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Tag: Holiday shopping

  • 21 Unique Experience Gifts That Are More Memorable Than Another Vanilla Candle

    21 Unique Experience Gifts That Are More Memorable Than Another Vanilla Candle

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    All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, StyleCaster may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.

    I don’t know about you, but experience gifts are my favorite kinds of presents to receive. They last longer than any candle, bottle of perfume, or pair of fuzzy socks ever could. And in my eyes, they’re oftentimes filled with much more intention and meaning. Whether you’re enjoying them alone or with loved ones, the best experience gifts create new, precious memories, and isn’t that all you can really ask for during the holidays?

    Like I said, experience gifts typically require more thought than other presents. You have to consider how your recipient likes to spend their time, as well as which activities they told you they’ve always wanted to try. If they love sports, game tickets or an ESPN+ subscription make the most sense. If they like to seek out adventure, a hiking trip or winter cabin getaway is sure to please. And if they pride themselves on being a foodie, they’ll get a kick out of a baking or mixology class—or some sort of food gift like Goldbelly (a personal fave of mine).

    See, there are plenty of experience gift ideas for anyone and everyone on your list—from Mom and Dad to your sibling, bestie, or bae. So keep scrolling to find classes, concerts, subscriptions, and more to treat your giftee to a meaningful experience they’ll never forget.

    Classes

    Milk Bar Classes
    Milk Bar.

    In addition to online classes, Milk Bar hosts in-person experiences where you can build one of the bakery’s signature cookies or cakes. I’ve been given this exact experience gift and can confirm that it’s so fun and tasty.

    Uncommon Goods Mixology Class
    Amy K.

    For the spirit-sipping friend in your life, let them learn how to make their own cocktails with this 90-minute mixology class from Uncommon Goods.

    Uncommon Goods Paint Your Pet Class
    Addie Stunkard.

    If their pet is the center of their life and all they ever talk about, then they’ll definitely have a blast painting their furry friend.

    Subscriptions

    MasterClass Classes
    MasterClass.

    Your lucky recipient will get to learn from the best of the best when you gift them a Masterclass subscription. They’ll have access to over 180 classes—from Wolfgang Puck spilling all of his culinary tips and tricks to Coach K diving deep into what makes a great leader. Right now for Black Friday, you can secure two memberships for the price of one—that’s a gift for you and a gift for a loved one.

    ESPN+ Subscription
    Photo: ESPN+.

    There are a lot of streaming services to keep track of, and the costs certainly add up. If they’re missing ESPN+ but love all things sports, gift them an ESPN+ subscription so they can watch their fave teams compete.

    Rent the Runway Membership
    Photo: Rent the Runway.

    The fashionista on your shopping list will adore a Rent the Runway subscription. Why? Because they can handpick, borrow, and wear 5, 10, or 15 items a month to ensure their ‘fits are always on point. This subscription gift is the perfect choice for the sister who constantly says they have nothing in their closet or the social butterfly friend who’s always off to fancy events.

    Concerts

    Taylor Swift
    Photo by Marcelo Endelli/TAS23/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management.Marcelo Endelli/TAS23/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management

    Everyone knows a Swiftie that would sell their soul for Taylor Swift concert tickets. They’ll be forever grateful if you bless them with seats to The Eras Tour.

    U2
    Metcalfe/Getty Images.Metcalfe/Getty Images

    Everyone’s talking about the Sphere in Las Vegas, so why not get them tickets to U2’s residency there? This experience gift will be unlike any concert they’ve ever been to.

    Beyonce Renaissance World Tour 2023 - Kansas City
    Photo by Kevin Mazur/WireImage for Parkwood.

    From what I hear, the Renaissance World Tour is an out-of-body experience that your lucky recipient will hold close to their heart forever and ever.

    Bad Bunny Most Wanted Tour 2024
    Live Nation.

    They’re sure to have the time of their life at Bad Bunny’s Most Wanted Tour, singing and dancing to all of his Latin trap bangers (mosquitos not included).

    Sports

    KANSAS CITY, MO - SEPTEMBER 07: Patrick Mahomes #15 of the Kansas City Chiefs looks to throw the ball during at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium on September 7, 2023 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images)
    Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images.Getty Images.

    For the recipient who has football on the TV every Sunday, help them get off of the couch and into a stadium by scoring them tickets to an NFL game.

    How To Watch NBA Games
    Harry How/Getty Images.Harry How/Getty Images

    If basketball is their preferred sport, scoop up tickets to an NBA game. Our top pick would be a Denver Nuggets game to see the reigning champs (and of course, Nikola Jokić).

    Formula 1 Grand Prix of Brazil
    Photo by Michael Potts/BSR Agency/Getty Images.

    For the die-hard F1 enthusiast, their life will be made when they find out you bought them Formula 1 tickets. Watching the race (and handsome drivers) up close in person can’t be beaten.

    Food

    Goldbelly Nancy Silverton's Favorite Gelato Gift Box
    Courtesy of Nancy’s Fancy.

    Their mouth will water after they open their gift from Goldbelly, an online marketplace for regional and artisanal foods. Ship them a treat from a smaller local business or even from a world-renowned chef. My personal favorite is Nancy Silverton’s Favorite Gelato Gift Box. If you’re unsure what kinds of food they enjoy, a Goldbelly gift card is a great backup plan.

    Omaha Steaks
    Photo: Omaha Steaks.

    The meat lover on your list will be cooking up a storm once they open this box of delish goodies. Everything on the site is 50 percent off right now, so get to it!

    Cometeer Mixed Box
    Photo: Cometeer.

    Hook your nearest and dearest up with their daily dose of caffeine. I’m a huge fan of Cometeer’s innovative frozen coffee capsules. They’re easy to use, taste so smooth, and cost way less than a $10 latte from Starbs. You can send a box as a one-time gift or sign them up for a subscription that keeps the coffee flowing. I suggest you choose the Mixed Roast Box so they can try a variety of light, medium, and dark roasts (pssst, 32 capsules = $2.62 per cup).

    Travel

    Park City Cabin Airbnb
    Photo: Rocky and Gianni/Airbnb.

    Sometimes all they really need is a vacation. If they’re the type of person who would never book themselves a getaway, now’s your chance to swoop in. Since it’s almost wintertime, we’re thinking this cozy cabin in Park City, Utah would be the perfect destination.

    Live Virtual Wildlife Safari in South Africa Airbnb Experience
    Courtesy of host/Airbnb.

    Did you know Airbnb offers online experiences like this virtual safari in South Africa? If a flight and hotel are out of your budget, an online travel experience is a great alternative that they can enjoy within the comfort of their own home.

    REI Moonlight Hike
    REI.

    ICYMI, REI offers classes and events for nature lovers near and far. From cycling and hiking to backcountry exploration and wilderness first aid certification, the options are endless for your high-stamina pal.

    Personalized

    Cameo Personalized Video Message
    Cameo.

    Cameo lets you order a personalized video message starring your giftee’s favorite celeb. You’re bound to find an idea among all of the musicians, athletes, comedians, reality TV stars, and actors who are on this site.

    STYLECASTER | Virtual Father's Day Ideas
    StoryWorth.

    This might look like any old photo book, but trust us, it’s much more. Storyworth strings together stories by asking your giftee one question a week that they have to reply to over email. At the end of the year, you’re left with a collection of meaningful anecdotes that you can pair with photos and put into a Storyworth book. They’ll adore being able to revisit such special memories whenever they’re feeling sentimental.

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    Katie Decker-Jacoby

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  • What do de-influencers really do? – MoneySense

    What do de-influencers really do? – MoneySense

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    Wang started her content creator side hustle as a creative outlet when she was a pharmacy student. She posted her OOTD (outfits of the day) snaps on Instagram in 2015. Over time, her approach evolved—and she went viral after posting videos that exposed poor quality materials for a high price tag at popular retail stores. 

    What is de-influencing?

    De-influencing is a social media trend where influencers recommend what viewers should not buy, or debunk popular products. The trend has gained traction, and it makes sense, given that Canadians are dealing with stubborn inflation, leading to climbing prices for consumer goods, and a higher cost of living. Many of us are on the hunt for value. Wang, for instance, visits retail stores and points out certain items and materials that she advises people not to buy because of their quality or value for money. Read more about 2023 shopping trends

    “I never planned for or wanted to make content creation my full-time career and I still feel that way,” she says. “The reason being, as a full time content creator or influencer; you’re at the mercy of companies who are writing your paycheque. I like the freedom of being able to be truthful and sometimes critical of retailers without worrying about if they would want to work with me in the future.”

    You might wonder if this method means she might not strike as many deals as an influencer, but she says she is able to bring in substantial income from her side hustle. Wang says her social media earnings come from sponsored content and advertising revenue on YouTube.

    Her goal as a content creator isn’t just to make extra money, though. “Fighting textile pollution caused by fast fashion is a passion of mine and definitely something my content revolves around,” Wang says. “Most environmentalists use guilt as a tactic to stop people from buying fast fashion but this doesn’t work. If guilt-tripping people worked, we would all be vegans.” Instead of guilt-tripping, she strives to show people to skip fast fashion if possible, or at least buy better quality items. She demonstrates that buying garments with better quality can lead to longer-term savings, since she shows in her videos that high-quality items with certain materials have lasted her several years and several wears. 

