It’s not that we begrudge home centers making their profit. In fact, we like them and shop there all the time. However, when I’m heading in to pick up some drywall anchors, a few potting planters, and an A/C filter and am confronted with a scene like this pictured above, I’m annoyed.
It’s nothing new: This same scenario has been played out earlier every season for the last 20 or so years. In our local big box the holiday trees went up on Labor Day. Here are a few tidbits to remember when navigating the buying rush this season.
First: Everything holiday-looking is full- (full actually meaning “over”) priced right now, and will remain so until the second week in December. Unless you plan on paying through the nose, leave it if you don’t need it.
Second: Ordering your holiday swag online will often let you avoid the lines and screaming children, as well as give you a decent break on pricing whenever you order it.
Third: How many light-up reindeer do you really need? I mean honestly, do you think they will begin to multiply on their own should you supply enough electricity and a hostility-free environment? (I’m talking to you, neighbor across the street; you’re making the rest of us look bad.)
Fourth: This year I’m going to support Nordstorm’s if at all possible. They have this great policy where they don’t start selling for one holiday until the current one is finished. My hat is off to them.
Regardless, hold on to your cash as much as you can, and you’ll find it makes for a happier holiday season.
