Gift Ideas for the Last-Minute Shopper

If you're like millions of Americans who consider themselves procrastinators, you may still be wandering the shopping malls or perusing last-minute deals online to finish up your holiday shopping. And that’s okay because there are still plenty of holiday sales and gift items out there. The only thing that isn’t on your side at this late date is time — but we’ve got you covered. Here are some ideas you might consider if you are still looking for that perfect holiday gift to complete your shopping list this season.

It's not too late to personalize it

Personalized gifts are on trend these days. And while it may be too late to get a customized child's rocker made, some gifts can still be personalized quickly and shipped out the same day, arriving in plenty of time for Christmas. Check out personalizedmall.com, where you can order anything from personalized blankets to maple cutting boards in minutes. If you prefer something that says “’tis the season,” the site sells a lot of holiday-themed gifts too. With many items, rush orders are delivered as quickly as two business days after the order is placed.

Some personalized gifts can still be completed by Christmas.

The local merchants appreciate you

It's always nice to support your local businesses. And if you live in a place that has a local shopping district, why not spend an afternoon browsing through the shops? You will get the benefit of enjoying holiday music, decorated stores, and even gift wrapping in some shops — and the merchants will welcome you with open arms. Many downtown districts offer an array of eclectic shops, from independent bookstores to unique clothing boutiques, to gift shops offering specialized products such as gourmet coffees and imported teas or olive oils. They say that small businesses are the lifeblood of the U.S. economy, and in fact, a recent study says they generate about 44 percent of economic activity in the country. When you venture out to buy from those brick-and-mortar and mom-and-pop shops, you can feel pride in having supported a shopping sector that adds so many options to your shopping choices.

Downtown Lititz Pennsylvania offers a wonderful mix of eclectic shops. (photo credit:lancasteronline.com)

Speaking of local, Hearthside Furniture is a local, family-owned business in Lititz, Pennsylvania, in the heart of Lancaster County. If you happen to be out browsing the many shops in our area, check out these gift ideas, which we have ready to send home with you:

Our Magic Motion Clocks are beautifully crafted and quartz battery-operated. They play one of many melodies every hour on the hour and will be a conversation piece for your gift recipient’s home. If you'd like to add a little light to the life of one of someone on your gift list, a beautiful lamp may do the trick. And any home can use a nice scent — especially if it gives off a holiday vibe, like Cinnamon & Cranberries or Victorian Christmas. Yum! Check out our supply of ready-to-go candles.

The Magnificent Magic Motion Clock is in stock and makes a perfect last-minute gift.

Give the Gift of Experience

Did you know that a majority of Americans say they would rather be gifted experiences than physical gifts? That opens up lots of opportunities for last-minute gift decisions that are still on your plate. The “foodie” on your list may savor a gift certificate to a favorite local restaurant, the adventurer may treasure a hot air balloon ride, and the RV traveler might enjoy a year-long national parks pass. And one of the best things about these gifts, if you are one of those procrastinators still searching for the perfect gift — is that they can be purchased from the comfort of your couch and still make it in time for Christmas.