Cyber Monday

As a fashion blogger, I felt a little pressure to immerse myself in the shopping mania that we call Black Friday.  However, I decided to spend the afternoon raking leaves with my family, and watching my kids jump into leaf piles.  I prefer to use this weekend to relax with my family, and to start organizing for upcoming holiday frenzy.   After all, Cyber Monday is right around the corner.  Tomorrow, I’ll take full advantage of being home with my cup of coffee, where no one can be a witness to my private shopping mania.   Are you saving your holiday shopping for Cyber Monday, too? Here’s the plan of attack that I recommend: 

 

1. Make a List And Check it Twice

• If you are a visual planner, use a secret board on Pinterest.  
• If you like to write it all down, find a printable shopping list online. Make sure the list includes the recipient, your budget, gift ideas, the website, the actual amount spent, and an empty box to check when you have purchased the gift.
• If you do most of your shopping from your phone, search for “holiday shopping list” and download a free app.
• If you’re lucky enough to be able to find all of your gifts one or two stores, use their wishlists to store your ideas.  On Cyber Monday,  you can buy what you can afford.  

 

2.  Figure Out Your Budget

Know your budget ahead of time, so when you end up spending a little more on a few things, you don’t forget to scale back on others.  

 

3. Don’t Panic, Most Things Can Be Returned 

Most stores have generous return policies for the holiday season, so if you overspend on Cyber Monday, you can always return it after the holidays.  It may put a little extra squeeze on your credit card, but at least the damage can be undone.  

 

4. Plan For  Extras 

I always keep an extra stash of gifts for surprise guests, and unexpected invitations.  These items work for a variety of people and situations: 

• Gifts cards to places where you shop.   If you don’t end up giving them away, you can use them after the holidays when your bank account is feeling a bit drained. 
• Gift cards to restaurants or the movies.
• Basket items.  When you’re not sure what to give, smaller items in a  gift basket can save you the stress of finding the perfect gift.  

My favorite gift baskets are:

1. Teatime (including teas, coffees, cookies and chocolate).
2. Spa day (including bath and body products, as well as candles).
3.  Wine and Cheese (including crackers, spreads and nuts).

These themes work for a variety of people and don’t spoil quickly.  Just before the event, you can always personalize the basket with homemade treats, a gift card or something specific for the recipient.  

 

5. Remember Yourself!

This is a great time to fill in your own closet,  as the stock and prices will be much different in January.  For fabulous fashion finds and gift ideas, follow me on Pinterest where I am updating my boards for fashionistas (big and small) daily.  

 

 

6. Cyber Monday Isn’t The Only Option

It’s a great time to snag bargains, but don’t forget your local stores.  It may require a little extra work, but you may find unique items, and help a small business grow.  

 

Tips on gift wrapping coming soon.  

Happy shopping !

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