    “I know that fast fashion is the only option for some, but there are ways to shop fast fashion more sustainably. My hope is for viewers to apply what they’ve learned regardless where they’re shopping.”

    To find out more about Wang’s shopping tips and tricks, and her personal finance lessons, we asked her about what she does as a de-influencer. 

    What’s your best shopping tip? 

    Almost every day, I remind Canadians that a brand name does not always equal good quality. Most people don’t realize that. A lot of Canadians spend their hard-earned money on poor-quality items just because it’s a brand name. Just like we pay attention to the ingredients in our food, we should look at the materials and construction of our clothes instead of relying on brand name to tell us if something is good quality. 

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    Margaret Montgomery

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  • Canadians spending less on gifts (and donations) for the 2023 holiday season – MoneySense

    Canadians spending less on gifts (and donations) for the 2023 holiday season – MoneySense

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    Canadians are already planning to spend less, according to Deloitte Canada’s 2023 Holiday Retail Outlook. This is an annual forecast for retail businesses—but this year, there’s little for them to feel jolly about. According to a survey of 1,000 Canadians, we plan to spend an average of $1,347 over the 2023 holiday season. That’s down 11% from 2022’s forecast of $1,520 and nearly 27% from 2021’s forecast of $1,841. What are we cutting back on this year? Charitable donations (-40%), gifts (-18%) and gift cards (-14%).

    Canadians are looking for the best holiday deals—and we’ll switch brands if necessary

    Canadians always love getting deals, but we’re going to spend carefully this year and focus even harder on value, says Marty Weintraub, national retail leader at Deloitte Canada. “We’re seeing the money shift to what we call ‘extreme value.’ The top reasons for picking a retailer are: number one, reasonable prices, and number two, value for money,” he says, adding that shoppers plan to spend more at mass merchant retailers and warehouse membership clubs this year.

    Other notable findings from the survey, conducted in September:

    • One in three Canadians are worried about how they will pay for gifts. 
    • 48% of Canadians intend to buy only what their family needs this season—up from 41% in 2022 and 35% in 2021.
    • 76% of us expect prices to be higher this year, and 73% of us think retailers are raising prices unfairly. 
    • We’ve become a nation of bargain hunters: 77% of us plan to shop around for the best deals, and 71% of us will switch brands if our preferred one is too pricey. 
    • We don’t mind putting in the legwork—45% of us will visit multiple stores in the same area to get what we’re looking for. Overall, we’ll visit an average of 16.5 stores and websites (up 37% from 2022). 
    • To afford holiday purchases, 24% of us will postpone travel plans, and 23% will cut back on our grocery budgets. 

    On the brighter side, some Canadians are still finding room in their budgets to indulge a little and to spend according to their values. According to the survey findings: 

    • 26% of us will treat ourselves to an experience such as a concert, sports event, trip or spa day.
    • More than half of us (55%), especially younger adults and women, are willing to spend more for products and services that are sustainable.
    • We’re planning to spend 11% more money on travel this holiday season than in 2022.

    Despite tighter budgets this holiday season, we’re spending more on travel

    How is travel spending rising when we’re cutting costs elsewhere? “Post-pandemic, we still have some revenge travel happening this holiday season,” says Weintraub. “Last December, if you went away, it was a gong show at the airport and with the airlines. As a result, some people said, ‘Not for me, I’ll do it later.’ Some of that’s coming back this year, but in the context of inflation hitting travel as well.” 

    Weintraub himself is taking his family on a trip over the holidays, and he expects to spend more than he would have last year. “I want to provide an experience for my family rather than buy things, and I want to go because I didn’t get to do it in the past couple of years,” he says. “I’m going to borrow from Peter to pay Pauline—take it out of one pocket and put [it] in another—and I’m willing to pay for more it.” 

    Canadians are worried about debt, high interest and job loss

    Deloitte’s findings echo the results of other surveys. In mid-October, the MNP Consumer Debt Index shared that more Canadians are struggling with debt, high interest rates and concerns about job loss. Half of respondents reported that they are $200 or less from being unable to meet their financial obligations.

    “There is no mystery as to what is causing Canadians’ bleak debt outlook: it’s getting increasingly difficult to make ends meet,” Grant Bazian, MNP’s president, said in a press release. “Facing a combination of rising debt-carrying costs, living expenses and concern over the potential for continued interest rate and price hikes, many Canadians are stretched uncomfortably close to broke.”  

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    Jaclyn Law

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  • I’m Planning On Snapping Up These Amazon Beauty Finds *Before* the Holidays Hit

    I’m Planning On Snapping Up These Amazon Beauty Finds *Before* the Holidays Hit

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    We’ve finally reached that time of the year when beauty lovers everywhere can finally get their hands on the products that have long-standing residencies on their beauty wish lists. In case you missed it, Amazon’s Black Friday sales event is just around the corner, with the potential for mind-boggling deals on all your favorite beauty brands, including Laneige, Olaplex, Ouai, and so many more. It’s never too early to get a jump on your holiday shopping.

    If you’re in the mood to see which ones this Who What Wear beauty editor will be shopping during the sale, keep reading. Prepare to screenshot or bookmark your favorites for access when the day rolls around. Trust me—you’ll want to move fast in order to catch these deals before they’re gone for good (or at least until next year).

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    Maya Thomas

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  • Gen Z Shoppers Transforming Holiday Retail: The Rise Of In-Store Experience

    Gen Z Shoppers Transforming Holiday Retail: The Rise Of In-Store Experience

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    As malls across the country prepare for the holiday season, Gen Z shoppers are emerging as a significant force in the shopping landscape. According to the “The Rise of the Gen Z Consumer” report from the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC), Gen Z’s unique preferences and behaviors are not only shaping the retail industry but also having a profound impact on the economy.

    Gen Z shoppers are standing out for their preference for physical stores rather than relying solely on the convenience of online shopping. Nearly 97% of Gen Z survey respondents who shop at brick-and-mortar stores also shop online (95%), according to the ICSC report. Of those who shop in-store, 30% do so to get products immediately, while 28% are driven by the tactile experience to see, touch and try products.

    For Gen Z, a trip to the mall isn’t just about purchasing gifts; it’s about having an experience that involves the convenience of gathering, shopping, and dining with friends in person. Savvy decision makers will need to bridge the gap between this generation’s online and offline shopping behaviors to take advantage of this growing opportunity to earn their loyalty.

    “You had to be there”

    JLL research reveals that Gen Z is leading the charge when it comes to in-store shopping during special sales days. Whether it is Thanksgiving, Black Friday weekend, or Super Saturday, more Gen Zers say they will head into stores compared with other generations.

    It’s not just the deals they’re after; they crave the excitement of the bustling mall atmosphere during the holiday rush. In fact, the report shows that 49.6% of Gen Z shoppers prefer malls, compared to the average of 40.8% for other generations. It’s clear that Gen Z is gravitating towards the mall this holiday season for the experience, from the festive music and twinkling lights to the aroma of seasonal treats wafting through the air.

    Gen Z, known for their strong sense of community, cherishes the opportunity to spend quality time with friends while browsing for the perfect gifts. The holiday season represents a time to bond, share fashion advice, and enjoy a meal together, creating cherished memories amidst the glittering holiday decorations.

    However, their penchant for physical stores isn’t solely driven by social desires. It’s also a response to their unique shopping habits and behaviors, influenced by various factors like the state of the economy, social media, and brand ethics. According to the ICSC report, speed, convenience, and efficiency are the top drivers of in-store shopping. 46% of Gen Z shoppers value quick and easy checkouts, 39% value being able to get what you want in-store immediately, and 23% appreciate the ability to buy online and pick-up in-store.

    Social still matters

    Physical ambiance isn’t the only thing drawing Gen Z to malls. Social media continues to play a significant role in shaping their holiday shopping habits. According to the ICSC report, Gen Z shoppers favored platforms like Instagram and TikTok, with 46.5% turning to Instagram and 38.5% to TikTok for holiday shopping inspiration.

    Instagram, with its visually appealing posts and shoppable tags, provides a curated shopping experience tailored to their tastes. Influencers and brands using Instagram to showcase holiday fashion, decor, and gifting ideas are making it an indispensable tool for Gen Z’s shopping journey. TikTok’s quick, entertaining videos, on the other hand, offer creative gift ideas, budget-friendly hacks, and firsthand shopping experiences that create a more interactive drive to retail. The platform’s algorithm ensures that users discover content that resonates with their interests, making it a valuable resource for holiday inspiration.

    JLL recognizes this trend and is partnering with influencers across the country to craft “holiday haul” video content that positions their local centers as the ultimate source of style and gifting inspiration.

    With smartphones in hand, Gen Z is discovering a newfound sense of purpose at the mall. Armed with recommendations from their favorite influencers and social media platforms, they are engaging in immersive experiences that bridge the online and offline worlds, such as embarking on a treasure hunt to seek the perfect gifts for their loved ones.

