5 Tips for Buying Last Minute Christmas Gifts

No matter how much you may try to avoid it, there may be times when you need to find last minute Christmas gifts.

No one is perfect, and you may have forgotten someone on your shopping list, or maybe you just couldn’t find the right gift anywhere no matter how hard you looked.

Last minute Christmas shopping may be a dreaded task, but it can still be thoughtful and creative.

Here are 5 ideas for finding the right gift.

5 Tips for Buying Last Minute Christmas Gifts

1) Purchase Gift Certificates

Although this isn’t the most creative gift, there are gift certificates available for any taste.

You can purchase a gift certificate for a pedicure and/or manicure, gym membership, spa day, massage, yoga class, or a dinner at a nice local restaurant.

Think about what the recipient of your gift loves to do the most, but doesn’t have the time or even the money, and give him or her a special treat.

2) Shop Local

You can avoid the crowds of last minute shoppers and empty store racks in department stores by visiting your local small businesses.

These stores are more likely less crowded, and will offer you more choices in unique gifts. It is also a great way to support your local economy.

 3) Be Practical but Creative

Think of what your friend or family member really loves to drink, whether it is wine, energy drinks, or diet drink mixes.

Purchase one or several varieties, and include the type of glass commonly used for that beverage.

For example, for wine, you can purchase a pair or set of wine glasses.

Or for diet drink mixes, you can purchase an eco-friendly drinking container.

4) Purchase Gift Cards

There are so many available gift cards from places like your local grocery store, where you can purchase a gift card perfect for that special someone.

Local stores now carry gift cards from many different vendors, from home improvement to clothing stores, either locally or online.

I love purchasing our gift cards through Amazon — they have everything from Netflix to Sephora!

5) Purchase a Special Christmas Decoration

This idea is great for the person who loves all types of Christmas decorations, or who loves to collect original pieces.

As Christmas approaches, many of the decorations are on sale or clearance, still giving you a reasonable price for the uniqueness of a gift.

For example, you can purchase an ornament where you can add your own family picture, making this gift very special.

Just because you’re shopping for last minute Christmas gifts for a friend or family member, it doesn’t mean that it has to be without thought.

It may take some creativity, but don’t settle for purchasing an item just because you need a gift.

He or she will know it was a last minute thought when you buy them a pair of mittens and they live in Florida!

You can still make the gift special, although it may take some thinking, but there are always gifts out there that you can purchase at the last minute to make someone’s Christmas special.

After all, it is the thought that counts!

Get more Christmas Inspiration on Mommy Evolution!