Web site simplifies gift giving as a group
It may seem that every month there is a birthday, holiday, wedding, graduation or similar gift-giving event.
The larger your family and network of friends, the more strained your pockets may feel. Before avoiding your next social event, do consider another shopping option.
Purchasing a gift as a group allows you to give that perfect present. A present that on your own may have seemed too expensive is reasonable with a group.
Are you wary of buying a gift as a group due to the issues that often surround this process? The website www.eDivvy.com alleviates these routine problems and allows group purchasing to run smoothly.
A group purchase ordinarily requires one person, the organizer, to be responsible for collecting the money and purchasing the intended gift. This is not always a fun or desired role. It is typical for an organizer to receive IOU’s and ultimately foot the bill for any remaining balance or late contributions. This can cause frustration among all parties involved.
How does www.eDivvy.com work? Simply visit the site and choose to create an event. You can provide as many specifics on the upcoming event or occasion as you choose. Required details include the date of the event, the recipient’s name, where the gift will be shipped and the end date for all contributions. The person setting up the event provides their name and e-mail address and serves as the online organizer of this event.
After you set up your event, it is time to shop and decide on the item to be given. There is a wide range of options from many well known merchants — REI, Sports Authority, Apple Store, Target, Office Depot, Macy’s and more.
Once the item is chosen, it’s time to invite all other participants. This is done by entering their e-mail address. You can invite as many people as you want with a minimum number of two.
All participants receive an e-mail that directs them to the Web site to learn about the upcoming event. They can see the item looking to be purchased for that special person. Each participant can choose to contribute or subtly decline.
The amount of contribution is entirely up to the participant. Those who choose to contribute will receive e-mail reminders from eDivvy.com (not the organizer) regarding the due date for payment. Once you choose to contribute, you will be able to sign the card that is delivered with the item. It is very easy and convenient.
A $339.99 Panasonic digital camera might be a bit pricey for a solo shopper but purchasing the gift on eDivvy.com among 12 friends reduces the cost to $28.33 per person.
From a flat screen TV to a Fendi purse, the option to group purchase is available. This allows every item to become affordable and even inexpensive depending on the number of participants. Whether it is a graduation gift or a Mother’s Day present, it is a nice option for family and friends.
Maggie Clark is a shopaholic and Coloradoan advertising sales executive. She does not write about her clients. Call her at 416-3918 or send e-mail to MaggieClark@coloradoan.com.
Source: The Coloradoan
Date: May 5, 2008