    As they make purchases, they’re doing so with intention, preferring to shop with brands that align with their values of authenticity and ethical practices. They seek retailers that champion sustainability, diversity, and social responsibility. More than half (53%) of Gen Z shoppers prefer to buy from brands that support mental health, and 47% prefer brands supporting sustainability initiatives, 47% prefer brands supporting racial and gender equality, according to the ICSC report. They are more likely to support businesses that prioritize fair labor practices and eco-friendly initiatives. In doing so, they use their purchasing power to advocate for a better world while fulfilling their holiday shopping needs.

    The future of holiday mall shopping

    The impact of Gen Z’s shopping habits on the economy is undeniable. Their preference for in-store shopping is injecting life into malls and physical retail, helping to revitalize these spaces in the digital age. Shopping malls that adapt to meet their demands—be it offering immersive in-store experiences, exclusive deals, and a seamless blend of offline and online shopping options—are likely to reap the benefits, including their sustained loyalty.

    In a world increasingly defined by digital interactions, Gen Z’s commitment to the in-store experience serves as a testament to their desire for genuine connections and meaningful moments. The holiday season isn’t just a time for exchanging gifts for this demographic; it’s an opportunity to create lasting memories with friends, engage with their favorite social media platforms, and support brands that share their values. By creating new holiday shopping traditions, shopping malls can use nostalgia and innovation to leave a lasting impact on the retail industry for generations to come.

    Gen Z’s holiday shopping habits are proving to be more than just a trend; they symbolize an opportunity to tap into community, their sense of individuality, and harness the power of conscious consumerism, ushering in a new era of retail during the most wonderful time of the year.

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    Kristin Mueller, Contributor

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  • Kora Organics Holiday Kits Include a Brightening Face Oil That Brings ‘Positive Change’ Within a Week

    Kora Organics Holiday Kits Include a Brightening Face Oil That Brings ‘Positive Change’ Within a Week

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    Kora Organics Holiday Kits Include a Mix of Best-Selling Essentials – StyleCaster

























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  • Ring In the Holidays With These 28 Advent Calendars

    Ring In the Holidays With These 28 Advent Calendars

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    All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, StyleCaster may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.

    Can you believe November is already here? We sure can’t, but this brisk autumn month can only mean one thing: It’s time to start our search for the best advent calendars. From the outside, these boxes might look like, well, just boxes. But open them up and you’ll find a bunch of numbered compartments you can unlock each day leading up to Christmas. Some kick off at the beginning of December, while others start in the middle of the month. So whether you’ve been doing advent calendars since you were little or you’re a complete newbie, add a touch more joy and excitement to the holiday season with any of our top picks.

    The options are truly endless when it comes to advent calendars these days. In fact, the selection seems to keep getting better and more innovative each year. This time around, there are plenty of classics, like cals from LEGO, Bonne Maman, and Godiva. Just make sure you don’t overlook the more unique options, like jewelry advent calendars and even a Japanese snack one. In terms of pricing, beauty and home advent calendars are definitely on the pricier end of the spectrum, while food and LEGO ones tend to be more affordable.

    With our extensive list, you won’t run out of advent calendars to shop in 2023—pick up a few for your loved ones, and don’t forget to treat yourself to one (or two!). Happy unboxing!

    Best Beauty Advent Calendars

    Jo Malone London 25-Day Advent Calendar
    Jo Malone London.

    If they’re a fan of Jo Malone’s luxurious fragrances, this advent calendar contains mini and full-sized beauty essentials in a multitude of scents—from Ginger Biscuit to English Pear and Freesia.

    Saks Fifth Avenue Saks 25 Days Of Beauty Advent Calendar
    Saks Fifth Avenue.

    Saks Fifth Avenue is back with another beauty advent cal, and the only thing you need to hear is that it’s valued at $560 but costs $225 (!!).

    La Mer The World of La Mer 12-Day Advent Calendar
    La Mer.

    Twelve days of La Mer sounds like a dream, so let the brand’s hydrating and nourishing formulas come to your skin’s rescue this winter.

    Bobbi Brown 12 Days Of Glow Advent Calendar
    Bobbi Brown.

    Bobbi Brown is a household name in beauty, and this stunning ornament-shaped box holds a ton of the brand’s trusty makeup products.

    Revolve Beauty 2023 Advent Calendar
    Revolve.

    Revolve’s beauty advent calendar is valued at $481, but you can order it now for just $150. Dr. Barbara Sturm, Charlotte Tilbury, and Peter Thomas Roth for that price tag? Snatch it up ASAP!

    Peter Thomas Roth 12 Days Of Holiday Glow Calendar
    Peter Thomas Roth.

    If there’s anything to splurge on for the holidays, it’s TikTok-viral skincare. Peter Thomas Roth has numerous notable formulas that are included in this advent cal.

    Glasshouse Fragrances 24 Days of Christmas Advent Calendar
    Glasshouse Fragrances.

    Candles, hand creams, shower gels, and body lotions, oh my! Glasshouse Fragrance’s 24 Days of Christmas Advent Calendar truly has it all. Let’s not forget its adorable packaging and illustrations, too!

    Lancer Skincare 12-Days of Glow Advent Calendar
    Lancer Skincare.

    If Sofia Richie loves a brand, so do we. The celeb has used Lancer Skincare products before, which can only mean it’s time to try it out for yourself with this 12-day cal.

    Charlotte Tilbury Charlotte’s Lucky Chest of Beauty Secrets 12 Door Beauty Advent Calendar
    Charlotte Tilbury.

    Charlotte Tilbury has been one of the buzziest brands on TikTok and social media this year, so it’s only fitting that the MUA put together another beauty advent calendar this year. From the viral blush wand to the celeb-adored Magic Cream, your bathroom cabinet is about to be seriously stocked.

    Best Food & Drink Advent Calendars

    Bonne Maman 2023 Limited Edition Advent Calendar
    Bonne Maman.

    Each year, shoppers seem to flock to Bonne Maman’s advent calendar, and with this good of a product lineup, the hype is understood. It comes with 23 fruit spread flavors and one honey, with new offerings such as Caramel with Cinnamon, Raspberry Chocolate, Pineapple with Ginger, and more.

    Venchi Christmas Bannecker Prestige Assorted Chocolates Advent Calendar
    Venchi.

    You can’t go wrong with a chocolate-filled advent calendar, especially if you have a friend with a sweet tooth on your shopping list.

    Neuhaus Holiday Premium Pop-Up 25-Count Chocolate Advent Calendar
    Neuhaus.

    Make their countdown to Christmas that much richer with this Neuhaus cal. It houses 25 white, dark, and milk chocolate treats.

    Godiva Chocolatier 2023 Deluxe Snowglobe Advent Calendar
    Godiva.

    Give your chocolate-obsessed friend this Godiva advent calendar and they’ll be in sugar heaven this holiday season. I’ve got my eyes on the Mint Medallion.

    Harry & David Deluxe Advent Calendar
    Harry & David.

    Harry & David is a classic site to order from during the holidays. This calendar’s packaging is so cute, but it’s what’s inside that really counts. Find truffles upon truffles, as well as mints, in this adorable box.

    Vinebox.

    For the friend or family member who’s always sipping something new, get them this wine advent calendar from Vinebox. They’ll get to taste selections from Italy, France, Spain, and California.

    Bokksu Japan Wonderland Advent Calendar
    Bokksu.

    We’ve called this one of the more unique options on this list because, quite frankly, it is! Have you ever seen an advent cal filled to the brim with Japanese snacks? We sure haven’t. They’ll have a blast unwrapping 20 different treats and four collectible holiday items, while also reading the culture guide that sheds light on each bite.

    DAVIDsTEA 24 Days of Tea Advent Calendar
    DAVIDsTEA.

    Who doesn’t love a warm cup of tea during the winter? This DAVIDsTEA cal will introduce your giftee to so many yummy flavors, including festive ones like Candy Cane Crush, Sugar Pear Fairy, and Tinsel Toddy.

    Bean Box 12 Mornings of Coffee 2023 Specialty Coffee Advent Calendar
    Bean Box.

    Alternatively, if they’re more of a coffee enthusiast, give them their caffeine fix with this advent calendar from Bean Box. It features 12 curated holiday coffee blends that are sure to make this season merry and bright.

    Best LEGO Advent Calendars

    LEGO.

    It doesn’t matter what age you are, LEGOs will always be fun to build and display. If they’re a total Star Wars guru, this 24-day advent cal is the perfect choice.

    LEGO.

    Visit the wizarding world with this Harry Potter LEGO advent calendar. They’ll get to play with their favorite characters, Harry, Hermoine, and Ron, plus a few others.

    LEGO.

    Calling all Marvel fans, Iron Man, Spider-Man, Doctor Strange, and Captain America await you in this action-packed cal.

    Best Home Advent Calendars

    Voluspa Japonica Advent Calendar
    Voluspa.

