Make Your Holidays Happy by Planning Ahead

Lately, you’ve probably noticed empty shelves at your local grocery and retail stores. Supply chain interruptions have made some products difficult to locate and others outright impossible to find, making the 2021 holiday shopping season particularly challenging.

Origin Bank knows that holiday shopping can be stressful under the best of circumstances. But a little creativity and early planning can help calm your inner Grinch so you and your loved ones can enjoy a holiday season that’s merry and bright. Here are some tips:

  1. Shop Local
    Now is the perfect time to visit your local arts market for unique finds this holiday season. From handcrafted jewelry to fine art, hand-made ornaments and even custom furnishings, you’ll find shelves that are teeming with items perfect for everyone on your list. As a special Christmas bonus, every purchase you make helps to support a local maker in your community.
  2. Become an Upcycler
    Sustainable shopping is a popular trend, with consumers choosing to “upcycle” gently used items in an effort to reduce waste and support green initiatives. Estate sales, thrift stores and consignment boutiques offer one-of-a-kind finds and even luxury designer items at reasonable pricing that won’t break your holiday budget.
  3. Don’t Open ‘Til Christmas
    If you want to shop online but are worried you won’t have time to receive, wrap, and ship items to your loved ones, consider having online orders shipped directly to the gift recipients on your list. This efficient option means you’ll have to forgo decorative wrapping, but it’s the thought that counts, right? And don’t forget to let recipients know they can’t open packages until Christmas, or else they’ll land on next year’s naughty list.
  4. Ship Smart
    With warehouses and delivery services all struggling with limited staff, experts are predicting longer than normal delays to holiday shipping. Plan ahead by shipping your packages early to give your items plenty of time for pre-Christmas delivery. It’s also a good idea to use a carrier that provides tracking information so you can track your shipments with ease.

Once you’ve checked off all the names on your holiday shopping and shipping list, sit back with a hot cocoa, deck your halls and enjoy the 2021 holiday spirit.