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StyleBakery.coms Secrets to StressFree Holiday Shopping

The holidays may be joyful, but peaceful Hardly. Each year the seasonal rush seems to start earlier and earlier, beginning as early as November 1st in many retail establishments. StyleBakery.com suggests resolving to make this year stress free with some smart shopping strategies that are guaranteed to deliver:



1. Make A Gift List



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Start making a list now of everyone you need to shop for, along with any ideas you may have. Put the list on your PDA, cell phone or in your date book -- something you carry with you at all times.



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Pay attention to what your friends and loved ones express interest in. Some careful listening can lead to buying the right gift. Don'st hesitate to ask what they really want.



2. Start Shopping Now



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If you start early, you can avoid some of the last-minute rush and holiday crowds. Browse the stores on your free time and pick up gifts along the way.



3. Shop Against The Crowds



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Saturdays and Sundays are always the busiest days to shop. Avoid long lines and crowded stores and shop on Tuesday or Wednesday instead.



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Throughout the week, try to shop in the mornings and finish up before the busy lunch crowd rushes in.



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If possible, take a day off of work to shop.



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The day after Thanksgiving, otherwise known as Black Friday, marks the official start of the holiday shopping season and the busiest shopping day of the year. Sales and discounts abound, but saving a few bucks may not be worth losing your sanity, so shop online or relax at home instead.



4. Shop Online



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The best way to avoid crowds is to shop from home. Online stores are open 24/7 so you can shop at any time that suits your schedule. Plus, you'sll often find a larger selection and more inventory than at brick and mortar retailers.



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Sales, discounts and free shipping offers are aplenty this time of year. Check sites like http://www.sweet-savings.com, http://www.currentcodes.com and, of course, http://www.StyleBakery.com for exclusive discounts from top online retailers.



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For the best price on specific gifts and electronics, search comparison shopping portals like http://www.froogle.com and http://www.shopper.cnet.com.



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Save a step and ship gifts directly to long distance loved ones to avoid lines at the post office. Send the rest to yourself already wrapped with a gift card enclosed.





5. Shop Smart



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Always ask for a gift receipt so recipients have the freedom to return or exchange gifts.



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Save receipts in case items go on sale after your purchase. Many stores will honor the discount within a certain time period, usually 14 days.



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Carry snacks with you like granola bars, almonds or dark chocolate and a small bottle of water to keep your energy and spirits up.



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Consider a personal shopper. Many department stores and malls offer this service for free. They'sll work within your budget and do the hard work for you.



6. Last-Minute Shopping



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Most sites will guarantee delivery for Christmas as late as December 20th, though express shipping charges may apply.



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Far from a cop out, gift cards ensure your recipient gets the gift they want. Select cards from stores that show you put some thought into their interests. For truly last-minute gifts, many sites, like http://www.giftcertificates.com, will allow you to print out or e-mail a personalized gift card the same day you purchase it.



Follow StyleBakery.com'ss advice and be sure to take a little time for yourself -- you just might make it through the holidays stress-free.



StyleBakery.com is an online magazine featuring real-world style and shopping solutions, frequently appearing as experts on the Today Show and The View. StyleBakery.com'ss Huge Holiday Gift Guide featuring over 200 gift ideas will be available online November 24, 2006.

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