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| [PHOTO: 401(K) 2012/CC BY-SA 2.0] |
New York: With the holidays just around the corner, there's still much
to be done. Shoppers plan to spend $848
on gifts this season, according to a report, and they're loading up on gifts for an average of eight people this
year. If you're like most, you started early, but you're still not there
yet. Chances are the last ones left on
your list are your closest friends and loved ones, because they're always the
hardest to buy for.
That's why New York Times bestselling author and lifestyle
expert Jill Martin is on hand to offer some tips for harried holiday shoppers.
From family to friends, and everything in between, Jill is
aces at stretching a budget, and finding the hottest items for everyone on the
list this year. Below, she outlines her
top four tips for breezing through the holiday crunch time:
Get something for your spend – Make sure that the money
you're spending on those holiday gifts is getting you something back--whether
it's points you can turn into great presents from gift cards to gadgets, miles
to travel or cash back for your money spent.
Protect your Purchase and Yourself – When you're making
purchases left and right to check off your holiday gift list, make sure you and
your purchases are protected. Use a card that protects you from fraud, damages,
and the need to make a return if the shirt you thought would fit your brother,
doesn't.
Practicality can be Chic – Consider what a friend or family
member needs in their home and daily lives - it may not seem like an exciting
gift, but it ensures that your gift will be well-used and appreciated. Even
something as practical as kitchen appliances come with bold design and
personality.
Give the Gift of Experience – Concerts, dinners, shows and
more! If you want to skip the malls all
together, give your loved ones tickets to their favorite band coming to town or
a gift card to the restaurant they've been meaning to try.
"The final stretch of the season can be crazed, but you
can still shop smart while still giving gifts that wow," says Martin.