Holiday Gift Guide 2019, 1

Crafty Holiday Gift Ideas This Year’s Hot Holiday Gifts Save Time While Shopping

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2019

S2 | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2019

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

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for holiday purchases

Limits spending in a tangible way

A key benefit of using cash is that it presents a visual cue that spending should cease.

If a shopper has set a $200 limit for holiday gifts, when that $200 in cash is gone, it’s a surefire reminder that it is time to step away from the register and leave the store.

It can be hard to view spending in real time when using credit or debit.

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Cash is often best for tipping servers and delivery personnel. According to Kim Palmer, a credit card guru at NerdWallet, a popular financial advice site, recipients of tips prefer cash because they get it immediately. A tip on a card may only be parceled out at the end of the week.

Losing cash doesn’t affect credit

Although many people say carrying cash is riskier Unlike some credit cards, than sticking to credit, the merchants will not turn away financial expert Dave Ramcash. This is especially help- sey says differently. While parting with lost cash can be ful when shopping at small a blow, the risk of identity businesses or pop-up markets that are popular during theft, and sorting through canceling credit and debit the holidays. Local artisans cards when they go missing, or other niche vendors may can be an even bigger threat. only take cash as well.

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Cash facilitates tipping

Parting with hard-earned cash directly can be a great motivator to keep that $20 in your pocket instead of using it for a scratch-off lotto ticket or mall food court snack.

Watching cash supplies dwindle may prevent shoppers from making unwise purchases.

Cash may score deals

Paying in cash can be a great bargaining chip at retailers who may offer discounts or waive fees for cash purchases.

There’s something to be said about paying in cash, especially during the holidays when sticking to budgets can be challenging.

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2019

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2019 | S3

Gifts for Everyone on Your List How to avoid shipping costs on holiday gifts Many shoppers conduct their holiday shopping at traditional brick-and-mortar stores as well as online retailers. Both have their share of advantages, including the ability to ship items directly home if there is a deal to be had.

Shipping can be quite the convenience, particularly for heavy items or if an item is currently out of stock in a store. The retailer can have it sent over from another location or their main warehouse. Shipping can save shoppers time and reduce their stress. However, as convenient as shipping gifts can be, the hefty cost of shipping gifts can eat away at holiday budgets.

A 2018 report from U.S. News and World Report found some shipping fees can range between $5 and $10 per package. Fortunately, in many cases, consumers can avoid shipping costs if they shop smart.

Pay attention to suspended shipping costs

offers free shipping on purchases $50 and over. By spending a little more, shoppers may actually end up saving money.

Shop where shipping is always free

In order to attract business, certain online retailers, including Zappos, offer free shipping, while others offer free shipping in exchange for nominal membership fees.

Explore in-store pickup

To capitalize on both online and in-store shopping, retailers will frequently offer free in-store pickup of items purchased online. Ship-tostore has become popular at stores like Target, Old Navy and Walmart.

Shop as early as possible

Free shipping deals often extend only to items shipped standard. Expedited or overnight shipping will still incur a fee. Therefore, shop early if your goal is cut shipping costs or avoid them entirely.

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Many retailers will temporarily freeze shipping costs during certain periods. Take advantage of Shoppers can note these free Free Shipping Day Free Shipping Day takes shipping windows and order the bulk of their items then. place each year when thousands of online stores offer Meet the minimum free shipping with delivery amount before Christmas. In 2019, Some stores and online Free Shipping Day is Saturretailers will offer free ship- day, December 14. ping once shoppers reach a Saving money on shipping certain spending threshold. is easy when consumers For example, Chewy.com learn the ropes.

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2019

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How to be

comfortable when holiday shopping Give the gift of a lasting memory this Holiday Season.

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Shopping can be time-consuming come the holiday season. According to a Consumer Reports Holiday Shopping Poll, during the holiday season, the average American spends roughly 42 hours buying, wrapping and returning gifts. Holiday shopping can be both physically and mentally tiring.

Keep weather in mind

The weather can affect where shoppers do their shopping. Select indoor malls or outlets and other retailers with overhead coverage to protect against the elements.

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Choose easy-flow stores

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Stores that are easy to navigate and offer ample room for multiple people to shop simultaneously can feel more comfortable, even during the busy holiday season.

