I’m pleased to announce I’m almost done with my Christmas shopping for the year. Uh huh, that’s right, before Black Friday.
I was excessively dorky about it this year (read: spreadsheets), but it seems to be worth it. Here are my tips for the season:
- Join mailing lists. Sure, the extra emails can be a burden, but after the holidays, simply unsubscribe. Now, benefit from special sale announcements and printable coupons. At Pier 1 this weekend, I was able to save 20% on my purchase.
- Shop Kohls. My sister turned me onto this bargain superstore last year, and its greatness continues. Some of my favorite purchases have been bedding ($35 flannel sheet set) and inexpensive cashmere sweaters. Wednesdays are often Kohls’ biggest sale days, so stay alert.
- Amazon.com. I think I preach this every year, but you really can’t beat the pricing (as much as I love hanging out at Barnes & Noble, it’s hard for me to make a purchase when I know I can get a much cheaper deal online). Also, if you’re a frequent book/cd/dvd buyer, sign up for Amazon Prime, which, for $79/year gets you free 2-day shipping on most items and $3.99 overnight shipping. Plus, they even sell groceries now, for cryin’ out loud.
- Local spots. I’m going to finish off my sister’s and stepmother’s gifts at Lola’s Day Spa. Keri loves Bare Escentuals; Julie appreciates the cute accessories. I might grab my uncles some hot sauce at Belches N Burps, and I’m sure I’ll spread some love with some downtown restaurant gift certificates.
