Although the holiday season
is a relatively brief
period, it still can consume
months of time in regard
to preparation, shopping
and hosting. According to a
SWNS Digital survey of 2,000
adults in the United States,
the average American spends
six weeks preparing for the holiday
season. Five weeks are devoted
to planning presents, meals and other
essentials, while an entire week is just for decorating.
Shopping for presents can consume a lot of time, especially
for those who aren't quite sure what to get. Thinking
outside of the typical retail box may help with inspiration,
and shoppers may encounter smaller crowds and
find better deals. Here are some unique places to shop to
grab great holiday gifts.
• Pharmacies: While you're picking up your prescription
or medicine cabinet essentials, take a spin around
the store to see what else might be available. Typically,
pharmacies have entire aisles dedicated to seasonal
merchandise, so you might be able to find holiday decorations,
gift wrap, candles, pampering items, and even
food-related items and gift baskets.
• Farmer's market: Farmer's markets pop up in towns
on set days of the week. Although plenty of farm-related
produce and plants are available, these markets also
attract many other small businesses. You can find craftsmen,
jewelry makers, niche food sellers, and so much
more.
• School (or church) bazaar: In an effort to raise funds
for the PTA or other organizations, schools and churches
often host holiday fairs and bazaars right before the
holidays. Area businesses rent table space and set up
booths with an array of different products for sale. This
is a great spot to grab interesting finds all under one
roof. Plus, you're supporting the local community in the
process.
• Home improvement retailer: Plenty of people will
appreciate practical gifts that they can use in and
around the home. A visit to a hardware store or home
improvement retailer offers up aisles of essentials for the
do-it-yourselfer. While new shelving for the garage or a
set of flashlights may not be the most glamorous gifts,
these items can come in handy.
• Craft store: Cater to recipients' favorite hobbies by
ensuring they'll be flush with plenty of supplies. Craft
stores have a bevy of items for every interest imaginable.
They're also surprisingly good places to grab deals on
picture frames, housewares, food-making supplies, and
decorative items.
• Specialty food store: Head to small specialty food
stores to load up on unique items larger supermarkets
might not carry. Ethnic markets may have flavorful and
interesting ingredients to group together in a food basket
that makes an ideal gift for transplants missing the
flavors of home.
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