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<\/a><\/p>\nAre you dreaming of gliding – stress free – through your Christmas shopping this year? What could be nicer than a trip to one of our beautiful cities combined with a browse round a festive market, Gl\u00fchwein in hand soaking up the festive cheer.<\/p>\n
It is a great time of year with everyone in good spirits, sparkly treats aplenty and shops overflowing with festive gifts. There is a lot of pleasure in finding the perfect something as nothing makes your heart lift more than watching your loved ones\u2019 eyes light up on Christmas morning.<\/p>\n
So here is a simple guide to help you on your way, avoiding the pitfalls of a last minute manic shopathon.<\/p>\n
Step one: Wrap up and look the part, put on your best cosy accessories, grab a bag with plenty of space for gifts and remember, there is nothing like a layer of lip gloss and a spritz of perfume to set the day up and get you in the mood for some Christmas cheer.<\/p>\n
Step two: The magazines and shops are full of helpful guides, for him, for her, for the kids and so on although they can be overwhelming especially if you start collecting them \u2013 just in case. It\u2019s a good idea to tear out any good pics as you see them to avoid them being scrumpled up to get the fire started. Keep them with your lists*(see step three) as a visual reminder.<\/p>\n
Step three: Make a list (or two) and try to keep your budget in mind. (Seek advice where possible as a gentle nudge in the right direction always helps)<\/p>\n
Step four: Ask your self what you want to achieve today \u2013 try doing one person at a time \u2013 it\u2019s all about job satisfaction, Rome wasn\u2019t built in a day after all.<\/p>\n
Step five: Be individual, search out unique ideas.\u00a0 Perhaps go bespoke and make mini hampers with a personal touch. Or a longer lasting thought with something for the garden, winter flowering Narcissi and Hyacinths make great gifts.<\/p>\n
Step six: Have a contingency plan, it will be busy. Most good eateries are chockablock and you may well have to queue just to be able to stand at the bar with your frothy festive cappuccino. So taking provisions is an absolute must, as you will need them!<\/p>\n
Step seven: Think of every shop and every idea as research with any purchase as a bonus and unfruitful ideas crossed off the list, there are plenty more around each corner.<\/p>\n
Step eight: Keep reminding yourself that it is the thought that counts, because it is and that way you can keep the pleasure in the hunting. Things that are handmade with a lot of heart are often the most prized \u2013 something as simple as a framed photo may become a most treasured possession.<\/p>\n
Step nine: Find alternative ways to find that elusive gift. Head home, put your feet up, turn up the Michael Buble pour yourself a glass of something mulled, warm up the mince pies and turn on the laptop. Now that’s what I call Christmas shopping and a great way to have yourself a merry little Christmas.<\/p>\n