Find Perfect Last-Minute Gifts

Cindy Post Senning, the great-granddaughter of etiquette guru Emily Post, seems to have it all together.

She knows what wedding gifts to get. She knows how to make a great first impression. She even knows how to raise well-behaved kids.

But just like many of us, Senning can be found in the mall Dec. 24 frantically searching for that incredible gift she's been putting off buying.

Senning is a self-proclaimed last-minute shopper. And she's OK with that.

"It's worked for me for a lot of years," Senning said. "I kind of like that. I like that crunch. I'm a person that works better under a deadline."

Senning said she's tried to shop earlier, but every time she sees something a couple months before the holidays that would be perfect for someone on her list, she moves on. She knows she'll find something better -- or less expensive -- the next day.

But when she has to shop the day before Christmas, she suddenly becomes a very efficient shopper with a very distinct goal.

However, Senning warns that in order to become a truly talented last-minute shopper, one must plan ahead and have a general idea of what to get the people on your list.

Don't Wander

Susan Hook, senior director of public relations at RedEnvelope, also said the key to a successful holiday is being organized.

"If you are stuck doing last-minute shopping, at least take time to get yourself organized," Hook said. "There is nothing more stressful or counterproductive than aimlessly wandering around a crowded mall or surfing the Internet without a clue of what you are looking for."

First, you must set your budget. If a gift costs too much, you may come to resent it.

Senning said the next step is to find something that suits the person. But that may be hard to do.

Cynthia Townley Ewer, editor of the Organizedhome.com network and author of the book "Houseworks: Cut the Clutter, Speed Your Cleaning and Calm the Chaos," advises people to think about the interests, hobbies and favorite activities of the gift recipients.

What A Kid Wants

When shopping for children, Ewer said to ask for gift suggestions from an acquaintance of the same age group.

"You'll impress a niece or grandchild if you ask others their age for good gift ideas, even if you've never heard of Hot Topic or the iTunes music store," Ewer said.

Ewer's No. 1 tip on gift-giving for kids this holiday season is to avoid the "Grandma, you really shouldn't have" sweater with the childish snowman scene, which is sure to evoke teasing from peers.

Some of the easiest places to find last-minute gifts are big retailers that have long hours or are open all day and night. The discount chains also may try to help people out by cutting back prices on certain toys and games.

Gifting At Work

Although children may be difficult to shop for, it's the older folks you work with who are more difficult, especially if you're shopping under a deadline. With co-workers, you must be sure to get something appropriate, yet thoughtful.

However, Senning said she generally advises people to not give gifts to co-workers, unless the person is also a friend outside the office. In that case, don't give the gift while at work.

She said the best gift-giving to do interoffice is through games, such as white elephant exchanges.

If you do feel like giving co-workers gifts, Senning advises avoiding regifting, the process of taking a gift you received previously and passing it on. She also said she wouldn't give co-workers alcohol. But if you know some drinks coffee, get her a specialty brew.

She also suggested stationary and fun things for the desk.

"Because you know less about interests or preferences -- and to avoid offense -- aim for consumable gifts: something that can be consumed, used up or experienced," Ewer said.

Limit Your Options

Ewer suggested doing all your shopping in one place.

"It's not about the gifts, it's about the search," Ewer said. "Try a 'theme' for gift-giving to consolidate purchases and save time and shipping charges."

Ewer suggested using online shopping as a theme or even buying everyone subscriptions to magazines.

No matter when you decide to do your holiday shopping, remember: It's the thought that counts. Have fun, whether you're last-minute shopping or you started in March.

Hook advises making your shopping an adventure.

"Make it fun," Hook said. "If you have to brave the mall on Dec. 23, bring a friend and a sense of humor. Finish the day with a holiday cocktail as you each vow to being shopping in June next year."

Senning said her most important strategy is remaining calm.

"My advice just generally is to really try to be sane," Senning said. "This whole idea of giving and receiving gifts should be special and not something where we're trying to meet superimposed standards. Enjoy the time and enjoy giving the gift."