Your Guide to Stress-Free Holiday Shopping
It’s that time of year again where we all buckle down, grit our teeth, and fire up our Amazon apps to ensure a Holiday Season full of joy for our loved ones. Every year it seems to come earlier and earlier. With prices having risen on practically everything, a reminder of how to navigate holiday shopping seemed to be a good idea. Though often easier said than done, a holiday budget and a spending limit on gifts may help you save this year. Be aware of how much you are putting on credit cards and try to avoid overspending.
Making a gift for a loved one may help save money and add to the sentimentality of the gift itself. Look out for deals that are too good to be true and sites that may try to farm your information. Be on high alert for scams and be aware of deals and offers that are not living up to the hype they generate. Take the time to research a deal and not be pressured to act on one that seems like a pie in the sky dream come true.
Often the pressure from a seller to act is a good sign that the deal may not be what it seems. The days of a pushy salesperson have evolved to include a flashy banner ad and a deal that “won’t last long!”. Also new to the game are marketplace and other social media driven offers that promise low cost or even no cost offers. These interactions can at times be dangerous and should be used with caution.
Be aware that viral TikTok deals, or financial tips may not be what they appear to be. I think back to my uncle living in NYC thinking he found a Cabbage Patch Doll for 20 dollars only to find a box with a very plain looking doll inside most definitely not from the official cabbage patch. Too good to be true is a very real thing and we should all be aware and alert to the deals around us.
Try to filter some of that “great deal” noise and perhaps focus on experiences or sharing time with loved ones. Give your friends and family the opportunity to share in group activities like a warm night in watching a movie and having hot chocolate and some popcorn.
The holidays are a time for sharing and caring. It can also be a time to save but be safe and keep your eyes open! Enjoy the Season and we wish you the best!