We're down to the nubbins for gift-shopping time. Unfortunately, the malls are mobbed. Catalog express-shipping prices can break the budget. And there's still more to do on your list than done. It's time to start thinking in terms of gift themes and one-stop shopping.
Deciding on a gift theme that will accommodate the tastes of both genders and all ages -- food, books, movies, gadgetry -- will greatly reduce decision-making time. It also means a single stop at an appropriate store is all that's necessary.
Here are some ideas:
* Food, glorious food: Food gifts are always welcome if they're thoughtful. So consider the giftee's tastes and head to a large, well-stocked grocery or gourmet food store. Check out the salsa selection. Most of the interesting salsas are relatively expensive -- upward of $5 and $6 for 10 to 12 ounces -- and a splurge for oneself. So a salsa sampler would be a prized gift. Or give one jar, some gourmet chips and a six-pack of Mexican beer.
A popcorn nut might enjoy some flavored oils and a selection of specialty popcorns presented in a big, clear bowl. Someone with more sophisticated taste might enjoy a package of smoked salmon, water wafers, a jar of capers, a small onion and a bottle of chardonnay.
For kids, scoop up an assortment of drink boxes with colorful straws, teeny containers of applesauce, the latest cereal pegged to a movie and a few toys. Mix everything in one merry grab bag.
* Flashback: Remember when you were a kid and the drugstore TTC was your one-stop-shopping heaven? Evening in Paris for Mom, Old Spice for Dad and, for sisters and brothers, the kind of stuff you would rather have kept for yourself.
Now $5 will barely cover a bottle of Old Spice, but the drugstore still holds treasures for last-minute shoppers. For older family members, fill a stocking with toiletries, plastic bottles, trial-size merchandise and pill organizers. The toy sections have Barbie clothes and Matchbox cars. And cosmetic departments carry some perfectly respectable perfumes and after-shaves.
Also, take a look at the gift section. Last week, one national chain drugstore had 100 percent cotton throw rugs in primary colors as well as matching place mats and napkins. An upscale department store is carrying the same thing -- at a higher price.
* Give them the business: In addition to miles of nifty pens, papers, computer supplies, personal organizers and such, many the chain office supply discounters offer "business" gifts that are suitable for friends and family as well -- lush coffee-table books, elegant food-gift baskets and expensive chocolates.
* Book 'em: It's surprising how many people don't consider bookstores for one-stop shopping. They stock not only books, but also calendars, note paper, cards, music, books on tape, books combined with kits for crafts or projects, posters. Or give a magazine subscription. Almost everyone has some interest that a magazine addresses. Send in the subscription card and wrap the magazine as a representation of the year's worth of reading to come. Be sure to enclose a note telling the recipient to expect the subscription to begin after the first of the year.
* Party time: Plan a party or even two -- one for friends, one for
family. Wrap invitations in a box or drop them into gift bags. Get everyone together after the holidays. And the only shopping necessary for this one -- right now anyway -- is in a stationery store.
IN TIME
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