I know, I know, it seems like holiday shopping creeps in earlier and earlier each year. And, unfortunately, it's happening again this year. But there are legit reasons for that, I promise. We all know that last year, 2020, was a bit of a doozy during the holidays, and this year it has only gotten worse. Yikes!
The holiday season is meant to be full of joy, celebrating good times with friends and enjoying fun traditions with family. You know what's not so joyful? Going to grab a last minute gift only to find it has been sold out for a month. Or worse, watching an oh-so-important Christmas present stuck in transit for weeks (or get completely lost). So stressful!!
This time of year is already stressful enough, no need to add to it! That's why it is so important to shop for the holidays early this year. Like, yesterday early. If you haven't started yet - now's the time to hop to it!
You've heard the story a million times by now. Shortages, shortages, and more shortages! Staffing shortages are making things slow down with everything from manufacturing to shipping. There are also a lot of supply shortages, meaning large and small businesses alike are going to run out of products faster than normal. And, due to shipping delays, they likely won't be able to restock in time. Double yikes.
So, how can you survive this holiday shopping season without major meltdowns and freak out moments? Here are my three tips:
Shop Early
Like I said, the time to start shopping for the holidays in 2021 was basically yesterday. I have already noticed shipping delays in orders I've made in the last couple of weeks. Avoid the stress of post office delays by getting your shopping done now. My other piece of advice for shopping early is that if you see something you want now, buy it now. There is no guarantee that it will be in stock next month, or next week even. Stores will run out of product, and they might not be able to get it back in stock before the end of the year.
Shop Small
Small businesses truly are the backbone of our economy. They are nimble, resilient, and creative. This year you are going to see some incredible things from small shops - from genius gift ideas to above-and-beyond customer service. Small business owners are able to offer that extra special touch - like nice gift wrapping or hand delivery - that big box stores simply cannot. This year, more than ever, is the time to shop small for the holidays!
Shop In Person
Obviously the best way to avoid shipping delays and lost packages altogether is to shop in-person! And while, sure, you might have a couple gifts on somebody's list that can only be purchased at Target, you'd be amazed at what you can find at small local shops in your town! By shopping in person, particularly at small local businesses, you're able to grab a gift right then and there and not have to wait and worry about shipping. Pro Tip: This time of year is full of local craft and vendor shows, with amazing gift options from local makers and businesses!
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