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Published - Wednesday, November 04, 2009
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Practical advice: Buy practical gifts
By Jessica Larsen / news@winonadailynews.com
Mark Wrolstad still remembers the Christmas his children got him a pink shirt that read “real men wear pink.” He returned it soon after.
Wrolstad, chairman of the Winona State University Finance Department, doesn’t want others to spend their money on gifts that will have the same fate. Just keep it practical and not too cute, he advises.
As thousands set out for the packed parking lots and store aisles this shopping season, consumer experts warn to research what you want to buy, find the best price and buy only what you went to the store for.
“When it comes to gifts, people often are quick to spend instead of researching what they should buy,” said Kathy Grannis, spokeswoman for the National Retail Federation.
Wrolstad suggests the Internet as one way to make sure you are getting the best deal. “At least check it out for prices,” he said. “After that, you are armed and can reasonably go and check out places that have it.”
The National Retail Federation reports many shoppers buy their gifts weeks before Black Friday. “Retailers are advising people to buy it when you see it,” Grannis said. “Because the cost might go up or the item might be gone.”
But for those who cannot afford the full price right away, layaway has been coming back as a popular option, Wrolstad said.
“It was common when I was a kid,” he said. “I have heard less and less about it until now. This is the first year I heard it advertised.”
For shoppers who have no idea what to get that person who has everything, Wrolstad suggests something hand-made or edible. But if you do find something you think the person may like, hold on to the receipts, just in case. s
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