 | Hillary Houston, 2005 PSU graduate, MBA program. Resides in Frontenac with my two boys Logan and Peyton. Employed with New Hope Services since 2008 as the Assistant Program Director. |
Community Events
2012-11-19 11:34:41
How can I get my Christmas shopping done quickly?
Q- I always put off my holiday shopping until the last minute-- partly because I really hate shopping and partly because most of those on my list are sisters, aunts, and nieces and I have no idea what to get any of them. Do you have any ideas that can help me get this done quickly and painlessly, and still give them something they would actually like?
A- Yes, I have an idea that will keep you from wandering the malls and will let you come away with wonderfully original gifts that will make you a holiday hero. Try your local boutiques. Boutiques offer a large array of gifts that you cannot find anywhere else, are high quality, and are always meaningful.
In a boutique, you can satisfy nearly everyone on your list. For example, for the guys, you could get custom screen-printed shirts (you could even design them yourself!), or find a great retro piece for their home or office. For the women, boutiques offer fabulous jewelry with many original hand made offerings. Look for the silver charms and other silver jewelry that is so popular right now. Also popular with women are the refurbished furniture pieces like the ones that you might see on Pinterest. When you get the pieces at the boutique, they can have the look they want without having to spend forever on a DIY project. For little girls, you could find fabulously frilly tutus that will have your nieces feeling like the most beautiful ballerinas in the world.
Even after your trip to the boutique, you still may have others on your list who are harder to buy for. The trick is to think outside the box. Another great place to find gifts with less hassle is the home improvement store. During the holiday season they often have traditional gifts like small appliances, and other gifts that you might not find in the department stores, like fountains, sundials, wind chimes, stepping stones, and of course specialty tools.
Good luck in your shopping and have a wonderful holiday season!
