Last Minute Holiday Gifts

If you're still searching for that perfect last minute gift, Sue Perry, Deputy Editor of ShopSmart Magazine, has some ideas that won't even require a trip to the mall.

If you have a fun-loving guy or gal in your life, you might want to visit www.BeerOnTheWall.com. Similar to a "beer of the month" club, Perry likes this website because it allows you to customize labels. "It shows that you've put a little more thought into a last minute gift," says Perry. There is a slight drawback, though. "There are about ten states that don't allow you to transfer alcohol over the state line, so if you live in one of those states, you're out of luck," says Perry. Be sure to place your order by 11:00am PST on December 23rd, though, if you want it to be delivered by Christmas.

A site with less restrictions is www.FragranceNet.com. This perfume website offers steep discounts - 20%-60% - and specializes in hard-to-find fragrances. "Isn't that a lovely thing, to get something for somebody that they're having a hard time finding?" says Perry. Orders placed by December 22nd will be shipped in time for Christmas.

For a more personalized touch, consider visiting www.ImageKind.com. "Not only can you have your own pictures and things framed very artfully here, you can get on and get prints and photographs that are very personal to somebody," says Perry. The site has a "gift suggestions" section that offers ideas for chefs, music lovers, wine enthusiasts and more. For Christmas delivery, order online by December 22nd by noon.

If you'd like to purchase an item and have it monogrammed, visit www.RedEnvelope.com. "There is nothing more personal than getting a monogrammed gift," says Perry. Red Envelope is accepting orders up to 3:00pm on December 23rd for Christmas delivery.

For something truly unique, click on www.UncommonGoods.com. "They've got a whole bazaar full of fabulous gifts," says Perry. "Order by the 23rd and you're good to go."

For more information on shopping smarter, visit www.ShopSmartMag.com.

By Erin Shea