Holiday Shopping Outside the Big Box

If the thought of getting up early, waiting in lines and strategically planning your way through Target, Best Buy or the mall is way too overwhelming, you're not alone.

In fact, many people have told Patch that they prefer to do their shopping somewhere other than the big box stores. And there's good reason. Some of the most unique and most personal gifts aren't necessarily mass-produced.

Then again, if you can't get enough of the stores, any stores, then keep reading.

With some help from the Hennepin County website Choose to Reuse and their coupon book good until Nov. 30, we found some shopping choices just minutes from here that save the environment along with your hard earned cash:

• Trying to find an elusive punk rock CD or a great-sounding vinyl record? This could be the place. 
• Great stocking stuffers for that angst-filled teenager, including patches and buttons with their favorite bands' featured.
• Open Mon-Fri 10am-9:30pm, Sat 10am-9pm and Sun 11am-6pm.

• Check out the jewelry selections—there's a good chance you can find antique earrings or a one-of-a-kind necklace, and you'll get it on the cheap.
• Got a college-age teen to buy for? Check out the housewares section and load up on lots of dorm or first apartment items.
• The Choose to Reuse guide has a 50% off one item coupon.
• Minnetonka: 13820 Wayzata Blvd.
• Hopkins; 1025 Hill St.  
• Goodwill is open Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-9 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. &
  Sun. 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Second Debut

• If you're heading to fancy holiday party or just want to look presentable to the in-laws, Second Debut has designer label formal and casual wear for both women and men.
• Make sure you check out the women's shoes
• They've got some beautiful and unique jewelry, including vintage jewelry.
• Framed Art: You can spend $15 or $150 on some of the best framed art and photography in the Twin Cities. 
• 4300 W. 36 1/2 St. in St. Louis Park
• Open Mon-Fri 10am–7pm, Sat 10am-6pm and Sun noon-5pm.

• If you've got a shutterbug on your Christmas list, you can pick up a used wide angle lens or digital SLR camera.
• Use the Choose to Reuse coupon and get an additional 10% off.
• 9300 Olson Memorial Highway in Golden Valley.
• Open Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m. - 9 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
  & Sun. noon - 5 p.m.

Arc's Value Village

• Located at 2751 Winnetka Ave. N. in New Hope
• Has its Merry Thriftmas seasonal shop open through December 23rd.
• If you're looking for just the right outfit for a night out on the town, try out their free personal shopper She's Got the Gift of Thrift.
• Open Mon-Fri 9am-9pm and Sat-Sun 9am-7pm.

Wabi Sabi Shop

• This is an uscale consignment shop offering high quality, gently used, and reasonably priced home furnishings, decor and artwork. 
• If you're looking for a big statement gift, check out this Georgian Mahogany Armoire that could become a family heirloom.
• The Choose to Reuse coupon gives you 10% off your entire purchase.
• Located in Waterford Plaza at 10100 6th. Ave. N. in Plymouth.
• Open are Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. and Sat. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.