You’ve probably heard the news—lingering economic effects of the pandemic are causing significant disruptions in the global supply chain. Not only is there a general scarcity of certain goods, but many key commerce jobs are experiencing unprecedented labor shortages. According to CBS News, “millions of dollars’ worth of holiday presents and other goods Americans have ordered are stuck on giant container ships, waiting for a space to unload at the ports.”
On an individual level, all of this culminates in a sense of anxiety surrounding the traditional holiday shopping season. In spite of these economic concerns, you and your loved ones deserve that magical experience of gift-giving this winter. Here are some best practices for navigating these unique supply chain challenges, and a few ways Meetup can help you discover creative alternatives that still spark the holiday spirit.
Get an early start
Black Friday—or the following Cyber Monday—usually kicks off the holiday shopping season. Although these are popular entry points into festive finance, many people typically start later. In fact, one survey from 2019 showed that 28% of shoppers didn’t begin until three weeks before Christmas at most, with many waiting until a week before Christmas.
This year, that strategy may not work. In fact, the 8% of respondents who began shopping on Black Friday might even have to consider starting before then. Earlier this year, CNBC reported that more than a quarter of holiday shoppers either began their gift-buying in August or planned to begin in September.
It’s pretty clear: if you plan on buying gifts this season, the best time to start is as soon as possible. If you’ve browsed any online retailers recently, you’ve probably seen ample warnings that shipments are expected to take far longer than the time frame consumers have grown accustomed to.
Opt for buying gifts in person rather than ordering online
One of the best ways to avoid shipping delays is to not have anything shipped! Of course, lots of people rely on mailing gifts to loved ones in faraway places. But if you’re able, you should consider shopping in person for the gifts you plan on giving to people in your local orbit.
Plus, the convenience of online shopping has slightly overshadowed the joyful experience of browsing in a boutique store or strolling through a charming holiday market. Shopping online can often help you find the exact item you want to purchase, but what if you haven’t had any great gift ideas yet? One of the benefits of shopping in person is that lots of quality stores are well curated, presenting you dozens if not hundreds of interesting options you may not have expected to find.
Instead of scrolling through websites alone, make a fun day out of your holiday shopping experience by going to brick-and-mortar stores with friends.
Get creative with Meetup
With all of the obstacles in the way of traditional holiday shopping, this year may be a great opportunity for you to try something more unique. Meetup groups are a great resource if you want to give an experience rather than a physical item. These kinds of gifts, like attending a classical music concert or participating in a museum treasure hunt, are special because they’re something you genuinely share with your loved one. Experiential gifts show that you value quality time together.
You could also try your hand at a handmade present this year. These personalized gifts truly come from the heart and make the recipient feel extra special, knowing they’ve received a one-of-a-kind item. A handmade gift is worth so much more than any dollar amount on a traditional store-bought item, and is likely to become a lifelong keepsake. If you’re not sure where to start, check out a crafting group for some inspiration. If you want to jump into something unique, why not learn how to make soap?
Give the gift of community
Even more than the presents we share, the one gift that really matters during the holiday season is that feeling of togetherness. Simply being with your loved ones is hands-down the best way to show them that you care. Meetup groups all across the globe are gathering for holiday celebrations over the next few weeks—bring your friends and family to an event near you, whether it’s an ugly sweater party or a holiday hike.
Keep the gift of community going by ordering a Meetup subscription on behalf of someone you love so they can create groups for their favorite hobbies! Starting on Black Friday, new organizers will receive three months free on a six-month subscription using the code FREE3MONS.
Last modified on November 23, 2021
