Black Friday Blahness: The Anti-Black Friday Shopping Guide

I know that being a budget fashion site I should have multitude of things to say and resources to share for the Black Friday sales happening this year. However I never understood the monolith shopping sojourn that took place in the wee hours of Friday morning. Yes there are savings to be had, but not everyone on you gift giving list want electronics or a cashmere sweater being peddled as big bargains. So what do you do when you come home from the shopping marathon and there are a few pesky people still on you list. Get creative and think outside the box, in fact some of these gifts might not need a box at all.

1) Small Business Saturday: If you still have that shopping thirst that was not quenched on Friday, how about shopping your local small businesses on Saturday.  This is the second year of small business Saturday a day designed to support small business on one of the biggest shopping days of the year.  Log on to http://smallbusinesssaturday.com/ to learn more and check out their Facebook page to make the pledge to shop small.


2) Gift Certificates for Services: In the same vein of supporting local businesses how about getting some of the recipients on your gift list a certificate at a spa, hair salon, or nail salon.  These pampering services might not be on the top of their list, but they will sure be thankful to cash in these relaxing rewards after the holiday rush is over.

Class at Beads in White Plains

3) A Class or Course: This one can be tricky, but if you know someone who is always looking to learn something new, this might be a good option. Maybe they have a new DSLR that they want to learn how to use, or they are always saying they want to learn a new language.  Then the learner in your life would definitely appreciate a non credit course at the local college or an evening workshop at a local craft shop.

Crochet Flower Garland, BobbiLewin, $40

4) Something Crafty: Okay so maybe you aren't the most crafty person around, but there are probably quite a few talented people in your town.  Look for local craft fairs, or street fairs where you can snap up unique handmade items. None to be had in your neighborhood, then headonline and support artisans with online shops on sites like Etsy, Beehive Design Cooperative, Silkfair, ArtFire, or Shop Hand Made.






This is just a start to the alternative holiday shopping, did it give you any ideas or help with your planning?  Do you have any suggestions for different holiday gifts? Leave your suggestions in the comments box below.