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The rise in luxury loungewear means shoppers can be comfortable and look good at the same time. Choose footwear that will not rub and cause blisters while offering ample arch support to prevent tired feet.

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Wear comfortable clothing

tivity and help avoid fatigue or impulse food stops.

Consider shopping small

Many small business owners go out of their way to provide a comfortable shopping experience, establishing rapport and solving problems for customers.

Take breaks along the way

Recharge by resting from the shopping experience.

Take a break by sitting down or periodically engage in activities that do not involve shopping or thinking about the holidays.

Shop unencumbered

Leave unnecessary items at home so as not to be burdened down by coats, bags and other accessories. Utilize lockers at malls or coat checks. Skip bulky purses in lieu of small, easily toted options.

Arrive well-fed With these shopping It’s difficult to make shopcomfort strategies in mind, ping decisions on an empty holiday excursions can be stomach. Heading to stores satiated can improve produc- that much more enjoyable.

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2019

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Holiday gifts

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Holiday shoppers who are busy making lists and checking them twice should make sure they don’t overlook the family pet. Christmas has gone to the cats and dogs, as a greater number of people include their companion animals when selecting gifts each year.

A study by OnePoll conducted by Rover.com, the nation’s largest network of dog sitters and walkers, found that 95 percent of pet owners have bought holiday gifts for their pets. Gifts can range from everyday needs, like food and treats, to more lavish extravagances like spa treatments.

Pet owners who plan to get their pets gifts this year may want to consider some of the emerging pet trends as they browse wares and services. The Balance, a business, career and industry information site, says pet industry trends point toward Natural Pet Products, Specialty Pet Services and Mobile Pet Grooming seeing growth.

From All of Us at The Republican We are thankful to our readers and advertisers and hope you have a wonderful holiday!

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2019

S6 | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2019

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This year’s

HOT HOLIDAY GIFTS The holiday season is synonymous with many things, including exchanging gifts with friends and loved ones. Each year, certain items prove more trendy than others. Get the scoop on the gear and gadgets that are bound to be on the top of wish lists this year.

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Amazon Echo Show 5

This is the latest incarnation of the Echo Show at a more affordable price point than past incarnations. The screen is a smart display and enables users to make video calls, play games, watch videos, check the weather, and control smart home devices.

A new privacy feature allows users to turn off the camera and microphone when the device isn’t in use.

Battery pack case

There’s no need to waste time sitting by the phone charger waiting for popular iPhones to revive their batteries with a battery pack case. A charging case provides extra talk time or video streaming and fits comfortably on various models.

VicTsing Wireless Shower Speaker

Whether a friend or loved one is practicing for a night out at karaoke or enjoys getting pumped up in the morning with upbeat tunes, a waterproof shower speaker is a hot gift. It can stream music or bluetooth over calls from a phone.

Fitbit fitness tracker

A Fitbit product is certain to be a winner for fitness enthusiasts. The Fitbit Charge

HR Wireless Activity Wristband is an affordable option capable of tracking workouts.

It also can sync with a phone and is water-resistant.

Blink XT

Home Security Camera

People with security on their minds, including those who want to keep tabs on their homes while they’re at work or on vacation, may cherish this security camera.

The newest version is weatherproof and has cloud storage. Motion detection will set off an alert on a person’s phone or tablet in real time.

Tile Trackers

Handy Tile gadgets connect to keys, bags and other belongings that frequently go missing. Simply connect to the app and the device will ring, identifying the location.

The upgraded version covers 200 feet and has a louder volume.

iRobot Braava Robot Mop

This powerful robot will mop and sweep tile and hardwood floors. Pair it with the traditional iRobot vacuum and an entire house can be cleaned without lifting a finger.

These are just a handful of the items that will be coveted this holiday season.

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2019

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Holiday season doesn’t have to be expensive

Establish a firm limit on gift amounts.

The more the merrier is a popular a sentiment during the holiday season, but spending more on a gift doesn’t necessarily mean it will be better received. Many humorous, whimsical, practical, or even glamorous gifts can be had for $30 or less.

Combine financial resources.

