Don’t let supply chain issues spoil your holiday.

Dec 16

Tips from La Jolie MLN for a special 2021 holiday.

One Christmas in particular stands out for me. At the time, our daughter Maya was three. We had traveled to visit family in Chicago for the holiday and were eagerly anticipating Christmas morning, watching Maya’s face light up as she first saw (and then ripped into) all the presents under the tree. Early that morning, we heard Maya’s excited chatter echoing up the stairs and thought we better go down. As we entered the room we saw my mother sitting on her chair with a cup of coffee, beaming lovingly at Maya who had already torn into all her presents and was busily playing. It was lovely, and we missed the whole thing! Kind gesture to let us sleep in mom, but really?! We still laugh when we remember it.

The one thing that never would have occurred to us that morning or any other prior Christmas was whether Santa’s supply chain might have trouble getting presents under the tree. This year it’s different. Supply chain is disrupting holiday shopping. But, even if you can’t get the exact laptop or electronic toy you had in mind, there are still awesome gifts to be found.

First the good news

According to a recent survey, shoppers are relying more on brick-and-mortar retail stores this year. In fact 80% of those surveyed said that shopping in stores is the best way to guarantee that you won’t go home empty handed.

Electronics are tough

The big retailers like Walmart, Target, Best Buy and others took steps to ensure that consumers would find full shelves with lots of options. However, if you are looking for very specific things (like a hot electronic toy with a microchip), you may have to start shopping early or come up with another idea. Not only are there shortages on things like PlayStation 5, but the prices have gone up considerably.

Here’s a list of some of the harder gifts to come by

TVs—One expert from a leading research firm stated that, “TV prices are at their highest level since 2012. Customers should expect to spend at least $100 above normal on a set.” It’s not that you won’t find one, but expect to pay more.

Xbox Gaming Consoles—This is a microchip-starved category. Amazon, Best Buy and Walmart are your best bet, but expect to pay more.

Toys—Popular items such as larger items in the L.O.L. Surprise line are not reaching stores. Others, like the Magic Mixer are as high as $170. In fact, nearly all of the popular mixing toys are in short supply and as much as 50% higher in cost.

Laptops—While experiencing delays and shortages, some laptops can be found at bargain prices if you’re willing to click around, shop around and look for something like a Chromebook, discounted on Amazon at a price under $200.

Apple iPhone 13—The much-reported chip shortage forced Apple to cut production on its new iPhone 13 series through the end of 2021, although you can still find them in Apple Stores if you’re willing to pay a bit more.

Apparel and accessories—Lots of clothing and accessories for brands like Michael Kors, Nike, Lululemon and Columbia are produced in countries where the COVID pandemic has had a negative impact on production. But many of these brands announced that, despite supply chain issues, current inventory is still available for this holiday season.

Small retailers put the “merry” back in the holiday season

According to Fortune, “It’s easy to limit your holiday shopping to giants like Amazon, Walmart or Target. You can probably find something that’s…fine. But will it be personal? That’s a bit more hit or miss.”

Small store-front businesses provide jobs for 41 million Americas and have a $5 Trillion dollar impact. Take La Jolie MLN, for example. Not only does this charming boutique located in downtown Elmhurst, IL regularly host parties to showcase new lines, but the product offering is truly unique.

This year, women shoppers will find an update on the classic Chanel jacket, a pair of leopard stretch yoga shorts, perfect for any woman who wants to show off the fruits of her fitness. You’ll also find the hottest gold necklaces, ideal for layering and the latest boots, party dresses, and even a line of t-shirts under the label “Addiction hurts. You can help.” This fun line is just part of La Jolie MLN’s commitment to giving back.