Smart Home Lifestyle
December 22, 2007
Last Minute Gift Gadget Ideas That Keep you out of the Mall and Big Box Stores
‘Twas three days before Christmas, and I feel relaxed, I planned well ahead with not one credit card maxed. The presents are wrapped and the table is set, I even bought extra batteries for those tech gifts they’ll get.
But wait, I awake from this Stepford Wife’s tale, I’ve procrastinated again and I’m getting pale. With just a few more days, it’s unlikely I’ll score, unless I get creative and say, “the mall- no more.” So here is a guide for you poor fools out there, for gifts that won’t break you or shame you this year.
Peace, prosperity and the pharmacy
Pharmacies aren’t just good for cold and flu season, these “mini-malls” prove perfect for your one-stop Christmas shop. Stores like Walgreen and CVS offer everything from electronics to food goods. And, you’ll always find a front row parking spot.
Walgreen’s Aiptek 6 Megapixel Digital Camera/Video Camcorder has image stabilization and a voice recorder for under $90. And for just $10 more, their RCA Small Wonder Digital Camcorder holds up to 60 minutes of video clips and is small enough to fit in your pocket. And for just under $130, Polaroid’s 7 Megapixel Digital Camera offers a $20 mail in rebate.
Looking for stocking stuffers? For $10, check out Walgreen’s Mini Digital Keychain Camera or for just under $20, Disney’s purple Pix-Micro Digital Camera is a fun choice.
Tired of all this tech? Walgreen has designer fragrances like Tommy Bahama and Armani Code for a whole lot less than department stores. And finally check out the food isle. Royal Dansk Danish cookies and Terry’s Chocolate Oranges are my two top Christmas tradition picks.
When you’ve got all your gifts, make sure and hit the wrapping paper isle for gift bags, bows and cards. Just don’t forget the tape.
One click for good cheer
This weekend forget waiting in line- get online. Stores like Amazon.com and Bass Pro Shop make Internet shopping a breeze. Simply click on “gift certificate” and pick the amount. Both stores will send the gift certificate via e-mail to the recipient, just in time for Christmas. Want to wrap it up? Have them e-mail the certificate to you and print it out on some fancy paper. With this gift friends and family can choose what they like, while you keep your Hummer happily at home.
Holiday in a hurry
Still not convinced that a gift certificate or gadget will get their goose? It’s still not too late for a more personalized gift. Here are a few stores that you can still order from today for guaranteed Christmas delivery.
Red Envelope- by December 22 at 2pm
It’s the perfect gift giving catalogue for everyone on your list, including your pet. Make sure and check out their year of wishes and Cherry Blossom candles. Also, their wide variety of fun heart shaped jewelry.
Brookstone- by December 23 at 10am
For the teckie on your list.
Woolrich- by December 22 at 12pm
For more conservative clothing and gifts- great for Mom and Dad. I love their coral Marsh Creek pullover sweater.
Blue Nile- by December 22 at 9pm
It’s all about gold and pearls and diamonds, oh my.
Cherry Moon Farms- by December 22 at 6pm
This unique site has some great gift baskets. Make sure and check out the pink ribbon spa baskets starting just under $40. 10% goes to the charity Komen for the Cure.
Author: Diana Kostigen, Marketing/Public Relations Director, Comtec
