Time is our most precious commodity so why waste it on trivial pursuits? Following is a list of creative solutions that take you out of the firing line (or as it were the register/layby lines)!

5 minutes before saves time at the store!

If you must visit a store for that essential gift, be sure to do your research beforehand. Time scanning the ads for the best price and closest location not only saves time in transit but removes the nagging doubt that a better offer exists.  

Special note:  always consider the Pro’s and Con’s of any ad.  If a store offers a cheaper price but is further away or in a shopping centre that’s loaded with distractions and or crowds it may not be the best choice after all. Popular shopping centres often run out of stock first, so it pays to call ahead and if possible request they set aside your item at layby or pay for it with credit card for immediate pick it up.  If a destination is likely to cost you petrol, patience or persuade your pocket out of more money on impulse purchases, then it is not the best choice so move on to the next ad with the lowest price.

You won’t lose if you set out when others snooze!

To avoid being pushed from pillar to post or blowing a fuse in the fuss and confusion of regular shopping hours, consider doing your gift buying before others are awake or just retiring.

Come prepared so arguments are spared!

If you have the ad in hand, with price, date and policies clearly laid out the store and staff  won’t have grounds for dispute as can happen when barcodes or labels haven’t been updated properly.  Also if you know the policy of a store is to price match then use that to full advantage and take the evidence with you!

Surf the screen to stay serene!

On a global scale shopping from home helps save the planet by reducing green house admissions whilst minimizing our effect on resources.  Besides this obvious bonus it affords us the peace of mind that comes with shopping at our own convenience.  The internet when used with caution will become your best friend during the holiday season.  To avoid fraud and disappointment it is best to shop with recognized sites and those with secure payment services but otherwise the possibilities are endless.  You can find vintage/collectables that general stores simply won’t carry, unique crafts that support communities and special gifts from the heart that raise funds and awareness for important causes.

Here are a few of my favorites:

From the Snow Leopard Trust (Snow Leopard Enterprises- supporting communities, preserving habitats and helping save endangered snow leopards).

Holiday Gift Sets

Cat and mouse stocking stuffer: A game of cat and mouse has never looked cuter! This is a purrfect gift for you AND your kitties (and all of your cat loving friends!)

… more info

Dinner Party: Perfect for anyone who loves to entertain! Get everything you need to adorn your table with one-of-a-kind items that are sure to please.

… more info

KidZone: Make the child in your life the coolest kid on the playground, with this Snow Leopard T-Shirt and Yakisac Toy!

… more info

Love your Leopards: The ideal gift for anyone who is hard to shop for, but loves snow leopards and would enjoy a great selection of products to support their favorite…

… more info

Pamper your Lil’ Cub: A perfect gift for a future conservationist! Have your little one show off their cub pride in this organic cotton onesie and other goodies!

… more info

Trim your Tree: These ornaments are perfect to add a unique touch to your Holiday Tree. If a tree is not your thing, they also make great package toppers!

… more info

From Vital Ground (protecting vital ground one acre at a time).

Click on the image to download a copy!

From the Cheetah Conservation Fund (be apart of the solution and help support research on cheetahs and their ecosystems, implement sustainable programs in conservation).

Click on the image for more info!

Click on the cover for your free download!

A wildlife treasure and one of the most beautiful and elusive creatures on earth, the snow leopard needs your support to survive.  In the Nov/Dec Issue of Bare Essentials Magazine OUT NOW, we take a look at this majestic cat and the many ways you can help ensure their future.  With Christmas just around the corner and a fantastic selection of handmade crafts from Snow Leopard Enterprises, why not spread the spirit of the season and help support community efforts to protect the snow leopard.  

To find out more checkout page 26 of the Nov/Dec Issue of B.E.