    If you have a friend who goes through candles like there’s no tomorrow, they’ll definitely appreciate this Voluspa advent calendar that houses 12 fragrances from the Japonica collection (think Spiced Pumpkin Latte and Santal Vanille). It even comes with a wick trimmer!

    Diptyque Holiday Advent Calendar
    Diptyque.

    Now we know $510 is a lot to spend on an advent cal, but hear us out. You get so many iconic fragrances from the brand, including Baies, Figuier, and Roses.

    Galison Louise Cunningham Merry and Bright 12 Days of Christmas Advent Puzzle Calendar
    Galison.

    If you want to get them an advent calendar that goes beyond chocolate goodies and skincare products, check out this puzzle cal. It lets them put together one puzzle a day for the 12 days of Christmas.

    Happy Socks Assorted 24-Pack Crew Socks Advent Calendar
    Happy Socks.

    This Happy Socks advent calendar has your dad’s name written all over it. He shouldn’t be running low on socks after unwrapping 24 pairs from this playful cal.

    The New Yorker Puzzle Advent Calendar
    The New Yorker.

    This fun option will certainly keep them busy in the month leading up to Christmas thanks to 24 mini puzzles that are 100 (!!) pieces each.

    Best Jewelry Advent Calendars

    Swarovski Disney 100th Anniversary Advent Calendar
    Swarovski.

    You’re bound to know a Disney fanatic who will absolutely adore this Swarovski and Disney crossover. Now there aren’t a bunch of diamonds hidden in each compartment, but there are 22 ornaments, two necklaces, and a set of stickers.

    Abbott Lyon Jewelry Advent Calendar
    Abbott Lyon.

    Your giftee’s holiday ‘fits are about to seriously level up with the help of this jewelry advent calendar. They’ll enjoy getting blinged out with gold necklaces, rings, earrings, and bracelets that are valued at $605 (but only cost you $330).

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  • Seasonal Hiring Is Slowing Down at Retailers—But Not Amazon | Entrepreneur

    Seasonal Hiring Is Slowing Down at Retailers—But Not Amazon | Entrepreneur

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    While the holiday season historically yields an increase in shopping — and subsequent staff needed to accommodate — this year may look different for prospective seasonal workers.

    Big-name retailers, such as Macy’s and Dick’s Sporting Goods, are cutting back on their seasonal hiring initiatives, scaling back their workforce after two years of increased foot traffic following the pandemic, The New York Times reported.

    Macy’s plans to hire 38,000 workers, 3,000 fewer than its 2022 target — and far fewer than 2021 when Macy’s aimed to hire 76,000 people during the holiday season, both in permanent roles and seasonal jobs, according to the Times. Dick’s Sporting Goods intends to hire up to 8,600 seasonal workers, a slight increase from the 8,000 in 2019, but down from the 9,000 hired last year and the 10,000 in 2021.

    A report from career coaching firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas last month found that retailers are forecasted to hire 410,000 seasonal workers this coming holiday season, marking a 15-year low, Yahoo Finance reported in September. Some economists interpret these hiring trends as signs of the labor market cooling down from its pandemic-fueled boom two years ago.

    Related: Want to Be a UPS Delivery Driver? The ‘Hottest’ Job in the Country Only Has 17 Positions Open.

    “The seasonal hiring market looks a whole lot more like 2019 than those pandemic bounce-back years,” Nick Bunker, director of North American economic research for Indeed, told the Times. “I really do think this is emblematic broadly of what we’re seeing in the U.S. labor market, where demand for workers overall is fairly strong but down from where it was in the last year and a half.”

    Meanwhile, searches for seasonal jobs have increased by 19 percent compared to last year, per data from Indeed, while the number of available positions has decreased by 6 percent, per The Times. Companies that assist businesses in finding temporary workers note that major retailers have been slower to announce their hiring plans this year, and fewer job postings are marked as “urgent” on Indeed.

    However, one company is the exception to the scale-back hiring trend. Amazon announced last month that it would be hiring 250,000 seasonal employees, a 67% increase from hiring initiatives over the past two years.

    The company is also adding signing bonuses of up to $3,000 for certain hires.

    Related: Amazon Is Hiring 250,000 Workers Ahead of the Holidays, With Some Making Up to $28 an Hour. Here Are the Roles It’s Filling.

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    Madeline Garfinkle

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  • Saks Off 5th Says Luxury Retailers Are Coming for Discount Stores

    Saks Off 5th Says Luxury Retailers Are Coming for Discount Stores

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    Luxury retailers are coming for sale shoppers and their go-to discount stores.


    Photo by: Jeffrey Greenberg/Education Images/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

    According to Saks Off 5th’s CEO Paige Thomas, the brand saw more competition in the discount store space than in years past, calling the 2022 holiday season “the most promotional” she’s ever witnessed while speaking at NRF 2023: Retail’s Big Show in New York City, per Fox Business.

    Lower prices were likely due to high inventory levels in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and inflation woes, while holiday markdowns “created opportunity for traditional full-price players to play in our sandbox a little bit and so that became absolutely competitive,” Thomas said.

    Thomas said that excessive inventory creates an “unbelievable environment” for Saks Off 5th’s team of buyers to find the best goods for customers, but now luxury stores are using the same “winning agenda” to target sale shoppers.

    Still, despite complaining about luxury retailers (none were mentioned by name), Thomas said customer research conducted by the company shows they are gaining new fans — a high-earning customer that likes deals but doesn’t necessarily need them.

    In addition to targeting this new customer base of “high earners”, that are “very fashion-driven” and “shopped everywhere,” according to Thomas, the brand has invested in technology with the launch of its app in 2021 and its resale partnerships Rent the Runway to help give consumers more access to luxury goods.

    Entrepreneur has reached out the Saks Off 5th’s parent company HBC for comment.

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    Sam Silverman

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  • You Can (And Should!) Spend the Extra Money on Indie Art

    You Can (And Should!) Spend the Extra Money on Indie Art

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    Recently I was delighted to see that a Queer/Femme comics pop-up was being hosted at Stories Books & Café, one of my favorite haunts in LA. It wasn’t just any pop-up, though: it was filled out with the likes of Lisa Hanawalt and Julia Wertz, two of my idols in art and storytelling. I gathered a little group together and we checked it out, only to find that a few vendors had dropped out due to COVID concerns.

    That ended up working well in my favor, though, because I got to meet Koreangry: someone whose comics on Instagram were so impactful to me as an Asian woman, I didn’t follow her for the longest time because they hit too close to home. In the end, the event was more than worth it just for the chance to talk to her, and see her iconic clay doll self in person (yes, it’s just as cute and angry as you’d expect). I bought a book and a sticker, and then picked up a beautiful planner from another Asian vendor, Hellen Jo (whose art is featured up top), on the way out. In total, I spent around $60.

    To be clear: I don’t typically spend $60 so casually, I’m a cheapskate even at the best of times. But I have always been an advocate for spending extra money for things that skirt the traditional boundaries of capitalistic consumption. In particular, things made independently (“indie” things) have never made me wince when they demand so much from my pockets. These artists don’t have structural, corporate safety nets; they have their art, their day jobs, and whatever sense of community they can find. As a person with money to spend, I figure, would I rather spend it on some lovingly made projects of passion that can help provide that sense of security and community, than something mass-produced with no meaning beyond production for production’s sake.

    Moreover, these projects of passion carry more of a punch than mass-produced items. Koreangry’s book really hit home for me, and while before I found these feelings uncomfortable, I now know that even just seeing this book on my shelf will make me feel stronger and more secure as I go about my day. Indie art can do that for you almost 100% of the time.

    Therefore, with all the conversations about the future sustainability of “real” art (not that nasty AI ish), I have to stick my neck out for indie creators here and implore all of you with money to spend and time to kill: it’s totally fine to spend extra for these creators. It may seem like a lot in the moment to pay $30 for a zine, but at the end of the day, if you’ve got the money to spend on pleasure, you’d end up spending it anyways. Try to reframe your mind to understand that instead of your money going to, say, a corporate chain like Barnes And Noble, you’re helping to put food on an artist’s plate so they can keep creating. And in times like these, authentic creation is resistance and something to be treasured rather than looked down upon.

    Now, as a brief disclaimer, obviously if you can’t afford to spend a lot of money on these sorts of things, that’s fine, nobody’s shaming you for it. But it’s counterproductive to then go and attack these creators for their high prices when they’re not even the sorts of rich influencers who are just doing this for giggles and are just trying to make a living doing what they love. Be kind, be understanding.

    So: regardless of whether you’re looking at some demo tapes for sale, a collection of zines, homemade blankets, or anything of the like, if you feel even the slightest bit drawn towards either the creator, the product, or both, there’s truly no shame in doling out extra cash for them. We need to do our part and be proactive in helping these communities stay afloat and prosper in such uncertain times, because if one aspect of the ecosystem starts to fail, who knows what will happen to the rest? I certainly want the future to be art-friendly, that’s for damn sure.

