more about caring than giving. Here are a few ideas that one can use if unsure of what to get a loved one, or if one waited till the last minute to think of a gift:
1) Give more than just a gift:
Christmas has been commercialized over the years. Santa Clause seems more of a sales promoter than a nice old man giving gifts to deserving children. However, gifts do not have to be store bought; after all, it is the thought that counts. With this said, a gift may simply be spending time with an old friend, or inviting someone along to help at a charity home. Give something more than a gift this Christmas; give time and love. Nothing comes close to time well spent with someone one cares about.
2) Be innovative, make something:
Yes, it may seem elementary to give loved ones homemade presents, but one can put a twist to this old trick. Instead of making popsicle picture frames, one can make a gift basket, stuffed with loved one’s favorite items. Not only is this easy, it is also inexpensive and makes a great last minute present. Moreover, a personally made basket is thoughtful and the items may be bought at a CVS store or a close by WalMart shopping center.
3) Online shopping:
Online shopping is always an option that saves time and gas. Shopping online for gifts provides a vast amount of options. The downside to shopping online is that shipping may take some time. However, one may pay extra shipping fee costs to have the item sent via express mailing, which only takes one to two days to arrive at the specified location. Some online stores even have gift wrapping as a choice.
4) Gift Certificate:
Gift certificates are a quick gift. A gift certificate for a favorite store or spa makes a thoughtful gift. Couple the coupon with a gift bag filled with candy or a greeting card. Gift cards may be purchased online or may be available at the store of choice.
5) Going to the mall last minute:
If one does decide to go out to the mall the week before Christmas or a couple days before, be prepared for the Christmas stampede. A few tips that will make this experience less tedious and will prevent one from over-spending are:
- Make a list of the people one is going to buy presents for, and if possible, think of what one might like before going to the mall. This should help to save time.
- Budget: figure out how much one wants to spend and spend no more than this amount.
- Browse the internet briefly before going to the mall. One might like something online, which will save one a trip to the mall.
- If the list is small or shopping for a specific item, then call stores to see if they have the item in stock before leaving home.
