Sprenzy Shopping Blog

It’s December 22nd and next day shipping isn’t an option anymore. If you still have holiday shopping to finish, you have two choices: 1) brave the real world, hit the streets/traffic and actually go to a crazy brick and mortar store or 2) procrastinate a little longer, relax with your favorite beverage and buy an online gift certificate.

If you chose option 2, here are a few suggested stores where you can send a gift certificate via email.

• Amazon.com - get anything from books, electronics, household items and groceries. No matter who the recipient is, he or she will find something on Amazon.com.

• REI - for the outdoor enthusiast: cycling, camping, hiking, climbing, skiing, boarding, if it ends with an “ing” and you can do it outside, you’ll find the right gear here. REI has great customer service and return policy if you aren’t satisfied with a product.

• iTunes - for the music aficionado. I love my iPods and iTunes software but I’m not a fan of DRM music and the low bit-rate you get when purchasing music from iTunes. Nevertheless, you procrastinated and this is an easy way to give music to iPod owners.

• Netflix - introduce movie buffs to renting DVDs through the mail and the movie queue concept.

• Zappos - perfect for the shoe fanatic. Zappos offers free shipping/returns and 365 days to return an item. Order 10 shoes of different styles or sizes, try them on at home and return the ones you don’t want with no hassle. This site is dangerous for the shoe obsessed.

• Charitable Donation - if you can’t decide on a gift or know someone who has everything, then make a charitable donation in their name. Check out Charity Navigator to help you decide on an appropriate charity organization.

Let me know if you have any other good last minute gift ideas. And Happy shopping to all of you still looking for gifts!

I want to wish everyone a very Happy Thanksgiving. I hope your turkey day is filled with close friends, wonderful family and delicious food. I’m looking forward to a five spice rubbed deep fried turkey, great side dishes and dessert!

I leave you with two videos. The first is Adam Sandler singing his Thanksgiving song. The second video shows a Black Friday rush at Wal-Mart. The video is slightly disturbing and the reason why I avoid shopping at brick and mortar stores, especially during the holiday season.

Obviously, I recommend online shopping in the comfort of your home and PJs. But if you have to venture out to shop, have fun, be careful and stay safe! Again, Happy Thanksgiving.