We all know that lunch time on Christmas Eve or the weekend before December 25 is the busiest and most stressful time to be shopping for presents, but when’s the best?
We quizzed two stress-free shoppers at Bluewater on when and how they pick up their gifts and stay serene.
‘The Lark’ – Jodie Marshall, 31, from Tunbridge Wells
Why do you shop in the morning?
Being a busy working mum I try to go shopping outside of peak times, usually early in the morning as it's less busy.
My boys (13 and 15) aren't fans of shopping, so if I do have to take them with me then the best scenario is less queues and less people so that we can get what we need done without too much hanging around.
What are the advantages?
I find it easier to browse first thing in the morning, as it’s often a more relaxed atmosphere. I get up early anyway and if the shopping is done first then it leaves a whole day to do other activities.
Plus, the stores aren’t as busy, so shop staff have more time to speak to you and help with any queries you may have.
Any other Christmas shopping tips?
When I'm shopping for presents I always try to have a list of what I'm looking for before I go so that I don't end up walking around for hours and not finding anything.
On a big shopping trip it’s always nice to stop for a coffee or a bite to eat as well so that I can have a look at what I've bought and work out what's left to find.
‘The Owl’ – Danielle Taylor, 26, from Rochester
Why do you shop in the evening?
I usually do my Christmas shopping in the evening, mainly as it’s more convenient for me as I work full time hours. I like that it’s often quieter to look around the shops later on, which I find more relaxing.
What are the advantages?
Staff members are easier to get help from when I need their advice. I also find that there are plenty of parking spaces to choose from when the shops are open later and there are fewer queues, so you can get loads done in just one evening.
Do you have any other Christmas shopping tips?
My shopping tip would be to budget for each person you are buying for and to start as early as possible, so your December pay check is for you to spend on yourself.
From December 7, Bluewater is open from 9am to 11pm in the run-up to Christmas, with everything you need under one roof including inspirational gift ideas from top retailers, extensive dining options and festive entertainment.
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