Runako Designs - Shop smart this holiday

Well the holiday is coming and its coming fast. With the way the economy is right now, many of you, or us will have to spend our dollars wisely this year and in some cases, scale back on the Christmas lists. What's important though, is that you shop sales, and shop smart! No doubt there will be plenty of sales this year, to entice consumers to shop, but make sure you are smart and know when a bargain is really a bargain. Below are a few shopping tips as you get ready for the bombardment of sales that will be heading your way through the mail and internet in a couple of weeks:

Tip #1 - First plan a realistic budget. Know exactly what you can truly afford to spend this Holiday season. Don't create any credit card debt if you don't have to. Those people left off on your list this year will truly understand. Get your older kids to give you a list of their top three wishes. The younger kids probably wont miss a gift or two, they'll just be happy it's gift giving time.

Tip #2 - Next, carefully go through your list and cross through those extra gifts, you just can't afford to give this year (neighbors, teachers, co-workers, etc). Instead of giving them a gift, maybe send them a Holiday card or make a batch of cookies or candies for this group. If you have a inexpensive hobby, now is the time to take it up again. People love homemade gifts from the heart. Instead of gifting everyone in the office, make a batch of goodies for the office as a whole. They'll appreciate the effort, and trust me, they'll understand.

Tip #3 - Now that you've scaled back your list and have a more economical shopping list, jot down an estimate of what you want to spend on each person. This will help you stay within your budget once you get to the malls. This tip works great for me, I never charge anything for Christmas, and I stick as close to possible to my budget.

Tip #4 - Lets go shopping. This year, why not try shopping over the internet. I can bet there will be plenty of free shipping going on and you usually find a better deal with online specials. If you don't see what you are looking for online, then hit the malls.

Tip #5 - Start shopping early and don't wait until the last minute. Last minute shopping will surely blow your budget. You won't be able to find what you are looking for, you'll be stressed and you'll be purchasing anything that will get you out of that mad mall the quickest. If this isn't you, its surely me...I hate the malls.

I hope this list of must have tips gets you off to a great start with your holiday shopping. Runako Designs will also be offering some holiday specials soon too, and Stella and Dot, already have 50% off specials. so check the website for some deep discounts.

Unveiling,
Dee