    And on that note, here are some artists I follow that I highly recommend checking out, aside from the ones I’ve already mentioned:

    • Vewn–an animator and illustrator who’s a master of surreal reality.
    • Spit Blossoms–an illustrator who does beautiful, symbolic portrayals of the feminine body.
    • Sarah Glidden–a former “Pizza Island” member along with Wertz and Hanawalt, whose comics feature in the likes of The New Yorker.
    • Choodraws–an illustrator with a gorgeous, distinct style.

    So happy holidays, and if you feel generous, buy yourself a lil somethin’ somethin’ from your local indies!

    (Featured Image: Hellen Jo)

    The Mary Sue has a strict comment policy that forbids, but is not limited to, personal insults toward anyone, hate speech, and trolling.—

    Have a tip we should know? [email protected]

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    Madeline Carpou

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  • My L.A. and NYC Friends Asked for My Winter Shopping List—Here It Is, Everyone

    My L.A. and NYC Friends Asked for My Winter Shopping List—Here It Is, Everyone

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    As someone who writes about fashion, I’m frequently asked by my friends on both coasts what my shopping list looks like. (Even though the West Coast has been my home for the past few years, let’s just say I moved between L.A. and NYC more than the average bear.) When the winter holidays roll around, this sentiment gets ramped up tenfold. I think because I’ve spent so much time in both cities, I’ve managed to acquire a proven track record of knowing (and spotting) what works on the East Eoast, what works on the West Coast, and of course, what works if you’re blessed enough to be a bicoastal queen.

    Considering L.A. and NYC have very different winter climates, I like to focus on buying versatile items that can potentially be worn in both places. Hence, my winter shopping list goes heavy on pieces that you can layer. It’s also cozy season, which means I’m looking for items I can curl up in, like a new pair of shearling slippers or a flannel pajama set.

    So without further ado, my winter shopping list is now at your disposal. And, I’ve gotta say, it’s pretty cute.

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    Courtney Falsey

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  • How Retailers Can Ensure They’re Setup for Success This Holiday Season

    How Retailers Can Ensure They’re Setup for Success This Holiday Season

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    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    Over the last couple of years, Christmas in July has taken on a new meaning for retailers — what once was an opportunity to offer a summer sale has now transformed into a critical time to prepare for the upcoming holiday shopping season.

    But the past few holiday shopping seasons have proven to be anything but ordinary. The past two years, the pandemic caused supply chain delays resulting in backlogs and undelivered gifts, a challenge for retailers and a lesson learned for consumers. As a result, this year, consumers began their holiday shopping earlier to avoid supply chain bottlenecks and to combat high inflation — with 25% of consumers starting as early as August or September. Additionally, the pandemic accelerated the online shopping trend, with new data suggesting that 24.5% of this year’s total retail holiday sales will come from online orders.

    With all of this in mind, some (myself included) may argue that July may be too late for retailers to start their holiday season planning, especially given that the holiday season can account for up to 30% of retailers’ annual sales.

    Related: July Is Just Early Enough to Start Planning for Holiday Selling

    So, how can retailers adapt their strategies to focus on holiday season planning throughout the entire year (as opposed to just the second half) to cover all their bases, increase revenue and prepare for the unexpected?

    Prioritize cash flow planning

    Consumers are currently facing the highest inflation rates in nearly 40 years and a halt in government stimulus payments, which in turn impacts how they approach their holiday shopping (e.g., how much they’re planning to spend, through what channels, etc.).

    As a result, small business retailers are entering a challenging and unpredictable time. To mitigate this uncertainty, they must look internally and assess their cash flow well in advance of the holiday season in order to be best prepared for what’s ahead.

    The most effective way retailers can approach this is by creating different cash flow scenarios early in the year that map out the business’ best-case scenario, worst-case scenario and most likely scenario for how the holiday season will pan out. Accounting for these three scenarios can help retailers create a plan of action for how they’ll tackle any challenges and how they’ll activate each scenario. Proper planning gives business owners the confidence needed to forge forward by removing ambiguity and unexpected situations (e.g., not having enough cash on hand, supply chain delays) come the most critical time of year.

    Whether you’re a big box retailer or a local mom-and-pop shop, it’s important to have a full understanding of your cash flow positioning year-round in order to make key business decisions and plan for various scenarios. For small businesses, leaning into technology such as Xero, a cloud-based accounting software platform, allows small business owners to keep track of their cash flow across the customer journey. Keeping track of this data in real-time can help retailers see their full cash position at any point in the year, which can help contribute to their holiday planning strategies.

    An important question all retailers should be asking themselves early in the planning process is: How will my product/service make out if the economy dips into a recession and budgets get tighter? Where does my product/service sit on the hierarchy of needs? If you’re a retailer selling non-essential items (e.g., jewelry, home decor) your planning strategy may look different than if you’re selling essential items like groceries. Having an understanding of your product and consumer purchase patterns will allow you to assess strategies such as how to price your product, how to manage the supply chain, how to effectively market the product/service and beyond.

    As retailers start their holiday planning earlier in the year, what factors should they consider during the planning process?

    Return policies

    According to the National Retail Federation, $218 billion worth of online purchases were returned in 2021 — more than double the year before. The uptick in returns is likely due to retailers offering more lenient return policies during the pandemic as they sought out creative solutions to address in-store closures/restrictions.

    Two years later, retailers (especially small businesses) are now facing higher costs for labor and shipping due to persistent inflation, requiring them to look inward for alternative ways to reduce costs (which for a lot of retailers is shaping up to include changes to generous return policies).

    My advice: Retailers should continue to offer lenient return policies around the holidays, including keeping the return window at least 30 days (in-person and online) and allowing for online-only purchases to be returned in stores. Keeping the window shorter (but still allowing for returns) can help alleviate the impact returns have on the beginning of the year’s cash flow.

    Supply chain

    Worldwide supply chain constraints have had a lasting impact on retail operations. If we’ve learned one thing from these challenges, it’s the importance of planning.

    Having an adequate supply chain strategy in place will reduce the risk of overspending on unnecessary items and the risk of running out of supply for highly sought items. Ordering inventory early in the year can ensure you have adequate stock for top-selling items when the holiday season rolls around. Not having a bestselling product available often means the product will get substituted by the best alternative.

    My advice: Consumer data is your best friend. Properly tracking and utilizing this data can help you have a better understanding of your consumers and their purchase patterns, and which products will likely be in high demand during the holidays (for inventory planning purposes).

    Related: Think It’s Too Early to Strategize for Holiday Ecommerce Sales? Think Again.

    Labor market

    A tight labor market and rising labor costs continue to cause challenges during the holiday hiring season. Failing to meet hiring goals can eventually lead to a loss in sales due to not having enough staff to help ensure shipments, inventory and in-person sales are accounted for.

    My advice: Retailers should consider revamping recruiting strategies, raising wages, offering flexible schedules and extending benefits in order to attract new or seasonal hires. For retailers who are rethinking their reliance on seasonal workers, consider more appealing offerings for regular staff to take on extra hours.

    Consumer behavior

    The current economic climate has impacted the way consumers approach brand loyalty, with many looking to shop for the best deal, even if it’s not through their preferred retailer. As economic uncertainty persists, consumers are experiencing behavioral shifts.

    My advice: Retailers should focus on loyalty strategies to reward customers for shopping at their stores (e.g., offering exclusive deals to loyalty members or offering a point system for each dollar spent rewarding customers down the line with credit or a gift). Retailers can also draw in new customers by offering bonus rewards for signing up for the loyalty program that encourage them to return to the store. Creating a connected omnichannel experience where the physical and online stores sync is also a big draw for consumers.

    Adequate planning and forecasting throughout the year is the foolproof way to ensure your business is best positioned for the most wonderful time of year. By preparing for the upcoming holiday season year-round as opposed to just in the second half of the year, retailers can directly apply lessons learned from the previous year, effectively plan for various scenarios based on different external factors (i.e., inflation) and get a head start on competitors.

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    Ben Richmond

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  • Buy a One-Year Costco Membership and Get a $30 eGift Card

    Buy a One-Year Costco Membership and Get a $30 eGift Card

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    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    As a business owner working during the holidays, you might be considering whether or not to get your employees gifts to celebrate. A recent student found that 75% of workers said holiday gifts increased their job satisfaction. If you have some holiday shopping to do, you may be able to get it done under one roof by shopping at Costco.


    StackCommerce

    If you don’t have a membership, then you have until 11:59 p.m. Pacific on December 30 to get a One-Year Costco Gold Star Membership for $60, and it comes with a $30 Digital Costco Shop Card*.

    Stretch your gift budget further by shopping at Costco.

    Whether you’re shopping for practical or personal gifts, you may be able to find what you need at a Costco warehouse. With more than 800 warehouses across the U.S., you might not have to go far for your next shopping trip.

    Treat your workers to everything from tasty treats to the latest electronics and home appliances. You could even pick up some new furniture in the same building where you buy the ingredients for an office holiday feast. Fill your cart in store or shop online. Your $30 Digital Costco Shop Card works on Costco.com, too.

    While you’re shopping for your employees, you could also run some personal errands without leaving the building. Visit the Costco Tire Center to have brand-name tires installed while you shop. Pick up a prescription at the Costco Pharmacy or take advantage of Costco Optical. Stop by the food court for a tasty snack, and don’t forget to fill your car with gasoline on your way out.

