Everyone worries about what gifts they should make or purchase. The holidays sneak up on us faster than a ninja. What’s important is to not panic and remember there is always help. The biggest fear we can have is the lack of originality in our gift giving. Who needs another itchy sweater or pair of socks? No one, that’s who.

But we can avoid boring gifts, and your best friend is the internet. The Ames area is wonderful but we are not the shopping capital of the world by any means. This is where our research skills come into play. Find out what your friends really like and care about and adjust your search options accordingly. Then it’s just about finding the right item on the right website.

Check out these unique websites that will be sure to give you a leg up on the competition:

http://fancy.com/

http://www.incrediblethings.com/unique-gifts/

http://www.uncommongoods.com/

http://www.redenvelope.com/

http://www.artfire.com/ext/gifts

http://www.perpetualkid.com/

http://www.modcloth.com/Gifts

Your loved ones will surely be impressed!