How to win at last minute gifts: Gift shopping category_ide and giveaway

Without a game plan, picking up last minute holiday gifts and stocking stuffers can go south very quickly. Stores are packed to the brim with options. It is too tempting to impulse buy all kinds of specially packaged holiday dreck just to get it all over with. This is exceptionally true in the category of personal care and cosmetics.

Trying to make strategic choices while surrounded by aisles of prepackaged mini perfume sets, body wash & lotion duos, and limited edition eye shadow palettes, can be overwhelming. Harried searching and purchasing is never a good idea. If, hundreds of dollars later, you are left still standing with gifts you are less than excited about, it can’t bode well for your gift recipients.

Instead of going in unarmed, equip yourself to face the holiday gift rush by approaching it calmly and methodically, using this checklist as you consider the possibilities.

First, try to think of gifting in three basic categories:

A. Luxury items you know the recipient will love, but would never purchase for themselves. Ask: If you were that person, would this be a real splurge and a treat, or would this just be a very expensive tchotchke?

B. Whimsical items that might not be high ticket but elicit a feeling of joy in the person receiving it. Ask: If I received this, would it make me laugh? Would I get excited? Or is it just whatever? And…

C. Handy or useful items that the recipient will appreciate for their utility, bonus points if they are also fun and whimsical. Ask: Is this something that will always come in handy?

Also, unless you truly know someone well, steer clear of reaching for items that can be too personal, like new fragrances, or cosmetic products that must be specifically color-matched, like foundations.

And last: try not to get too swept up into holiday packaging, and gift sets. While you’ll get value out of buying these specially packaged goods, take a real look at what is inside. More is not always more, especially if it’s a box of Santa intarsia socks.

Good luck, good knowledge, and happy holiday shopping!

For more specific ideas please visit Made(up) in NY see a slide show of give suggestions and to enter a Christmas giveaway starting December 25th.