    Save on gifts and home essentials at Costco.

    If you want to grab a gift for your employees and run a few errands without running all over town, Costco is a great place to shop. Get a One-Year Costco Gold Star Membership for $60 that comes with a $30 Digital Costco Shop Card for $60.

    Prices subject to change.

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    Entrepreneur Store

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  • 7 Ways to Thank Your Employees This Holiday Season

    7 Ways to Thank Your Employees This Holiday Season

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    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    Christmas is around the corner, and the holiday season is in full swing. I like to “wow” my employees with a little holiday cheer every year. As small business owners, it’s easy to forget the important things. That’s where I come in…I simply can’t forget!

    I focus on employee satisfaction all year long, from handing out awards to planning Halloween celebrations. But towards the end of the year, it always feels like the floodgates open up, and I want to give my employees a little more than normal. But where do you start? How do you top yourself every year? Well, don’t worry. My gift to you is this list of seven simple ways to thank your employees this holiday season.

    1. Give a handwritten thank you with a box of chocolates and cookies

    This is the ultimate classic way to say thanks — and it’s still one of the best. This is it if you want something that’s not too flashy but will show how much you appreciate your employees’ hard work. A handwritten thank you letter accompanied by a box of chocolates and cookies. Although this might seem like a small gesture, it will greatly impact your employees. Showing them that you care about what they do and appreciate their hard work will help build trust and loyalty in the company.

    Related: 4 Seasonal Side Hustles to Keep Your Pockets Jingling

    2. Schedule a vacation to the favorite destination for everyone on your team

    I know this sounds like a dream come true, but it’s doable.

    Planning a vacation for your employees is a great way to show them you appreciate them.

    It can be their favorite place in the world or somewhere nearby — whatever makes them happy will do. If you don’t have the budget to send everyone on a trip, consider sending your top-performing or most deserving employees and their families. This way, you can ensure that everyone has a great time without breaking the bank or stressing out about how much money you’re spending.

    3. Do a gift exchange

    A secret Santa or white elephant gift exchange is a fun way to get your employees excited and involved in the holiday spirit. Everyone gets the same amount of money to spend on each other, and they can choose funny, thoughtful or just plain silly gifts.

    It’s also a great opportunity to get some insight into what your employees want — and what they might not have thought to ask for themselves.

    Related: Why Giving Back Is Good for You and Your Business This Season (and All Year Long)

    4. Give personalized gifts

    A gift can be an excellent starting point for developing strong relationships. Giving is great, but giving thoughtful presents is even better.

    Personalized gifts are the perfect way to show your employees that you appreciate them. And when your employees feel appreciated, they will be more motivated and productive at work.

    Plus, personalized gifts are easy on your wallet: You don’t have to spend a ton of money on expensive presents for everyone in your office. Just a little imagination and patience will do.

    For example, if you give your employees a nice bottle of wine but don’t make a big deal out of it, they will think it wasn’t much of a gift. But if you add some personal touches and make the process more thoughtful, your employees will feel much more appreciated.

    A family portrait is my favorite personalized gift.

    5. Hand out bonuses

    The holiday season is a time for giving, and that’s exactly what your employees deserve. A nice, fat bonus will help lift their spirits and show them how much you appreciate their hard work all year.

    Bonus time is an opportunity to show your employees how much you appreciate them and the work they put in this year. If you already have a bonus system, consider adding extra cash to your employees’ paychecks this year. Even if you don’t have a formal policy, consider giving something small as a token of appreciation.

    Although this might seem like a small gesture, it can go a long way toward building relationships with your team members — which is positive for everyone in the long run.

    Related: The Truth Behind The Holiday Slowdown and How to Avoid It

    6. Buy them a present from their wishlist

    This is the easiest way to show appreciation for your employees. It’s also most meaningful because you give them exactly what they want. It’s guaranteed to be something they’ll love and use.

    If you don’t know what they want, look at their social media profiles and see if there are any hints about their hobbies or interests. If not, ask them. Be sure to ask early enough so you can get them something in time for the holidays.

    7. Give employees access to exclusive discounts

    Sometimes an extravagant gift isn’t within your budget. However, you can still make an impact by giving your employees exclusive discounts on items they would love to buy. For example, if you have an employee who runs frequently and loves running apparel, consider giving them a coupon code for 20% off at Nike. This will let them get something they want without paying full price (and it will also make them feel appreciated).

    When it comes to saying thanks, big gestures and impressive gifts are always fun. But simple acts go a long way too. I’m taking these to heart this holiday season because it takes some thoughtfulness on our part to show gratitude and create an atmosphere of appreciation for the hard-working people on our teams.

    Related: These Teens Went on ‘Shark Tank’ With a Product That Will Change the Way You Decorate Your Christmas Tree. Now, It’s a Multi-Million-Dollar Business.

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    Chris Kille

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  • How to Fight Through the Holiday Slowdown

    How to Fight Through the Holiday Slowdown

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    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    Were you like me when you started on your journey as an entrepreneur? You’d get to around mid-November and find yourself frustrated because all momentum seemed to grind to a halt. Your suppliers take longer to deliver. Your clients don’t return your calls or emails for weeks, and there hangs in the air a feeling that nothing is going on (apart from present shopping, of course).

    The Christmas season slowdown has begun!

    This infuriated me as a young man trying to make his way into the business world. Why does everybody just down tools and give up for the year?!

    There’s a general sense that December is a write-off as people slow down and look to the new year. But what is that about? Why do we have this collective agreement, and what can we do about it as frustrated “go-getters”?

    The first thing to recognize is that this is a collective agreement — even Christmas is just that. We see it as the time of the year when we take a break during the cold. Ultimately though, the reason why we all engage in traditional behaviors around this time is purely that we’ve all agreed to.

    Related: 6 Ways to Keep Employees Engaged During the Holiday Season

    Collective agreements

    Everything is really a collective agreement in our society. Most of us agree to:

    • Work
    • Pay our taxes
    • The rule of law
    • Abide by the results of elections (mostly!)
    • Participate in traditions & the conventions of society

    There are clear reasons why we do agree to these things. We understand, for example, that there will be consequences to breaking the law, but it’s still just an agreement.

    We are all free agents within our realm. If you want to get home, strip off and cover yourself in hot sauce…you can. I wouldn’t advise it, but you can.

    But in that (admittedly ridiculous) example, by not doing so, you’re still abiding by the collective agreement that your family would probably deem you to be a danger to yourself and others and also that it would be physically unpleasant.

    Our business practices are the same way. We generally agree that there are specific ways of conducting oneself when onboarding a new client, for example, or when conducting meetings. Contractual obligations are another very literal agreement that we enter into with an understanding of the consequences should either party not fulfill their obligations.

    So why would the Christmas season slow down be any different?

    It does seem like something people assume to be a naturally occurring phenomenon. Like rock formations or aurora borealis. “Well, we’re all getting into the Christmas slowdown at work now. It’s just what happens, isn’t it?”

    But it’s not! It’s only a thing because we think it is.

    The truth is that you don’t have to abide by it if you don’t want to. It’s a relatively harmless agreement, after all. Instead of being frustrated like I used to be, though, think of ways that you can mitigate the impact on your business by shifting how you operate.

    Related: How to Create Trust and Keep Motivation High at Your Company

    Use December to take care of all those tasks that get put off during the rest of the year. Work on your preparedness for the upcoming year by reaching out to clients and asking them for feedback, for example. Or you could make those updates to the website you’ve been grumbling about since 2020.

    More than just housekeeping tasks, though, you could also use the time to work on yourself!

    If you’re finding the stress of running a business is getting to you, now is the time to interrogate that and find out what you can do about it. Start working mindfulness practices into your daily routine. Learn to listen to what your mind and body are telling you.

    Read More: 5 Text Messaging Tips for Businesses to Succeed in 2023

    If you’re at that precarious stage of business ownership, where you’re trying to focus on growth but also having to do the work, now is the time to sit down and determine how you will correct that. Get a roadmap together for next year that you can (and crucially: will) follow.

    It’s easy to see the Christmas holidays as a wind down to a final destination, but there is something on the other side! And it would be best if you prepared for it. Come out of the “new year’s gate” swinging, and you’ll steal a march on your competition. Moreover, your existing and prospective clients will see that energy and what a piece of it!

    The ultimate truth about the Christmas season slowing down is that you don’t have to participate. Others can sign up for that collective agreement if they want to, but you can use it to your advantage simply by reframing the situation.

    Happy holidays everyone.

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    Daniel Mangena

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  • 4 Holiday Side-Hustles for Extra Cash

    4 Holiday Side-Hustles for Extra Cash

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    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    The holiday season is such a busy time that you might not think of taking on a side hustling gig. It’s the perfect time to do so because you are not the only one whose time is stretched to the limit. Everyone is going in ten directions at once; now’s your chance to step in, lend a hand, and make some excellent side-hustle money. Maybe you’d like to earn for that weekend getaway during the cold winter months or pay off those smoking-hot credit cards after your busy shopping season. Let’s look at some tremendous seasonal side hustles that also let you enjoy the fun of the holidays.

