Let’s begin, with a later Thanksgiving this year, many people are already feeling a tad behind on their holiday gift list. Shopping in Central Wisconsin can be a bit tricky. There is a limited number of stores in the immediate area so if you’re going shopping, you need to plan ahead. Making holiday shopping quick and stress-free is a lot easier then you think.
Where to start:
1. MAKE A LIST
If you haven’t made a list yet, I suggest you get on it. Knowing what you want to get everybody on your list can be difficult, however, brainstorm as many ideas as you can. The list will help you figure out exactly what you need and where you need to go to get it.
2. RESEARCH
After making your list and checking it twice, it’s time to scour the web. Why go to a crowded store when you don’t have to leave the couch? However, there are some items that you may need to go to the store to get. For example, electronic items are more likely to be on sale this time of year. Many stores will throw in extra items or gift cards for buying a popular item with them. The Sunday newspaper can really help you narrow down your selection, so keep your eyes peeled when you are looking at this Sunday’s edition of the Stevens Point Journal or Wausau Daily Herald.
3. SHOP DURING THE WEEK
Beware of shopping on the weekends. Any type of mall environment on the weekend during the holiday season is crazy, and I suggest you stay far away in order to keep your sanity. If you don’t have time to go shopping in the morning or afternoon during the weekday’s, go at night, many store’s even have extended hours this time of year.
4. SHOP LOCAL
There are so many small businesses in central Wisconsin that offer great gifts. Think about that little book store or boutique in your local downtown area. The Clay Corner Studio in Stevens Point offers a wide array of pottery items that you can paint yourself. The staff there is wonderful and can really help you with whatever project you are working on.
Check out this Vine from Clay’s Corner: https://vine.co/v/hx6eiQxtZ3v
5. GIFT BASKETS
Do not underestimate the power of giving somebody an awesome gift basket. It’s really simple and looks like you put a lot of time and effort into creating it. Here’s a hint, you can get pretty much all the supplies to make the gift basket at your local dollar store. What do you fill the basket with? Easy. Get some wine, a gift card, chocolate, movies, cozy socks, really anything you can get at Walmart or Target. People love gift baskets, trust me.