Count em down, just 6 shopping days until Christmas, and just three more until you're that person at the mall the weekend before Christmas wondering why you have to spend and hour driving around looking for a parking spot. So get it together (Brad Pitt, who was shopping TODAY for his children, PS Today is his birthday. WOOOT, Happy Birthday Angelina's Lover) and get to the stores. Since December is all about lists and we're about to the end of our listing bout, it is now time for Lori (our Fashion Reaction girl) to let us in on her quick list of "ways to survive your shopping excursion so you don't end up with those quickie 5 dollar presents they have going on when you first walk in to Target. Remote Control Organizer anyone?"
7. It's a cliché but the early bird gets the worm. If you are planning a day of shopping- go early. In my experience, going between 10 and 11 am makes a huge difference when it comes to ease of finding parking, cashier lines, etc. Things start to become pretty busy noon and later.
6. The next best option is to go on a week night. This doesn't leave much "browsing" time, but it you have a specific shop or item in mind, the parking lot is relatively empty on a Tuesday or Wednesday evening.
5. Layers are the way to go. I always opt for too little rather than too much. Stores filled with people are warm. Plus if you (like me) just happen to find something to try on yourself, tearing off coats and sweaters becomes a hassle. Take an extra layer and leave it in the car in case your shopping trip goes into the evening.
4. Also, practice patience. Driving around parking lots and waiting in long lines with crying kids JUST to find out that they sold out of the particular item you were looking for can be VERY frustrating if you let it.
3. Remember that many shops have great customer service centers that will order items online for you. If they don't have the size or color you are looking for, some places will order it and have it shipped to the store at no charge. Always ask what a store's customer service can do for you- they may be able to help find a gift for that impossible person on your list, or have something shipped directly to a recipient across the country, or suggest another store if you don't find what you are looking for.
2. Try to remember that most shopping should be fun and you shouldn't dread gift-giving- so if you can't stand the thought of another line, go home (or to the library or an Internet cafe) and shop on-line or by phone.
1. My BEST tip is to shop at stores/companies that share your values. The Human Rights Campaign and PETA both put out lists of places that are in-line with what they promote (supports gay rights, animal friendly, etc.). You'll also find that many companies offer "green" products- REI sells organic cotton beanies and fleece made out of recycled materials. Check out the label or ask where a product is made.
A quick list: Some San Diego Shopping for your Last Minute Gifts
7. It's a cliché but the early bird gets the worm. If you are planning a day of shopping- go early. In my experience, going between 10 and 11 am makes a huge difference when it comes to ease of finding parking, cashier lines, etc. Things start to become pretty busy noon and later.
6. The next best option is to go on a week night. This doesn't leave much "browsing" time, but it you have a specific shop or item in mind, the parking lot is relatively empty on a Tuesday or Wednesday evening.
5. Layers are the way to go. I always opt for too little rather than too much. Stores filled with people are warm. Plus if you (like me) just happen to find something to try on yourself, tearing off coats and sweaters becomes a hassle. Take an extra layer and leave it in the car in case your shopping trip goes into the evening.
4. Also, practice patience. Driving around parking lots and waiting in long lines with crying kids JUST to find out that they sold out of the particular item you were looking for can be VERY frustrating if you let it.
3. Remember that many shops have great customer service centers that will order items online for you. If they don't have the size or color you are looking for, some places will order it and have it shipped to the store at no charge. Always ask what a store's customer service can do for you- they may be able to help find a gift for that impossible person on your list, or have something shipped directly to a recipient across the country, or suggest another store if you don't find what you are looking for.
2. Try to remember that most shopping should be fun and you shouldn't dread gift-giving- so if you can't stand the thought of another line, go home (or to the library or an Internet cafe) and shop on-line or by phone.
1. My BEST tip is to shop at stores/companies that share your values. The Human Rights Campaign and PETA both put out lists of places that are in-line with what they promote (supports gay rights, animal friendly, etc.). You'll also find that many companies offer "green" products- REI sells organic cotton beanies and fleece made out of recycled materials. Check out the label or ask where a product is made.
A quick list: Some San Diego Shopping for your Last Minute Gifts
- Pangaea in PB for unique stuff.
- There is also a jewelry/bead store in Hillcrest called Ammonite that is cool.
- Bluestocking Books in Hillcrest has new and used rare books.
- There is also Pure Beauty in Clairemont which has salon quality products, including Bliss Spa products (in case you don't feel like braving the mall).
- Next door is a Pet People, a great place for pet stuff (there is also one in La Jolla next to Whole Foods)- not overpriced like some specialty stores in the area, but better selection of specialty foods and better customer service than the big-name pet stores.
- Upstart Crow at Seaport village. Cute bookstore/cafe with fun stuff. They charge almost $3 for a Vitamin Water (!) so get a coffee instead (about $1.50).
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