    Related: The Holiday Season Means More People Take on Side Hustles — the Difference This Year? They Don’t Plan to Quit Anytime Soon.

    1. Take your e-business live at a show or festival

    The holiday season is bustling with craft fairs and shopping festivals. Here’s your chance to combine a side hustle with valuable business research. My company, Hollywood Sensation Jewelry, has been an online business from the start. This year, my ingenious husband Anthony Hood suggested we participate in the Sunset Market, a huge outdoor market in Oceanside.

    Quite economically, we rented a booth, set up a tent and spent four hours selling Hollywood Sensation merchandise in public. I admit I had doubts about whether this would work for us, and I was even nervous about the public interaction. But, if you’ll forgive the pun, the results were sensational! We sold more than enough to offset our expenses. More than that, however, we got live feedback from real customers with whom we could speak one-on-one.

    If you have a product you’ve never taken out of the e-store, check your community calendar for upcoming festivals, conventions and fairs to get in on a new revenue stream and free market research. The cost of renting a booth will vary depending on the popularity and turnout of the event. I recommend starting small and scaling up if things go well. Be certain that you select an event that jibes with your brand. We might not want to take Hollywood Sensation Jewelry to a plumbing expo, but that sunset beach atmosphere was perfect for some glamor.

    Related: Unlike Many Things That Are a Lot of Work, Trade Shows Are Worth It

    2. Take your skills to the masses

    Do you have a knack for holiday décor? Fancy gift-wrapping? Event planning? Delectable baked goods? Well, not everybody does, and that’s why they need your services, especially at this time of year. Maybe you have a holiday cake or cookie recipe that gets rave reviews everywhere you go. Let folks at the office potluck and the church social know you’re available to bake one for them, too.

    Utilize social media to get your name out there as someone who can put up a beautiful Christmas tree (indoors or outdoors) and otherwise deck the halls. And don’t forget – while many people love to decorate for Christmas, almost no one loves taking it all back down again. Are you willing to do the untangling, repackaging and boxing of all that holly and mistletoe? Maybe you have a pickup truck and can haul away trees for responsible disposal.

    Sites like TaskRabbit.com let you create an account as a helping hand for a limitless variety of tasks and get customer reviews to build your reputation and bring in even more business. For example, TaskRabbit offers the following average costs for these services: “Party Clean Up” for $49-$80, “Toy Assembly” for $40-$99 and “Christmas Decorating” for $48-$86. You can even get paid to stand in line for someone else. I am not kidding!

    Related: 44 Profitable Ideas to Make Extra Money on the Side

    3. Reap the perks of a seasonal job

    Stores and delivery businesses always seek reliable help for the season. Showing yourself as an excellent seasonal employee means you can almost certainly be welcomed back the following year. And don’t forget – many stores offer their regular employee discounts to seasonal workers. If you’ve got your eye on an expensive purchase, you might get another 10% or more off the cost. My friend worked for five weeks at a home furnishings store and saved his family a bundle on new flooring and a refrigerator.

    Here’s another option: party companies are slammed this time of year, and they need people to prep, decorate, serve, check in guests, take coats, valet cars, conduct table games and clean up afterward. I have a friend who deals blackjack at holiday parties and enjoys it. She attends several fancy parties each year, hears the bands, meets fun people who are all having a great time and gets paid for doing it.

    Seasonal job salaries depend on your location, but here are some examples. On average, delivery companies pay about $16.00 per hour, warehouses about $13.80, and store gift wrappers earn around $12.00 an hour. When applying at retail stores with an eye on purchases, ask if their employee discount extends to seasonal help.

    Related: Start an Amazon Side Hustle and Earn Extra Money

    4. Be a sitter

    What do the holidays bring besides good cheer? Travelers! People have places to go and things to do, whether for an evening party, a busy shopping day away from the children or two weeks out of town. Ease their travel stress by being the person who holds down the fort. Reliable and friendly childcare, eldercare, housesitting and pet care take a load off everyone’s mind.

    It’s a relief to know someone is there to keep an eye on the house or check in on older relations to ensure all is safe. Once more, multiple gig websites let you register as a sitter (check out Rover.com or Care.com, for example). Or, get established in one neighborhood as a terrific house — or pet-sitter, and you’ll get more offers. Word gets around on the homeowners’ websites fast, and having multiple gigs in the same neighborhood adds to your convenience.

    Enjoy your holidays

    A holiday side hustle is more than just a way to supplement your income. Getting out into the holiday atmosphere is a great way to enjoy the season’s spirit, ease the stress for others and help create wonderful memories. Of course, giving is better than receiving, but if you can do both simultaneously with a holiday side hustle, that’s quite a reason to celebrate.

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    Mary Hood

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  • 5 Sneaky Ways for Brands to Boost Holiday Sales

    5 Sneaky Ways for Brands to Boost Holiday Sales

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    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    There may still be a prolonged supply chain shortage, but there are plenty of holiday tips and tricks for ecommerce brands to win this time of year. More often than not, most tips floating around tend to focus on different types of acquisition strategies to get consumers to your site. However, I’m here today to offer up one overlooked piece of advice: look to your most loyal customers to reach your goals.

    Your most loyal customers will be turning to you during the holidays, and you should be doing the same for them as a merchant. Remove any friction while creating new opportunities for your loyal customers to share their favorite products with friends and family.

    With everyone in the spirit of giving, there is no better time to promote, package and offer products as gifts. A great way to flip your marketing funnel and build from your most loyal customer base, we’ve seen brands executing this strategy in a few impactful ways.

    Related: How Small Businesses Can Prepare for Holiday Shopping

    1. Promote giftable subscriptions

    Arguably the lowest hanging fruit to optimize your holiday shopping products is to offer the option to “gift” their next subscription order. Take Methodical Coffee, for example! Traditionally, if a customer has too much coffee, a brand would allow them to skip or pause their next order in their customer account portal. However, in addition to those standard subscription preferences, Methodical Coffee allows customers to gift their next month’s subscription order to a friend. Holiday season shopping is a phenomenal opportunity to introduce and educate this option to your subscriber base.

    Another game-changing holiday program we are seeing is giftable subscriptions. Brands such as Scott’s Flowers are leveraging maximum billing cycle subscription programs to encourage customers to gift three or six-month subscriptions to their loved ones. After receiving three months’ worth of flowers, the recipient could receive an email or SMS notification asking if they would like to opt into a full subscription. Talk about the gift that keeps on giving!

    Related: 4 Strategies to Convert Holiday Gift Recipients into Loyal Subscribers

    2. Offer extra loyalty points for gifting

    Loyalty and rewards programs can be strategically positioned to boost referrals this time of year. Over-communicate to your subscriber base that they will be rewarded for gifting products to their friends. The more product referred, the more credits are received. Go further to allow customers to exercise those credits however they wish — setting up the ideal brand experience!

    3. Allow customers to customize bundles

    71% of consumers expect brands to deliver more personalized interactions. What better way to provide personalized experiences than through an interactive and customizable bundle experience? Loyal customers looking to share your product with their friends may want to pick their go-to flavors or favorite colors. Offering discounted variety packs during the holiday is a great way to gain exposure across your product line.

    4. Discounting can be a win-win

    Margins don’t always have to suffer from holiday promotions. Instead of discounting your standard subscription program, offer a greater discount on larger quantities shipped less frequently to save on excessive shipping costs. Taking a note out of Slate Milk’s playbook: they ran a promotion to all subscribers who were receiving packs of 24 cans of Slate milk every month with a significant discount if they switched to 48 packs bimonthly. A win-win situation, with Slate Milk saving on shipping and the customer saving on the overall cost.

    Related: How Holiday Marketing Can Help Enhance your Brand Image

    5. Get in the spirit of giving

    One last note we often see in the ecommerce space year-round that translates nicely during holidays is charitable donations. Companies that donate a percentage of proceeds to charitable organizations tend to see less churn and higher LTV. Consumers care where their dollars go, and they want to contribute to a greater purpose and mission.

    While acquiring new customers with holiday discounts is important, it’s equally as important to lean into your subscriber or membership base. This time of year is an excellent opportunity to come through and leave lasting impressions on your loyal customers. We are confident the tips outlined above will positively affect your short and long-term business goals, just as it has for many other brands.

    Related: Why Entrepreneurs Should Make Charity a Habit

    Bonus holiday season tip: get creative with one-time add ons

    Don’t forget the bow on top, literally. We strongly recommend brands suggest gift wrapping-themed one-time add-ons such as tote bags, branded wrapping paper or gift boxes. This is a great way to increase order value, hedge shipping costs and introduce another opportunity to build brand awareness to a greater audience.

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    Gaby Yitzhaek Tegen

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  • ‘Artist Sunday’ encourages residents to support local artists and shop their work in Akron

    ‘Artist Sunday’ encourages residents to support local artists and shop their work in Akron

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    AKRON, Ohio — We’ve all heard of Black Friday, Small Business Saturday and even Cyber Monday.

