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BLOG: ShopSmart Holiday Gifts Sites Under $25

By Jim Donovan: Holiday shoppers can find the perfect gift for almost everyone on their list for $25 or less. The December 2012 issue of ShopSmart, from Consumer Reports, highlights 25 great sites that offer everything from silly stocking stuffers to socially responsible gift items.

The magazine has allowed me to share five of the sites from their December issue with you.  Here they are:

OldTimeCandy.com has a variety of retro candy including Bottle Caps, Pixy Stix, and Razzles ─ perfect gift ideas for friends and family members with a sweet tooth. The site offers age-targeted kits, such as a 2-pound 1970s box for $24, or shoppers can create their own customized collection. Shipping starts at $7; orders must be placed by December 16 (midnight EST) for guaranteed delivery by Christmas.

Pier1.com is the online dwelling of home furnishings retailer Pier 1 imports. Their new website features many well-priced goodies including Indian-crafted brass candle snuffers starting at $8. Shipping starts at $4.95; orders must be placed by December 16 for guaranteed delivery by Christmas.

SetBoutique.com features clothing, jewelry, bags, and housewares from socially responsible manufacturers. The site will donate $5 to a charity of shoppers' choice when they spend $20 or more. Shipping starts at $5.10; orders must be placed by December 20 for guaranteed delivery by Christmas.

Vat19.com is a site where tongue meets cheek. Shoppers can pick up unique items, including a half-pound of gummy bears on a stick starting at $9.99 or a USB-powered beverage warmer/ cooler for $19.99. Flat-rate shipping is $4.99; orders must be placed by December 17 for guaranteed delivery by Christmas.

Wag.com has pet-related gifts covered. Shoppers can select items such as a doggie tuxedo, $19.95 or a carrot-shaped rabbit toy, $3.39. Shipping starts at $4.99 and is free for orders $49 or more; orders must be placed by December 19 for guaranteed delivery by Christmas.

The report also features nine great sites for presents under $50, five that offer do-good gifts, and six sites and apps that can help last-minute shoppers get gifts in an instant. Each of these sites meets ShopSmart's requirements for privacy, contact info disclosure, and service, and while some don't offer free shipping, the gifts themselves are a great value.

For more information visit: www.ShopSmartmag.org

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