Plans for presents this Christmas
Review speaks to residents to hear how they do their Christmas shopping.
POLOKWANE – Christmas time is present time and every family has its own Christmas gift traditions and plans of action.
Review speaks to residents to hear how they do their Christmas shopping.
Some say they prefer to buy presents during the year, whenever they find great discounts, while others say the last minute Christmas shopping rush is part of their Christmas fun.
Mpho Leolo is an exhibitor at Savannah Mall and says people used to splurge around Christmas time, but these days they are more cautious with their money.
“I notice that people walk around with fewer shopping bags than in the past. I think our economic culture has changed. People are trying to save as much as possible in this challenging economic climate,” she says.
According to Hannah Phiri, also an exhibitor at Savannah Mall, she has noticed that this year, the mall was less busy than in previous years.
“It might pick up closer to Christmas, but I think people try to save as much as they can,” she says.
Hannah says she buys gifts throughout the year, but will still buy some special last minute gifts closer to Christmas.
“If I come across an item that I think will make an ideal gift for someone, I will buy it and keep it until Christmas, but that does not mean I will not do any shopping this Christmas.”
Thibedi Ramashala says he prefers the Christmas rush.
“That way, I also get to experience the Christmas spirit in the shops. With many shops having many festive season sales on, it is ideal to shop around for presents. I also like to buy gift cards. As long as I can get a gift that is suitable, I will buy it. If it is at a reduced price, you bet I will want to have it. Christmas is good for business,” he says.
Corrie du Toit says it will be an impossible task for her to buy presents during the year and keep them for Christmas, because she would use it herself instead of gift wrapping it.
“I prefer to shop just before Christmas, because I like to wrap the presents when the Christmas spirit is in the air. I let my children write letters to Father Christmas to say what they want for Christmas. I prefer to give presents that my children can use for a long time, like bicycles,” she says.
Ans van der Walt says she doesn’t spend money on Christmas gifts.
“I believe the greatest gift anyone can get for Christmas is the gift of Jesus Christ himself. No money can buy Him or your faith in Him,” she says.
Edna Dease, Ans’ friend and domestic worker, says she prefers to save her money for the new year.
“As a single parent of three children, I have to buy gifts that the children can use at school, like uniforms and stationery. In the end, we only need faith in our Lord to be happy,” she says.
