Holiday shopping can be a minefield of clever marketing tactics designed to make you spend more. Understanding these tricks can help you make smarter choices. First, beware of urgency tactics. Phrases like "limited time offer" or "flash sale" are meant to rush you into buying. Remember, products are always being made, so that "last chance" deal might not be so last ...
Gen Z is taking the lead in Black Friday shopping, while older generations prefer to wait until closer to Christmas. This trend is highlighted in a recent survey, which shows that 40% of Gen Z and 32% of millennials plan to do most of their holiday shopping on Black Friday. The allure of Black Friday for younger shoppers is likely due to the exciting deals and social...
The holiday season is here, and with it comes the rush to buy gifts. But before you head to the big stores, consider this: shopping local can make a big difference. Small businesses in Batavia are filled with unique gifts and decorations that you won't find anywhere else. By choosing to shop small, you're not just getting special items, you're also helping your commu...
Looking for the perfect gift for a sports fan? Consider commemorative books that celebrate Florida's recent victories. These books are not just for show; they offer a deep dive into the stories behind the wins. The first book, "Not So Fast, My Friend, " is a tribute to Lee Corso, a legendary figure in college football. It's packed with insider stories about his care...
Celebrities often set trends, and this holiday season, their favorite things can be yours too. Nordstrom has a list of gifts loved by stars like Oprah, Taylor Swift, and Jennifer Garner. These picks are not only trendy but also practical and affordable, with prices starting at just $40. One standout is the Brooks Revel 8 Running Shoe, which Jennifer Garner adores. T...
Criminals are using a new trick called "jugging" to steal from people during the holidays. This is when thieves follow shoppers from ATMs, banks, or stores to take their cash or gifts. The FBI says this crime happens more often during the holiday season because people carry large amounts of money or expensive presents. In Houston, a 70-year-old man was recently robb...
The Conservation Foundation is putting on a free event to talk about how shopping choices can help the planet. It's called \"Shopping with the Environment in Mind\" and will happen on November 21 at McDonald Farm in Naperville. The event is from 4:30 to 5:30 p. m. Diane Osgood, an environmental economist from Oswego, will be the speaker. She wrote a book called \"Yo...
Choosing the right fitness gift can be tricky, but why not take inspiration from the stars? Many celebrities have shared their favorite workout gear and accessories, giving us a clue about what might make a great present. From cozy hoodies to high-tech gadgets, there's something for everyone. Leggings are a staple in any workout wardrobe, and stars like Kyle Richard...
Trading cards are back in a big way, and it's not just kids who are excited. Adults are also getting into the hobby, driven by nostalgia and the fun of collecting. Big stores like Target and Walmart are noticing this trend and stocking up on cards for the holiday season. Sales of trading cards have been going up steadily. Strategic card sales, which include things l...
December was a month to remember for small businesses in the U. S. , with sales picking up speed as holiday shoppers rushed to finish their gift lists. The Fiserv Small Business Index, which tracks transactions from about 2 million small businesses, climbed to 146 in December, a 3-point increase from November. This rosy report reflects data from card, cash, and check...