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Observers of popular culture have long known that in large part, generations look alike, think alike, dress alike, vote alike, live alike, and share a similar attitude toward life and leisure activities. That theory certainly holds true for shopping. A recent Nielsen analysis of the four key generations revealed generationally consistent shopping habits that reflect diverse lifestyle preferences and economic habits.

Retailers and restaurants might have a little more luck o' the Irish this St. Patrick's Day as consumers gear up for private parties and special outings to celebrate the Irish holiday. According to the National Retail Federation's 2010 St. Patrick's Day survey, conducted by BIGresearch, celebrants will spend an average of $33.05 on decorations, party favors and green attire, up slightly from $32.80 last year. Total spending is expected to reach $3.44 billion.

When coming up with creative ways to promote your business, carefully think through your plans to avoid marketing blunders that might cause more harm than good. Millions of dollars are spent every year on marketing and public relations efforts. Companies hire so-called experts in the field. People who claim to have insight into how the public feels and what they will buy. Despite all of these efforts, some real dumb marketing ideas still produce embarrassing results.

With the 2009 holiday season now behind them, jewelers who have survived the year will find a weeded-out playing field and a consumer whose confidence will grow as the year progresses -- which means this year will be a time to look forward and not back. Industry analyst Ken Gassman says there is "zero question" that 2010 is going to be better than 2009.