What brightens up your holiday shopping season? You may prefer a quiet Christmas season at home, large family gatherings at the home of the relative who drew the short straw, or hand-to-hand combat on Black Friday at the mall. However, everyone agrees that saving money on Christmas shopping gives the holiday an extra layer of cheer. Here are a few suggestions to increase your holiday cheer and your savings account simultaneously.
1. Make a List – Avoid the temptation to go shopping without a list and look for holiday inspiration. You'll find inspiration, along with many gift items you didn't really want at a higher price than you should have paid. Know what you are shopping for and avoid costly holiday "mission creep." After all, even Santa makes a list (and checks it twice).
2. Make a Budget – A budget is the key to any form of saving. Once you have a gift list, research all the items on that list to find reasonable prices for those items. Once you see the typical range of prices, you'll know a good deal when you see one.
3. Research Online Deals – Use online resources to your advantage. Retailer websites, apps, and social media contacts, along with sites that track deals, give you plenty of avenues to find great bargains. Search in the comfort of your own home without having to brave the winter weather (or a few thousand of your fellow consumers).
4. Consider Homemade Presents – A knitted sweater or a handcrafted jewelry box not only saves money, it also provides a personal touch that makes your gift special. Can't knit or build things? You may be surprised at what you can learn – and if you find a new skill, you may acquire a hobby that can become a profitable side source of income.
5. Buy Previous Models of Electronics – If you must have the latest smartphone, game system, or Smart TV, be prepared to pay for it. Retailers are always offering deals on the previous versions to clear space for the new generations. Will your gift recipient really care if they receive the previous model?
At The Dutch Mill we pride ourselves on offering our customers amazing prices every day, but on Friday, December 6th we’re taking it to a whole new level with our annual Moonlight Madness sale! Shop beautiful clothing, home décor and more, with great in-store specials beginning at 9am and continuing ALL DAY! Plus, from 7pm to 11pm, warm up with hot apple cider and cookies as you’re treated to the smooth vocal stylings of Johnny Scat, performing your all-time Christmas favourites – with his own special twist! Visit us at 533 Millgrove Side Road Dundas, Ontario December 6th or call 905-689-7253 for more information.