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Seven Things Every Last-Minute Christmas Shopper Can Relate to This Season

Posted by Ava Kuhn on

It's the most wonderful time of the year! The happiest season of all is brimming with spirit and tradition. Stringing up twinkling lights, decorating gingerbread houses, and humming Christmas carols happen year after year. Another tried and true tradition? Realizing that you're a bit behind on your Santa shopping!

There's no need to stress over your schedule. For all of the last-minute buyers, we know what you're facing — and we've created a few solutions to help. Learn our most useful advice below and check out our 2021 Holiday Gift Guide for extra ideas!

1. Forgetting Someone 

The first step: making a list (and checking it twice). Take a few extra minutes before you begin your shopping search to think of everyone that you need to buy gifts for this year. Doing so ahead of time can help prevent a forgotten gift!

2. Not Being Able to Find the Perfect Gift 

Do some sleuthing to figure out what you should give. Social media can clue you in on your recipient's interests and hobbies. Browse through online holiday gift guides to get some more ideas on the perfect pick!

3. Running Out of Time

Most websites offer express shipping options just for situations like your own. Two-day or overnight shipping can solve it all! Be sure to look into the company's specific holiday policies to ensure that your item really will be arriving on time. 

4. Really Running Out of Time

When overnight shipping just won't do the trick, shop online for items that are available to pick up in store. Another benefit of this route is seeing all of your options ahead of time and being able to reserve that perfect gift you know your recipient will love. After one quick trip to the store, you'll be back to enjoying the season's festivities in no time. 

5. Trying to Shop for the Person Who Has Everything

Make meaningful memories by giving the gift of an experience. For the person you know who's always on the go, explore what event options they would enjoy. Buy a pass for a food tour and include it in a picnic basket, reserve a spot on a city tour and attach it to a amusing souvenir, or purchase a cooking class course and tuck the ticket into a fun apron.

6. Wrapping It All Up

It's all in the presentation — avoid those crumples of creased edges and bunches of double-sided tape altogether by checking out in-store gift wrapping (some shops offer this service for no additional charge). There's just something about a pretty package that captures all of the magic. Save yourself a step and let someone else lend a hand!

7. Still Not Being Sure of What to Give

If you're still seeking out the right item at the end of the day, a Gift Card or an E-Gift Card to favorite places are always a sure win. Whether it's their most-visited restaurant, their new hobby or a life-long interest, your recipient is sure to put your gift to good use. You can also look into GiftNow®, a service that lets you select a gift and have it delivered right to your recipient — while they have the option to adjust or exchange so that it really is exactly what they want. 
#VeraBradley