Organized Quick Tip - Holiday Shopping

Pam wrote this post last year for the holidays. It's full of such great info we are sharing it with you again.

The holiday shopping season is upon us. Are you excited about shopping or are you dreading every moment?

Even if you don’t like shopping, going to the mall or a department store does not have to be the worse part of your day. Here's a few organization tips to make your next shopping trip a little less dreadful.

1.Start with a list of gift ideas – be specific and write them down (not just in your head), it will help you not deviate from your plan

2.Create a budget – research gift items on line, print coupons, and write a price range next to the gift item

3.Look online for the mall/store directory – viewing the maps and knowing where the stores/departments are located will help you determine where to park, what door to enter/exit through, and where to get a snack :). Even though you are there to shop for others, buy yourself a treat (I like caramel corn)

4.Dress comfortably – especially shoes (if you are shopping with someone else make sure they have on comfortable shoe as well)

5.When you arrive, park in a well lit area, lock your car, and consult the in-store directory and posted signs to confirm the location of where you shop (pull out your list and make note of location next to gift item)

Take a deep breath, get a snack, don't forget to pick up something for yourself, and have fun!

If you are indecisive, a procrastinator, or hate shopping all together:

•Do all of the above and go to the mall/store 90 minutes before it closes and in the middle of the week, there will be fewer shoppers - be patient! If you shop late stores will be a little messier and retail staff may be a little crabbier (being calm makes thing a little more manageable)

•Have a hands free experience – carry a small purse with essentials or use an over the should bag so you don’t have to juggle multiple things in your hands

•Listen to your favorite music with a MP3 player or iPod

Want stress free shopping? Shop online.  Visit Etsy or Artfire.com for a wonderful collection of handmade and vintage gift ideas.  Don't forget to check each shop for shipping deadlines to ensure you receive your gifts before the holidays.

As much as I like to lollygag and window shop there are times when I need to be efficient and being prepared with an organized plan is always very helpful.

Do you enjoy shopping and the crowds or do you dread hitting the mall?