One last full weekend of Christmas shopping left
Posted December 16, 2016 7:40 am.
Last Updated December 16, 2016 7:45 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – It’s not quite time to hit the panic button just yet, but this is the last full weekend to finish your holiday shopping before Christmas. However, crossing those final to-do items off your list doesn’t have to be painful.
Take a deep breath says personal shopper Jen Garces who adds there doesn’t have to be chaos. “The first thing to remember is that it’s not too late but it’s definitely a good time to shop smart,” says Garces, Your Everyday Stylist.
Meaning take a specific list with you. “Avoid going in if you don’t have a plan. So if you’re going in and just winging it, you need a lot of time, it’s going to compound the stress because you are going be dealing with crowds and a lot of people. If you can, spend a little time before you head out, do it,” explains Garces.
She adds if you don’t have something in mind, go with a person’s likes. “You know a store that the person you’re shopping for really likes but you don’t necessarily know what to get at that store, a lot of stores have gift cards,” says Garces.
“Try and think outside the box. If there’s a restaurant you know they really like going to [then consider a gift card.] Whether you’re buying them tickets to the theatre or an upcoming concert, or a membership to the Vancouver Art Gallery or Grouse Mountain if they’re more outdoorsy.”
Garces says getting tickets to a show or an event is also a good idea.
She says try and take advantage of extended hours and get to the mall first thing in the morning or during lunch, that’s also when you can get some online shopping done.
“You’re going to find less crowds first thing in the morning. If you’re still working leading up to Christmas, getting the shopping done even before you go to the office can happen. That’s definitely helpful,” says Garces.