If there’s a splurge in mind for a particular person on a list, find out if someone else is willing to serve as a co-gifter. For example, siblings can chip in for a gift for Mom or Dad if they have their sights set on something expensive.

Consider a grab bag or secret gift exchange.

Families or groups of friends can opt for a grab bag this year.

In such arrangements, each person brings a gift worth no more than a previously agreed on amount of money, and individuals take turns pulling gifts out of the bag. This is a great way to stay within budget and is a particularly helpful arrangement for big families.

Shop all sales.

Utilize sales to your best advantage to score deals on various items. Those who plan ahead can shop off-season to help stretch a budget over the course of the year rather than over one or two months.

Include some homemade gifts.

People with a talent for knitting or crocheting can create blankets or other gifts.

Bakers can whip up tasty, edible treats. The holidays are a prime time to put your unique talents to use and turn them into beloved gifts.

The holidays certainly can be expensive, but people can rein in spending by acting frugally when gifting.

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The average American will spend $700 on holiday gifts and other trimmings this year, totaling more than $465 billion says the National Retail Federation. Such spending can compromise household budgets, making the post-holiday hangover that much more difficult.

Holiday shoppers may want to emphasize being frugal this holiday season. Here are some strategies to follow.

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Maximize credit card rewards when holiday shopping

Americans racked up an average of $1,054 of debt during the 2018 holiday season.

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Financially savvy individuals want to maximize the potential of their hardearned money. For better or worse, the holiday season is a time when many people forgo their budgets in favor of finding the perfect gifts for their loved ones. Unfortunately, that can put well-meaning people in debt. But debt doesn’t have to be a consequence of the holiday shopping season.

In its 2018 post-holiday debt survey, MagnifyMoney found Americans racked up an average of $1,054 of debt that holiday season, a 5 percent increase over the previous year. Roughly half of the people surveyed felt they’d be able to pay off that debt in three months or less.

One way to spend wisely during the holiday season is to take advantage of some spending-related perks.

Cash-back credit cards offer a rewards system that will repay a percentage of total expenditures on the card in cash. That “refund” can be cashed out, turned into gift cards, used for statement credits, and even put into a savings or investment account, depending on the card. Reward structures vary, with some cards offering a standard percentage on cash back on all purchases, and others offering higher percentages on certain categories each quarter. Some cards even have tiered rewards programs, while others offer sign-on bonuses that can put even more money in consumers’ pockets.

The Citi® Double Cash Card is one card to consider. Its earning structure enables shoppers to earn 1 percent back when purchases are made and another 1 percent when the bill is paid on time (at least the minimum due).

The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is an example of a tiered category card. The card offers 6 percent back on supermarkets, 3 percent on gas and transit and 1 percent on other purchases.

Other cards, like the Discover it® Credit Card, will offer a flat rate of 1 percent in rewards on all purchases, and then 5 percent in quarterly rotating categories that the consumer activates. With categories such as Amazon and PayPal purchases, shoppers can maximize rewards while patronizing these popular retailers when holiday shopping.

According to CardRatings.com, a credit card comparison site, cash back credit card rewards are beneficial to those who can pay off balances in full each billing cycle and not incur interest charges. But spending more than one can afford simply for the rewards is a poor practice; stick to a spending limit.

Earn a percentage back on holiday spending this year that can be saved and put to use next year. Resources like Credit Karma, Nerd Wallet and CardRatings can help consumers find the card that best fits their needs.

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2019

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Crafty experiences for holiday gifts

f $1,054 One of the ason.

challenges each holiday season is coming up with novel gifts for loved ones.

For those who seemingly have it all and might not need another Santa sweater or fruit basket, an experience gift might be the perfect fit.

Giving experiences can be fulfilling for gifters and show recipients that the gift was given ample thought.

There are no shortages of experiences to offer. However, people who enjoy arts and crafts may enjoy being on the receiving end of a crafty experience this year.

Glass-blowing

Glass-blowing is an art form that turns molten glass into colorful and eye-catching pieces. Blown glass can be transformed into everything from wine goblets to ornaments. Instructors can teach gift recipients how to form glass into desired finished products and decorate them with swirls, patterns and colors. Check with local glass-blowing artisans (many are located in tourist centers and seaside towns) to find out if they offer experience gifts.

