Affordable Spots For Holiday Shopping & Tips To Avoid Spending Mistakes
- Create an overall holiday spending budget. This budget should include the amount of money that you would like to spend on family, friends, service people, teachers of your children and everyone else on your list. Whatever amount is set aside is the amount that you have -- in total! -- to spend.
- Make a plan for what you are going to buy. Don't figure out what you are going to buy while in the store. Shopping without a plan and buying gifts spontaneously is one way to go over budget and overspend. Instead, make a list of what you plan to buy and the cost of each item for each person and make sure they are all within your budget.
- Don't bring your charge card. Use cash to pay for holiday gifts. With a credit card, or even a debit card, you are tempted to overspend.
- Avoid merchant card trap. Don't be tempted to make a purchase with the promise of a percentage off in exchange for signing up for a store credit card. When signing off for a credit card, you're guaranteed to start the year off in debt.
Start here for where to shop and save this holiday season.
1219 Locust St.
Philadelphia, PA 19107
(215) 834-1744
kembrel.com
For the men on your holiday list, snag unique, stylish pieces from the Center City boutique Kembrel. Find menswear items created by independent and local designers, including cuff links ($35) and shirts ($29). No matter your budget, you'll find an item available for the fashionisto in your life, with selections that are updated weekly. In addition to the affordable prices, annual VIP members of the site are given an additional 20 percent off of purchases.
simplyadeline.com
If you have a jewelry lover on your list, look no further than the one-of-a-kind jewelry designs of Simply Adeline. Launched by designer Jennifer Boyle of Ridley Park, the jewelry collection includes a range of custom-made rings ($32) and necklaces ($18 to $35). Choose between designs made of engraved clay with rhinestones, mosaic tiles and ceramic that are specially created to fit your holiday season needs.
29 S. High St.
West Chester, PA 19382
(610) 436-8181
shopniche.com
The stylish fashionista on your list will love the fun, edgy options from Nich Boutique. Located in the West Chester area, this boutique carries inexpensive items that are ideal for keeping you on budget while holiday shopping. Whether it's a cool pair of shades ($10) perfect for rocking during the cooler months, or a fabulous knit, this fashion-forward boutique has something for everyone on your list. When signing up for the mailing list, you will also be updated on sales and receive coupons.
8236 Germantown Ave.
Chestnut Hill, PA 19118
(267) 336-7259
shop.hipsterhome.com
For the perfect host or hostess gift, visit Hipster Home in Chestnut Hill. Here you will find a modern collection of home furnishings and accessories ideal for the home entertainer on your list. Instead of bringing another bottle of wine (like last year...and the year before), consider a wine rack ($25), which is functional and will last much longer. In case you can't decide on what to get, a gift card in any denomination is always a good idea here.
Related: Top Picks for Goods for the Home
8127 Germantown Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19118
(215) 242-1600
oxfordcircustoys.com
For the young children on your list, make their holidays even brighter with the toy of their dreams. At Oxford Circus Toys in Chestnut Hill, choices range from $5 to $300. Whether you're looking for small stocking stuffers or a moderately priced toy, shopping here ensures you find the right fit. Even eco-friendly shoppers will find options that are perfect for the special people on their list.
