The tree is decorated, the mince pies are baking and the wine is mulling. But there are still gifts to be bought for the people you love.
Braving the high street in the winter weather and battling against all the other festive shoppers desperately seeking the perfect present is a daunting prospect.
Instead, do your homework on top selling gifts and head straight for the shelves that will deliver the goods.
If you’re searching for gift ideas for him, look no further than the gadget department. The latest techno toy will light up his Christmas. But beware – phones, cameras and notepads can be very individual and your fella may prefer to pick the design that best suits him. Play it safe with an accessory – a zip wallet for his iphone, headphones or a laptop case, for example.
Top Christmas gifts for her include jewellery and perfume. Get to know what she likes or take advice from a close friend. Spa packages usually hit the spot, especially if you combine them with a romantic weekend away.
Light-hearted presents showcase your fun side. Try a giant wine glass if she loves her Chardonnay, or a hamper of retro candy to satisfy her sweet tooth. If you’ve been seeing each other for a while, go for something fun you can do together like a course of dance lessons, a river cruise or tea for two.
Humorous stocking fillers should be designed to make him laugh – not groan – so choose something you know will tickle his funny bone. Belly button brushes, growing your own football pitch or a musical piano tie might just raise a smile.
Make it personal and choose from a range of gifts designed just for your loved one. Busy girls will appreciate a personalised calendar while chocoholics would cherish a big bar with their name on it. Monogrammed golf balls will be a hit with the swinger in your life and for car crazy folk, splash out on a personalised number plate.
Books and music always rate highly in the top sellers list. Browse shops for inspiration or go for something that’s made it to the charts. Compilation albums can be romantic and, for that personal touch, always write a heartfelt message in the books you give.
Choosing clothes for your loved one can be tricky at the best of times. Sizes vary and it’s easy to get the colour or styling wrong. The worst thing to give at Christmas is a chore – a trip to the shops to return an item during the January sales is demoralising. Instead, try a store voucher or book a personal shopping experience.
Everyone loves a traditional Christmas and the current trend for retro toys plays into that. Board games like Monopoly, Scrabble or Operation are big sellers as are big kids toys like race tracks and train sets.