Holiday Tip-Sheet for the Procrastinator

Cleveland, Ohio (November 2007) – It’s not their fault, it really isn’t. The procrastinator is in the position they are in because they simply haven’t had time with their busy schedules to prepare for the holidays. In fact, last year fifteen percent of all consumers had not begun any of their shopping as of December 5, according to the National Retail Federation.

Even the latest of last-minute shoppers can have a stress free holiday season. American Greetings lifestyle experts offer the following helpful hints that will be of use to these procrastinators (if they have left themselves enough time to read them, of course.)

Make the best use of the time you have: Use modern conveniences and opportunities to get last minute gifts and cards out. Many busy professionals actually send cards to colleagues via interoffice mail, or hand deliver gifts during pre and post season get togethers or office parties. In short, if you can put off buying the gift this very second, do so.

Escape the traffic: Try to take advantage of the usual extended hours and plan your shopping for earlier or later in the day. You will be able to eliminate a lot of the casual shoppers and those just “hanging-out” by doing so, which will make your trip much more efficient.

Take advantage of sales…seriously: Just because you weren’t able to get a jump on your shopping doesn’t mean you will be forced to pay top dollar. Retailers, recognizing the ever-increasing amount of procrastinators, are introducing late season sales to lure some of this growing consumer market. So even the latest of shoppers can still bargain hunt for the best deals. Be sure to check online and in your newspaper to see what specials are being offered before heading out.

Beg for help: Trying to get everything done at the last minute is difficult, trying to find the perfect gift for everyone with no time to spare, well that is just impossible. Ask friends and family members for tips to ensure that you choose the right color, size or style.

Be craftier and flexible in your gift presentation: Trendy gift bags can add style to any present, and fun gift cardholders increase the personalization of a convenient gift card to one of the recipient’s favorite stores or restaurants. If all else fails, you can of course always head to the gift-wrapping station at your mall. Just make sure no one sees you.

The new collection of holiday cards from American Greetings can be found at participating drug chains, grocery stores and super centers nationwide, as well as in American Greetings and Carlton Cards retail stores. Visit www.americangreetings.com/retailers for store locations.

About American Greetings Corporation
American Greetings Corporation (NYSE: AM) is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of social expressions products and greeting cards. Its product lines include gift wrap, party goods, stationery, calendars, ornaments and electronic greetings. Headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, American Greetings generates annual net sales of approximately $1.7 billion. For more information on the company, visit http://corporate.americangreetings.com.