Festive Season in Royal Deeside

by Sarah Harker

 

As Halloween & Bonfire Night fades into the past, Christmas is now just around the corner. With all the shopping, presents, catering and long list of things to be done, sometimes it can seem a bit daunting and even stressful. 

But shopping for your presents doesn’t need to be stressful, leave the panic behind, make plans and get your gifts wrapped and under the tree with five simple tips for stress free Christmas shopping.

Shop local with the PassporTour at these local businesses.

TIP 1: First make a list of everyone that you need to buy gifts for. Next add a budget and mark down possible ideas or suggestions next to everyone’s name. This will not only help you stick to your budget but should also assist with a little inspiration and being organised when trying to think of what you need to get and for who.

Don’t worry if you have a gap or two, as inspiration should come, when you are browsing through the wide array of gift ideas on the Christmas laden counters of your local shops. From jewellery to art and clothing to whisky and all sorts of wonderful things in between, once you start to look you will be amazed at what you can find and there is sure to be something to fit the bill for everyone. 

 

TIP 2: Have a plan, so that you know what time you will have available to shop in the run up to the big day. It is also important to have an end date by which you would like to have it all completed by. Keep a note of this and check in against it once and awhile, so that time doesn’t run away, and the shopping becomes stressful again.

You could consider aiming to be completely sorted a couple of weeks before Christmas. Not only does that give you time for any last-minute purchases, (if the need were to arise) but this approach will also prove to a much more relaxing time for you, as you are safe in the knowledge that all your presents are sorted and all done in good time.

 

TIP 3: We suggest that you check out when local Christmas Fayres or events are being held. Also keep an eye to see when local shops are holding any special Christmas shopping days. All of these are great sources for finding the more unusual or special gift as well as being perfect for picking up great stocking fillers and a secret Santa or two. In addition, also remember by shopping local you are helping support local businesses and in turn the wider community, which of course is a real win win for all.

 

TIP 4: Remember too everyone loves receiving handmade gifts, it shows that you have taken care and attention to make some just for them. So why not try a spot of baking? A jar of cookies or a rather delicious fudge with a ribbon tied around the top make for a great present! Use local suppliers to source your ingredient’s and materials and get busy making that special something. Finish with a decoration or two, add that special message and create your gift with the personal touch.

 

TIP 5: And so to the last tip, remember to also have some fun! Christmas shopping doesn’t need to be all about the list. Don’t try to shop till you drop. Instead seek out events or fayres, where you can build in some down time with friends over a mulled wine or a tasty mince pie. Or if there are any special themed events happening, add them to the calendar, turn up, enjoy the festivities and let the Christmas mood take over.

So whatever you are doing in the run up to December 25th, we hope these simple tips can help take some of the stress out of your Christmas shopping. 

Shop local with the PassporTour at these local businesses.

Happy Christmas Everyone!

 

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