If you dread the thought of packed malls, traffic jams and piped Christmas carols in the lead up to Christmas, then take advantage of your local market or high street shops where spirits are high and the prices are perfect for you pocket.

There’s no denying the atmosphere are weekend markets is always buzzing.  Smiling faces greet you as eager stall-holders take the time to talk and show off their produce.  At Christmas-time markets are generally much bigger, are held several times in the lead up to the holiday and you are sure to bump into someone you know –  no matter how big or small your town or city is.

It’s been a tough year for our farmers so get in there and support their efforts to keep going even through the hard times. Farmers’ markets are therefore the place to be when choosing your Christmas lunch or dinner fare.  Fresh poultry, vegetables, lamb, pork and beef, fruit and of course cakes and puddings are easily found and they will be different to those that were commercially produced.

This is also the best place to find those little stocking fillers or the “Kris Kringle” mystery gift for your colleagues at work.  Finding a beautiful candle, head-band or wallet that has been hand-made and created with thought and personal time, makes the gift so much better.

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Tiny take-away items such as fridge magnets, badges, coasters, key rings are easily transported and are therefore a good option when market shopping.

A low-cost gift is considered to be anywhere from $25-$50.  Choose something small in size that shows the source of the item or product.  This way you can support you small grower or craft stall-holder by spreading the word about who they are and where you live.

Personalised items of jewellery, dog bowls, wall art and baby products make the perfect platform for featuring names or look out for gift wrapping options such as paper and cards that were hand - made and feature landmarks or landscapes from your region.

You will also find some great Christmas decorations with cards and gift wrap to be bought that feature where you live and reflect regionalism.

And don’t forget the many packed hampers of local goodies that are on offer each year.  Buy regional wines, jams, pates, hams, cheeses, breads and cakes that are a popular choice for those end-of-year gifts for teachers or someone you would like to spoil or thank.

Don’t get stressed out when you can enjoy a stroll through your own town finding just the right gift to put under the tree.