My Cheap Solution to the Holidays

Credit: Lyptonvillage.org

I am a college student. And when you are a college student the holidays can be depressing. It's not because we academic scholars are so jaded, pretentious and pessimistic that we are indifferent to the season, no! We love December and all the winter festivities that come along with this month just as much as the next person. However, there is one aspect of the holiday season that can be daunting for us...gift shopping. Most college students do not make much or any money, which can make shopping frugally for loved ones nearly impossible.

Credit: Mediaeater

This is my solution to the holiday haze that is buying gifts on a budget. I got the idea from a post by one of my favorite vintage sellers and bloggers, the lovely Miss James of Bleubird Vintage. I am buying everyone a vinyl record. Genius right? Thanks James!

Source: Soundstagedirect.com

Even if they don't have a record player, a lot of people value vinyl. It gives a feeling nostalgia, a sense of history, an aura of authenticity. Not to mention, you can find some for really cheap, that is if you know how and where to look. Thrift stores and flea markets are ideal because you can find really cool records that are crazy inexpensive. If you want, start at a local record store that sells vinyl records. You can also look online at places like Ebay, Amazon, and Etsy, but you also have to factor in shipping costs.

Source: The Vinyl District

James says in her post to make sure you really give the record a good looksie before you buy it. Make sure there aren't any scratches or warping and check to see that the actual record matches the jacket.

Source: Vinyl Visions Blog

*Here are some local record stores where you can start looking for some vintage vinyl tunes:

Philadelphia Record Exchange

a.k.a Music

Repo Records

Armand Records

Spaceboy Music

Long in the Tooth

Record Bar

Source: unique thrift kedzie (Flickr)

*And if you want to buy your loved ones something to play that record on, here are some places you can find record players (prices range):

Urban Outfitters

Etsy - search results

Ebay - search results

*Some other blogs that have great ideas for Christmas shopping:

Fly Girls

Bleubird Vintage

I Heart Daily

Daily Candy

Good luck with your holiday shopping!

Cheers! Vintage On Philly