A Million Shoppers Spending

Martha Stewart for pingg

Long trips over the river and through the woods, weekend visits with in-laws, endless renditions of “Jingle Bells” during grueling shopping trips — sometimes the holiday season feels more like an endurance race than the most wonderful time of year. That’s when you need a guide to surviving holiday shopping.

Shop from home:
There is really only one natural reaction to stumbling upon http://www.findgift.com, and that is “I’m saved!” This site promotes itself as the place to find unique and creative gifts and it does not disappoint. First, you choose a gender and an age group and the site will display gift ideas based on your responses. From marshmallow shooters and personalized vampire novels to spa packages and paintball gift certificates your bound to find something for even those dubbed ‘most difficult to shop for.’ These results are usually right on the mark as to what each person on your ‘nice’ list would enjoy and the best part is you don’t even have to get out of your fuzzy slippers to find them!

Save $:
Scaling back on the Holiday spending this year? That doesn’t mean that your gifts are limited to those made out of pipe cleaners and macaroni art masterpieces. Baked goods and cookie never fail to bring about smiles and cost a fraction of traditional gifts. I love about.com‘s Southern Food Guide’s fabulous cookie guide that has a link to just about any type of holiday cookie you can think of. Once baked, it’s time to ship. Visit the USPS website to see how easy it is to have a postal carrier come to your door, pick up your gifts and have them delivered.

Whether you decide to brave the mall, shop online or go with a homemade gift exchange, don’t forget to send out thoughtful cards. Sending holiday cards is one of the best ways to spread cheer while staying in touch with loved ones. Check out pingg’s festive holiday collection to tame the task of card-sending and stay on budget.