"Approximately 95 percent of our visitors do their homework online and use the information gathered to purchase items in their local stores," said Eva Yusa, also known as "Eva the Shopping Diva," ShopLocal.com shopping blogger. Eva offers these great tips on getting a jump on holiday shopping this Thanksgiving:
-- Start Online - Don't let the holiday stop you from shopping. The Internet is always open. Go to a site such as ShopLocal.com to get the jump on holiday gifts and compare prices and products from the comfort of your own home. -- Balance The Books - Don't go into the red this holiday season. Take some time to create a budget for gifts and keep track of expenses by saving gift receipts in an envelope. -- Make Your List - It may sound passe, but devote some quality time to making a good list so you are not stuck on December 24 realizing that you forgot your Uncle Harry. Also, add "hostess" and "grab bag" gifts to the top of the list so that you are prepared for unexpected parties or Secret Santa exchanges. -- Check It Twice - Is your list in "ship" shape? If you are planning on mailing gifts to friends and family, note which gifts will be sent so you can take advantage of free shipping. Many retailers offer free shipping -- and that means you don't have to wrap! -- Get Organized - Though you may do your research on the Web, statistics say you'll end up purchasing your gifts in stores. Prepare for your trip by packing some shopping essentials like your list, a little snack and a bottle of water. That way, even if you have to do some last minute shopping, your bag is ready to go. Remember -- wear comfortable shoes and a light jacket ... those stores can get warm. -- Dream Up A Theme - Take the guessing out of holiday shopping and use a theme for all your gifts. Bring the sound of music and give everyone a cool new 1GB iPod Shuffle or spread holiday cheer with the gift of a delicious bottle of your favorite wine for those on your list. -- Set Real Deadlines - And don't let one of them be December 24. Create a shopping calendar for yourself. The holiday season is a fast and furious one. Enjoy the holiday times and avoid last minute shopping by setting dates for purchasing your gifts, and if necessary, wrapping and shipping them.
ShopLocal, ShopLocal.com, SmartCircular, SmartCatalog and SmartMedia are trademarks and Eva the Shopping Diva is a service mark of ShopLocal, LLC. Other company and product names may be trademarks of their respective owners.
ShopLocal.com
