It's The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year: Black Friday

It's finally here, Black Friday, the official start of the holiday shopping season (despite the fact that holiday decorations have been up since October). If you're anything like me, you won't be out shopping (way to many people=way to much stress for me). Truth be told there are a lot of great deals out there today but unfortunately I will miss out because 1. I'm too much of a procrastinator to be this efficient and start early and 2. I do absolutely no activities that involve the words "4am". But for you girls who enjoy the tradition of getting out there early and braving the crowds: On your mark, get set, go! But, with so many deeply discounted choices you wouldn't want to venture out without a plan.

• Set a budget- Make a list of who you need to buy gifts for (I'll make sure to get you all my sizes) and estimate how much you can spend on each gift. I would add about 20% more to whatever total you come up with. Now you've created your budget, just make sure you stick to it.
  
• Create a signature gift- It would be nice to take the time and get everyone a personal gift, however in the real world we have a million things to tend to and limited time. Of course for your immediate family, gift shopping will have to be a little more time consuming. But think about all the other people on your list (aunts, cousins, a best friend, the hosts of all the Christmas parties you'll soon be invited to). What if you could give a really thoughtful signature gift like a beautiful coffee table book, a framed picture of you and the gift recipient, or a luxurious candle (can you say-very cool and simple). Take your signature gift to the next level by creating a signature look for your gift wrap that screams it's a gift from you. Streamline the way you wrap gifts by picking a color scheme and wrapping all your gifts in the same manner (i.e. solid red paper & gold ribbon).
  
• Shop Online- Why not skip the crowds altogether and shop online. You can get many of the same deals online and many retailers are offering a number of coupon codes (free shipping, extra percentage off, etc). Check out some of the online coupon codes here. You can also check out sites like http://www.blackfriday.com/, http://www.blackfriday.info/ or http://www.blackfridayads.com/ for additional info on in-store and online sales. Online shopping is personal favorite of mine. I mean, where else can you peruse the merchandise of your favorite store in your underwear at 2:00AM and not get arrested?
  
• Avoid gift cards- I have received countless emails about store closings in the new year. It's no secret that retailers are having a hard time this year and some are either going out of business or dramatically downsizing (i.e. Mervyns, Linen & Things, Circuit City). If the store's out of business, so is the gift card. I've been known to hold on to a gift card for over a year waiting for the best opportunity to use it. It's best to err on the safe side and buy a gift (Aww, you shouldn't have).
  

*Oh and don't forget to wear comfortable shoes (see Smart Shopping)