Topic: Preparing for the Holidays
The holidays, they are a comin'.
Preparing my shop for the holidays has been on my mind (to-do list) since I posted about planning ahead for the holiday rush way back in July. I've made a bit of progress, but now that September is drawing to a close & Etsy has started their Holiday Boot Camp Series it's time to really get moving!
I would love to add lots of new items & holiday themed lovelies, but that just may not be a reality for me this year. Instead, I'm thinking of how to present items I currently create into gifts sets and offer lovely packaging.
packaging:
Whether it's included in your listing or offered as an add-on service, I think making items ready for gift giving is one of those small details that will keep customers (and their gift recipients!) coming back. I've ordered so many lovely gifts from other Etsy shops & am always thrilled when my purchases arrive neatly wrapped & ready to give as a gift. Sure, I love adding my own bits of ribbon & such but nothing beats having that little box or adorable business card to include with it!
Packaging Kit from Sweet Findings
If you offer it, show it. Buyers love to see what exactly your packaging looks like...
Jewelry Gift Box from fabulous Jaros Designs
gift sets:
Presenting various cohesive items from your shop together can also make it easy on buyers - no need for them to shop around to find all the components of a gift. Instead, perhaps they can find a bracelet & necklace set, kitchen towels & pot holders, knit cap with mittens, or lotion and soap together in your shop. Presto, a complete gift in one place. Grouping similar items together can also make it simple & cost effective for buyers. Think of those shoppers needing gifts for five different teachers- a cinch when they find a listing for a group of five bar soaps, cosmetic bags, ornaments, etc. My zipper pouch set is one of my top-selling items. 
Soap & Candle Gift Set from Cottage Garden Therapies
There we have it. Two quick & simple ways to increase your shop's holiday readiness!
Any tips you can share? As a buyer, what do you hope to see this season?
