subject: 5 Top Tips For Choosing Christmas Stocking Fillers [print this page] Forget the turkey, the post-lunch party games and Granny getting tipsy on chocolate liqueurs, the essence of Christmas can be found in one thing - the Christmas stocking. On Christmas morning it's the first thing we look for and each year we love finding one at the bottom of the bed crammed with more Christmas trinkets than the pockets of the three wise men... the more the better!
But that's not even the best bit.
As waistlines expand, carbon footprints go through the roof and our credit card implodes, stocking fillers keep the Christmas cheer dialled up without blowing the budget. In fact, stocking fillers have more festive spirit than the brandy-loaded pudding you'll be scoffing on the 25th. Here's why...
1. Quality versus Quantity
Christmas stockings are all about quantity. It's not to say that buying your loved ones a load of old tat is the way to go, but stocking fillers do mean you can laugh in the face of 'one main gift' and its huge price tag in favour of lots of little, way more affordable gift options. Afterall, who wants one present when you can have ten?
2. Bulk it Up
One-off gifts are like shooting with sniper rifles. They require thought and precision, but get the trajectory even slightly wrong and that special present could land way off the mark. With stocking fillers you can shoot your friends and family with a huge array of gifts. Think of them as the shot gun of the gift world; great value with a widespread delivery that's bound to hit the mark, sooner or later.
3. Keep it Cheap
For anyone trying to beat the Christmas excess and do the whole thing on something that resembles a budget, stocking fillers are a dream come true. You can't go into a shop in December without finding a selection of stocking fillers for under a tenner or even a fiver. Throw in a Satsuma and it's job done.
4. Theme it Up
If you're worried your stocking fillers are starting to repeat themselves and get a little "samey" try mixing things up with a Christmas stocking theme. Go for gadgets, chocolate, things that begin with the letter "T" - whatever floats your boat. It's an easy way to give the impression of thought without busting a brain cell over the "perfect" present.
5. Make Your Own
Usually one for crafters and arty folks but worth trying if you have a partner or love one who likes to dig out a Christmas stocking each year the size of a small space ship. Get the sentiment just right and it could halve the amount of stocking fillers you have to buy each year. Thoughtful and economical.