Paint and sip

Paint and sip business-

es are thriving, as scores of novice artists produce impressive artwork while sipping a glass of vino. A friend or a family member who aspires to be the next Bob Ross will likely enjoy a paint and sip gift.

Farmhouse style crafts

Businesses that teach individuals how to create farmhouse crafts take them through the step-by-step process of turning raw wood boards and shelves into stained and stenciled farmhouse-inspired pieces. With clever sayings like “Home is where our story begins” or “Smith Family, Est. 2019,” it’s never been easier to create custom pieces in just a few hours.

Pottery

Pottery studios can now be found as stand-alone buildings or as franchised establishments in area shopping malls. Recipients can choose among various projects and walk away with a painted and fired treasure that can be displayed for years.

Brewing

With the rise of craft breweries, apprentice shops have turned up across the country. A craft beer experience gift may be just what a budding brewer needs to start creating his or her own beers.

Craft-inspired experience gifts can be customized for people with a wide range of interests.

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2019

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2019 | S11

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2019

S12 | THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2019

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Outdoor-inspired ideas for gifting

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When shopping for the outdoor enthusiast on their list this holiday season, shoppers can consider these gifts that cater to avid campers, hikers and explorers.

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Camping surprises

People who can’t resist sleeping under the stars will appreciate gifts that make camping excursions even more special. Kampgrounds of America offers gift cards that are accepted at any of their many campsites, which helps cover the fees for the site and camp store purchases.

Any new gear, whether it be sleeping bags/pads, water filtration devices, tents, fuel, or cooking supplies also make great gifts for campers. A high-quality cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven is a gift that can last for years.

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Hiking adventures

The right gear can make a hike even more enjoyable. A durable hiking pack, compass or GPS tracker, comfortable hiking shoes, polarizing sunglasses, collapsible hammock, and/

or hiking food packs make great gifts for seasoned or even novice hikers. Tickets for transportation to Appalachian Trail trailheads, or other notable trails across the country, also can be fitting gifts.

Cycling treats

Cycling can be a recreational pursuit, a means of commuting or a great way to shed a few pounds.

Research from Breakaway Research Group for People for Bikes found that 100 million Americans bike each year. Gifts focusing on cycling can appeal to cyclists of all ages. Gifts can include cleaning and lube kits, a mini tire inflater, portable repair tools, a bike phone mount, a wearable bicycle cable lock, and a bicycle storage rack.

The great outdoors beckons many people. Shoppers have numerous options at their disposal when looking for gifts for the outdoor enthusiasts on their shopping lists.

Save time

while holiday

shopping

The weeks between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day are exciting, joyous and memorable. With so much to do during that period, holiday shoppers may feel pressed for time.

However, savvy celebrants know there’s plenty of time to spread holiday cheer and still find the perfect gift.

Establish where to buy

One way to save time during the holiday season is to decide in advance where to shop for holiday gifts. Some people are firm believers in shopping in one department store, while others hop between retailers to find the best deals. Others strictly stick to online shopping or go the gift card route. Choosing a strategy in advance and sticking to it can make shopping less time-consuming.

Create a wish list

Even if you do not plan to shop online, use popular online retail sites like Amazon to browse for popular items and save them to a wish list. Then, with list in hand (either digitally or on paper), purchase items at local brick-and-mortar stores.

With sites like PriceGrabber, Google Shopping, Shopzilla, and PricePinx, its

Set up loyalty accounts

Create a separate email account strictly for retailer promotions and loyalty clubs. This way all sale information and coupon codes are sent to a single email address.

Ship directly

Instead of having items shipped to your home and then repackaging them for out-of-town relatives and friends, have them shipped directly to their final destination. Weigh the costs of having the merchant wrap the presents if you feel it’s necessary.

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Think about bulk gifts

Figure out one or two gifts that would be fitting for many people on your list and then buy them in bulk.

Assembling gift baskets of bulk items can save time, as putting the baskets together will become second nature after one or two baskets.

Save time and money with some smart holiday shopping strategies.

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2019

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

Live Theater

can be a memorable gift experience The experience of live theater is unlike any other.

Watching actors perform live on stage can be a wonder to behold, and many people even vividly recall the first play or musical they attended.