    However, “Artist Sunday” is now gaining national attention.

    Artist Sunday is a nationwide effort encouraging you to shop local and support local artwork and artists ahead of the holidays.

    Some of Northeast Ohio’s finest artwork entered the spotlight today and was on full display in Akron.

    “Artist Sunday is an opportunity for people to get to know me as an artist,” said Robert Greer, ZaBre Inspire Chief Executive Officer.

    Akron native Robert Greer pours his heart and soul into his artwork and music.

    “ZaBre Inspire” is his passion project. It’s where he showcases his graphic design and digital photography.

    He jumped at the chance to display his hyper-local pieces on Artist Sunday.

    “You shop at stores. We’re not commercial here. We’re local so all of us artists–we get a chance to show you what we’re all about,” said Greer.

    Paintings, sketches and sculptures took over the Summit Art Space in downtown Akron.

    Local organizations and area artists worked as one to encourage folks to support local industry.

    “It’s a great way to like sort of check two boxes, like support your local artists and find like amazing gifts for your family and friends,” said Lizzi Aronhalt, an Akron Artist.

    Lizzi Aronhalt shares immense pride in the Rubber City.

    The Akron native’s paintings inside of her studio at Summit Art Space are a true reflection of her roots.

    “The work is typically cities and city scales and buildings. It’s inspired by places I’ve lived,” said Aronhalt.

    Organizers say buying pieces from local artists—spurs the economy and raises awareness of their incredible talents.

    It’s critical because during the peak pandemic most art shows were canceled or put entirely online.

    Artist Sunday is now being called a pinnacle comeback moment and a tradition that will continue for years to come.

    “You simply can’t buy a unique handmade gift like this at just any store. You have to come to Summit Art Space. The talent here is phenomenal,” said Heather Meeker, Executive Director of Summit Art Space.

    Shoppers are encouraged to post their purchases on social media and use the hashtags #ShopArt and #ArtistSunday.

    Parking and admission at the Summit Art Space are free to the public.

    For more information, click here: https://www.summitartspace.org/artists-sunday/.

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  • Inflation hovers over shoppers seeking deals on Black Friday

    Inflation hovers over shoppers seeking deals on Black Friday

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    NEW YORK — Cautious shoppers hunted for the best deals at stores and online as retailers offered new Black Friday discounts to entice consumers eager to start buying holiday gifts but weighed down by inflation.

    Due to elevated prices for food, rent, gasoline and other essentials, many people were being more selective, reluctant to spend unless there was a big sale. Some were dipping more into savings, turning to “buy now, pay later” services that allow payment in installments, or running up their credit cards at a time when the Federal Reserve is hiking rates to cool the U.S. economy.

    Sheila Diggs, 55, went to a Walmart in Mount Airy, Maryland early Friday looking for a deal on a coffee maker. To save money this year, she said the adults in her family are drawing names and selecting one person to shop for.

    “Everything’s going up but your paycheck,” said Diggs, who manages medical records at a local hospital.

    This year’s trends are a contrast from a year ago when consumers were buying early for fear of not getting what they needed amid supply-network clogs. Stores didn’t have to discount much because they were struggling to bring in items.

    Early shopping turned out to be a fleeting trend, said Rob Garf, vice president and general manager of retail at Salesforce, which tracks online sales. People this year are holding out for the best bargains, and retailers responded this week with more attractive online deals after offering mostly lackluster discounts earlier in the season.

    Online discounts rates were 31% on Thanksgiving, up 7% from the previous year, according to Salesforce data. The steepest discounts were in home appliances, general apparel, makeup and luxury handbags.

    Macy’s Herald Square in Manhattan, where discounts included 60% off fashion jewelry and 50% off select shoes, was bustling with shoppers early Friday.

    The traffic was “significantly larger” on Black Friday compared to the previous two years because shoppers feel more comfortable in crowds, Macy’s CEO Jeff Gennette said.

    He said that bestsellers from Macy’s online sale, which started last weekend, included 50% off beauty sets. Last year Macy’s, like many other stores, had supply chain issues and some of the gifts didn’t arrive until after Christmas.

    “Right now we are set and ready to go, “ he said.

    Sophia Rose, 40, a respiratory specialist visiting Manhattan from Albany, New York, was heading into Macy’s with big plans to splurge after scrimping last year when she was still in school. She put herself on a budget for food and gas to cope with inflation but had already spent $2,000 for holiday gifts, and plans to spend a total of $6,000.

    “I am going to touch every floor,” she said. “That’s the plan.”

    Customer traffic was also higher than last year at Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota, according to Jill Renslow, executive vice president of business development of the shopping center. She said 10,000 people were at the sprawling mall during the first hour after the 7 a.m. opening, though inflation prompted many shoppers to figure out what to buy before showing up.

    “With the economy, people are planning a little more,” she said.

    Delmarie Quinones, 30, went to a Best Buy in Manhattan to pick up a laptop and printer she ordered online at $179, down from $379. Quinones, a health home aide, said that higher prices on food and other expenses are making her reduce her spending from a year ago, when she had money from government child tax-credit payments.

    “I can’t get what I used to get,” said the mother of five children, ages 1 to 13. “Even when it was back to school, getting them essentials was difficult.”

    Major retailers including Walmart and Target stuck with their pandemic-era decision to close stores on Thanksgiving Day, moving away from doorbusters and instead pushing discounts on their websites.

    But people are still shopping on Thanksgiving — online. Garf said Salesforce data showed online sales spiked in the evening during the holiday this year, suggesting people went from feasting to phone shopping. And with holiday travel up, he said a greater share of online shopping occurred on mobile devices this year.

    “The mobile phone has become the remote control of our daily lives, and this led to an increase in shopping on the couch as consumers settled in after Thanksgiving dinner,” Garf said.

    But with more shoppers visiting stores this year, growth in online sales slowed.

    Shoppers spent $5.3 billion online on Thanksgiving Day, up 2.9% from the holiday last year, according to Adobe Analytics, which monitors spending across websites. Adobe expects that online buying on Black Friday will hit $9 billion, up just 1% from a year ago.

    Black Friday saw some of the labor unrest that has rippled through the retail industry over the past year. A coalition of trade unions and advocacy organizations are coordinating strikes and walkouts at Amazon facilities in more than 30 countries under a campaign called “Make Amazon Pay.” Among other places, hundreds of workers at a facility near the German city of Leipzig staged a protest Friday, calling for better working conditions and higher pay.

    And at Walmart stores, some employees had Wednesday’s deadly shooting at a company store in Virginia in the back of their minds.

    Jude Anani, a 35-year-old who works at a Walmart store in Columbia, Maryland, said the company offers training on how to react in such circumstances but he would like to see more protection. He was happy to see police officer standing outside the store, as is typical on Black Friday, and wished that was the case “most of the time during the year.”

    Against today’s economic backdrop, the National Retail Federation — the largest retail trade group — expects holiday sales growth will slow to a range of 6% to 8%, from the blistering 13.5% growth of a year ago. However, these figures, which include online spending, aren’t adjusted for inflation, so real spending could even be down from a year ago.

    Analysts consider the five-day Black Friday weekend, which includes Cyber Monday, a key barometer of shoppers’ willingness to spend. The two-month period between Thanksgiving and Christmas represents about 20% of the retail industry’s annual sales.

    ——————

    Hadero reported from Mount Airy, Maryland. Olson reported from Arlington, Virginia. Associated Press Personal Finance Writer Cora Lewis in New York contributed to this report.

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    Follow Anne D’Innocenzio: http://twitter.com/ADInnocenzio

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  • The Ultimate -Core Aesthetic Gift Guide

    The Ultimate -Core Aesthetic Gift Guide

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    We know it’s hard to find the right gifts for your loved ones, so we’ve compiled a ton of fashion and beauty-focused gift guides tailored to a range of interests and budgets. Check out our latest below and find more right here.

    Thanks to Gen Z and TikTok’s never-ending churn on trends, a bevy of –core aesthetics have completely dominated both our feeds and our wardrobes.

    There was the escapist, pandemic-driven rise of cottagecoreBalletcore reignited fashion’s love for tulle skirts and slippers. Barbiecore has taken over both the runway and the red carpet.

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    Rosalía‘s “Motomami” era refueled the grime and thrill of all things bikercore, while a growing interest in Formula 1 birthed the sport’s inevitable motorcore. The list goes on and on. 

    With the holidays right around the corner, it’s only right to think of these trends through the prism of gift giving. So, whether you’re shopping for a loved one or checking off your personal wishlist, check out some of our favorite pieces based on TikTok’s biggest -core aesthetics. 

    Barbiecore

    Balletcore 

    Bikercore

    Clowncore

    Cottagecore

    Cowboycore

    Fetishcore

    Fairycore

    Gorpcore

    Goblincore

    Gothcore

    Kidcore

    Motorcore

    Tumblrcore

    Regencycore

    Please note: Occasionally, we use affiliate links on our site. This in no way affects our editorial decision-making. 

    Want the latest fashion industry news first? Sign up for our daily newsletter.

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    India Roby

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