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Shop Locally For Unique And Special Gifts
Along shopping strips throughout Queens, merchants welcome the sound of bells at this time of year-bells that signal crowds of shoppers plunking down cash and plastic for just the right gift for that special someone. Shop owners are hoping for a strong shopping season this year, bolstered by a healthier economy and a drop in unemployment. With just 31 shopping days between Thanksgiving, Chanukah and Christmas this year, folks will be hitting the stores earlier, braving a promised wave of cold weather and nerve-frazzling crowds. Chances are you have already given some thought about what to give the people on your holiday list. But just in case your holiday shopping happened to sneak-up on you this year, we've shopped ahead to help you find great value and selection at local shops that offer gifts to fit even the most discerning tastes. A large selection of fine jewelry sparkles from the windows of shops along Broadway, Steinway Street, 30th Avenue and Ditmars Boulevard, including 14- carat gold chains, bracelets, watches and charms. Gift-givers can choose from a large selection of religious charms, "fun" charms, diamond earrings and bracelets, along with an assortment of engagement rings for shoppers who plan to pop the question. Create your own jewelry by working with craftsmen at several local jewelry stores where you can design jewelry to your own specifications at prices that won't exhaust your wallet. Local video shops are offering several unique gifts. Create a "Living Album", a package that transfers 100 of your favorite photos or slides to CDs or DVDs. Ask for special titling and music, a perfect finish for a perfectly personal gift. Several shops are offering a truly unique gift-a glass "snowball". customfit with your favorite photo or the favorite photo of a special someone on your shopping list. Shake the glass ball and watch as dozens of snowflakes surround the photo. It's a different, unique and thoughtful alternative to the usual holiday fare. The snowballs can be ordered at photo shops and pharmacy photo stops throughout Astoria and Long Island City. You can also choose from a huge selection of comforters, bed-in-bag sets, tablecloths, holiday and everyday dinnerware and table accessories and more at great discount prices. Clothing stores, sneaker specialty shops, cosmetic and "scent" shops are also offering gift cards and certificates for those who prefer to make their own choices. Officials at the city Department of Consumer Affairs are offering some tips for holiday shoppers. • Don't get caught up in the rush of holiday shopping. Don't make mistakes that could cost you in January. • Save receipts and indicate (if the receipt is not pre-printed) exactly what you purchased, and when you purchased the item(s). • Make sure you familiarize yourself with store policy regarding returns and refunds. If you can't bring it back, it might not be such a bargain. • Make sure you get all warranty cards and similar information enclosed in items that are covered by manufacturers. • Be like Santa - make a list. Think of who to give, what to give and where to shop for it. • Figure out your budget. Decide how much you can spend and try not to go over that amount. Remember, a little caution could prevent a lot of post-holiday headaches. • When returning gifts, make sure you're credited for the full price you paid. Many stores try to refund items at post-season prices, even when you are entitled to the full purchase price. Here's one final tip, courtesy of your favorite weekly newspaper. How about a gift subscription to the Queens Gazette for that homebound or hard-toplease person? It's seasonal, informative and user-friendly! Happy shopping! And while you're out there, don't forget to stop and see Santa! |
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