According to a survey conducted by Nielsen Scarborough in spring of 2016, more than 47 million Americans had attended a live theatre event within the past month. No matter if one is a lover of the arts or simply enjoys a night out on the town, live theater can make for the perfect holiday gift. Here’s how to make the gift of live theater happen this season.

Enroll in a discount ticket program.

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Explore the possibilities of discounted tickets through employers, schools or professional organizations.

Groups offer perks like enrollment in entertainment plans that are affiliated with theaters across the country.

Participation in these clubs can offset the cost of tickets.

Tap into a person’s interests.

Theater shows run the gamut from serious dramas to lighthearted musicals.

Find a show that you think fits the recipient. Many

new musicals are based on pop culture and can entertain just about anyone. For example, “The Cher Show,” “Jersey Boys,” “Beautiful,” and “Rock of Ages” have tapped into popular music as the crux of the storyline and can appeal to anyone who grew up listening to certain performers.

Look close to home.

While London’s West End and Broadway in New York City are the most renowned places for live theater, you don’t have to stray far from home to find quality performances. Many shows go on tours and visit various big cities. If you live close to a college campus or regional theater company, you can probably find great, budget-friendly performances nearby.

Make it a road trip.

If your mantra is “go big or go home,” then you can purchase tickets for a show having a run on Broadway.

Just be sure to include the travel arrangements and accommodations into the gift to make it worry-free for the recipient. Many Broadway tickets get discounted post-Christmas as a way to boost tourism during winter months. Consider this as a cost-saving measure.

Throw in a bonus.

Ensure lasting memories of live theater by including an original cast recording soundtrack, script, book on which the show was based, posters, or another memento of the show.

Live theater is a holiday gift that keeps on giving long after the curtain has come down.

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2019

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2019 | S15

Keep safety in mind when gifting toys Few people garner as much delight from opening holiday gifts as young children.

The holiday season is a wonder to behold, culminating with brightly wrapped presents just waiting to be revealed.

For parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and friends, nothing is more memorable than watching the pure joy on a child’s face when he or she opens a holiday gift. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission says there were more than 250,000 toy-related injuries treated in American hospital emergency departments in 2017. Most of these injuries were attributed to nonmotorized scooters, toy balls and toy vehicles. However, any toy that is not age-appropriate has the potential to cause harm. That is why the organization Prevent Blindness America, which spearheaded the campaign to make December Safe Toys and Gifts Month, advises caution when gifting youngsters.

The following are some guidelines when gifting young kids, courtesy of PBA, the CPSC and Kids Health®

by Nemours.

tronics, can be a choking hazard and cause damage to intestines if swallowed.

Toys with strings and straps can strangle young children and should be avoided.

Inspect all toys for sharp edges or points. Even

stuffed animals with internal wires can stab, cut or shock.

Avoid toys that have parts that fly off, as they can

injure the eyes or other parts of the body.

Look for nontoxic labels on toys, including cray-

ons, markers and other art supplies.

Toys made of fabric should be labeled as flame-resistant or flame-retardant.

Painted toys must use lead-free paint.

Always read labels to see if the toy is right for a child’s age. Don’t buy a toy

Look for the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) label,

that is too mature for a child even if you think it would be a big hit.

which signifies that the toy has passed the group’s safety inspection standards.

Consider a gift recipient’s temperament and behavior before purchasing a toy. While one child may be

Monitor toy usage during play, and frequently examine toys to see if wear and tear has made them into hazards.

mature enough to handle a toy, another of the same age may not be ready for it.

Recognize choking hazards in toys, which may include marbles, small balls and uninflated balloons. Button batteries, which come in many elec-

The holiday season is an exciting time for children eager to play with new toys and games. Ensuring those gifts are safe can make for a healthy giving season.

Gilbert’s A one-of-a-kind shop filled with surprising finds!

Your source for unique personalized gifts, holiday cards, paper goods, fashion accessories, invitations, stationery, calendars, and more . . .

72 CENTER SQUARE EAST LONGMEADOW 413•525•5084 Regular Hours

Monday through Saturday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Extended holiday hours

Sundays between December 8 and December 22: 12 noon to 5 p.m.

Visit us at facebook.com/gilbertswrittenword

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