“Tis the season to go shopping Fa la la la la, la la la la…”
December has arrived! It’s time to wrap up warm and ooo at the festive lights; to swap your morning alarm tune for a cracking Christmas carol; to get creative with popcorn chains, bourbons and tinsel galore, and if you have not already done so, it’s time to construct your letter to Santa and send it via special speedy delivery to the North Pole ASAP…or send it home to mum and she will deal with the necessary postage.
Having just celebrated my 21st birthday, my letter to Santa is looking rather bare this year, and so instead of thinking about what I want, I’ve been channelling my Christmas spirit into what I can give to my nearest and dearest. I find little more satisfying then picking out the perfect gift, especially after hours and hours of brainstorming (is that just me?), and whether you are present searching for your secret Santa or wanting to wow your family, I thought I would share my strict, and I like to think flawless, three rules of present buying.
1. Create a memory.
Everyone has that friend that is simply impossible to buy for, and if you are anything like me and hate the thought of your beautifully planned present being received with an over exaggerated ‘thanks’ and an awkward smile that guarantees it is going to be returned for a credit note the next day, then I believe the way to their heart is an outing.
My advice is to start with Groupon.
Until Saturday 7th December, Groupon is offering the chance to see ‘Peter Pan: The Never Ending Story’ at only £12.50 per ticket at The NIA Birmingham. Act quick to watch X Factor’s sweetie Stacey Solomon win us over with her Tinker bell performance, and brace yourselves to witness Peter flying high above the stage without wires – a first for theatres worldwide.
But if Disney is not up their street (and I won’t judge), how about the chance to see ‘Take Me Out: Live on Stage’ at the NEC for just £14– Me likey!
Offer available until Thursday 5th December.
2. Share the present
On a student budget buying the perfect present can seem problematic, but fear not as I suggest a group purchase. Clubbing together with siblings or friends means more pennies and more minds are put together to find that great gift. Personally I rate the online marketplace http://www.notonthehighstreet.com highly. It sells the most unique items from the best creative small businesses and the website is a pleasure to use. Many items can be personalised for that special touch and most can be sent wrapped with a gift note – ideal if you’re sending it straight to your recipient.
My current favourites include:
For the jewellery lover, available in a range of colours, £25.00.
For the baker, personalise yourself, up to 18 letters are included in the price, £39.00.
The ultimate personal gift for parents, grandparents, siblings or friends – you write the words! Available in different font colours, £38.00.
3. Buy a card
I’m all for a touch of sentiment, and sorry to sound ungrateful but receiving a present without a card is like being baked a cake with no icing – simply incomplete. You don’t have to be an essay writer, poet, or even one for words as long as your card is a winner; you can merely sign your name. Funkypigeon is my prime go-to place and below are a couple of my favourite cards of the season.
Happy shopping!