Holiday shopping 101

Be it for your mother, father, partner or best friend, the idea of gift shopping can be a nerve jangling experience. This year, however, how about kicking the habit of purchasing ghastly gifts?

For you, dear readers, the Vanguard has painstakingly sought out and compiled a list sure to satisfy even the most discerning of Christmas consumers, custom-tailored to fit the college student budget. Ranging from local vendors to the far-flung recesses of the Internet, you’re sure to find something for everyone.

Shopping for boyfriends

Let’s face it: Guys should be easy. When shopping for men, you can’t go wrong with superfluous electronics. Any gadget that makes life vaguely easier, or saves imperceptible amounts of time, is probably something we can’t live without.

Take, for example, the USB Beverage Cooler/Warmer. Unless his computer is conveniently placed within arm’s reach of the fridge/microwave, the man in your life probably needs this. This item can be found at www.usbgeek.com for $22.

However, if the idea of precariously balancing drinks next to your computer is unappealing, then maybe the iCarta iPod dock is for you. A two-in-one toilet paper dispenser/iPod dock with speakers, the iCarta is an absolute necessity for extended bathroom visits, or solo karaoke sessions in the shower. Find it at www.amazon.com for $40.

For the less tech-oriented boyfriend, try the Paradise Pen Company in the Pioneer Square Mall. With a wide variety of sophisticated pens, any man will feel like a champ taking notes in style. The Padrino Contour is highly recommended.

Shopping for girlfriends

Have you ever bought a girlfriend a wireless mouse for Christmas? That’s a mistake you’ll only make once. Instead, saunter over to Northwest 23rd Avenue. Despite its status as the Rodeo Drive of Portland, it’s easy to get inspired once you get there.

A good place for some serious last-minute shopping is LUSH, which advertises fresh, handmade cosmetics. You really can’t go wrong here. A large selection of hand soaps and lotions can be purchased for under $20, and for what it’s worth, the friendly staff at LUSH will let you sample the items in-store before you buy. This place is great for moms, too.

Maybe your girlfriend is more the hipster type (it is Portland, after all). Try the 12-inch vintage vinyl record bowl at www.modernartisans.com for only $26.99. Designed by Jeff Davis, these dishes are perfect to accent any dorm or apartment, and are sure to please.

For a truly inspired gift, check out Urban Outfitters, right off of Burnside on 23rd Avenue. It has a plethora of eccentric gifts, from hilarious coffee table books and decadent scarves to quirky and cute kitchenware. This place is a one-stop shop for gifts.

Shopping for friends

Shopping for friends should be fun and easy. Unless you have a serious sentiment you’d like to add to your gift, just relax and pick something humorous and quirky. An inflatable moose head, for instance, can be found for $19.95 at www.amazon.com.

If novelties aren’t your style, books can be the perfect gift. Right now, Powell’s Books is celebrating the holiday season by offering gift packages—a combination of gift cards and Powell’s merchandise.

For the “artsy” friend, don’t overlook Paper Source, a local stationary shop that covers all your homemaking needs. It’s located at 638 NW 23rd Ave.

Seasonal “pop-up shops” and other hot spots

For the holiday season, Portland is privileged to host several pop-up shops in the downtown area. These temporary seasonal gift shops offer locally made arts and crafts to fulfill a wide variety of gift-shopping needs. Check out Crafty Wonderland (www.craftywonderland.com) for all things way too cute. For a complete list of pop-up shops, visit www.downtownportland.org.

For even more amazing handmade goods, consider the “Super Colossal Holiday Sale” at the Oregon Convention Center on Dec. 11–12. ?