Qalara’s ultimate guide to Christmas decor & gifting

iercing through the winter chill, the most wonderful time of the year is almost here! In the spirit of spreading joy and embracing the timeless traditions that make Christmas a global celebration, this blog post delves into the ever-evolving landscape of Christmas decor and gifting trends. From the shimmery string lights to the joyous exchange of gifts, the traditional feasts to the holiday movie-marathons, there is something about Christmas that evokes familiar comfort and nostalgia, setting the base for a New Year full of warmth and anticipation.

But this post isn’t just about reveling in the magic of the season; it’s a guide for businesses to navigate the dynamic trends that shape Christmas celebrations. With insights and statistics, we aim to provide a comprehensive view of the ever-evolving consumer landscape. Join us in exploring not only the latest in decor and gifting ideas, but also the key considerations for businesses looking to thrive during this merry time, where online shopping trends and traditional festivities seamlessly intersect.

Many begin their holiday preparations approximately two months before the actual celebration, but for most people, these preparations extend until the final week of Christmas. As a business owner, it is crucial to take note of customers’ purchasing preferences.

Also read: When to start sourcing for the holiday season

According to Prosper Insights & Analytics and NRF’s 2023 Consumer Holiday Survey, shopping trends continue with 58% of consumers planning to shop online this holiday season. That is followed by department stores (49%), discount stores (48%), and grocery stores and supermarkets (44%).

Qalara has curated everything you might need to replenish your inventory or adorn your stores and offices this festive season. From room decor to gift ideas, strategic planning to last-minute preparations, here’s a low-down on the essentials:

Table of contents:

Decor

In the realm of interior design, the landscape of decor is perpetually evolving, marked by annual shifts in novel color palettes, designs, materials, and patterns. In this post, we have sorted three of the most standout trends of this holiday season.

Honoring barbiecore

Summer’23 has become a time we will remember for years to come, all thanks to Greta Gerwig’s ‘Barbie.’ The blockbuster-hit sparked a mania among people all over the globe, making Barbiecore the focal point of the 2023 style scene. Pink has been making great strides this year and this summer’s hottest hue is predicted to look cool even in the winters.

Also read: What is the Barbiecore trend: From lifestyle to decor

Mohammad Ahmed, interior designer and founder of The Home Guidance, comments on the prominence of pink in Christmas decor;

Teal, pink, neon brights, and more are capturing the imagination. The fresh take on holiday decorations is not just about making a visual impact; it’s also a nod to individuality and personal expression.

Although the vibrant pink is ‘classic,’ it is advisable to also consider muted or lighter tones of pink to ensure longevity of the products.

In recent times, the industry has noticed a shift among consumer’s mindset towards conscious consumerism. In a 2022 study, Globescan conducted 30,000 interviews across 31 markets to understand shifting trends over time, and reported that 68 percent people ‘agree’ that they would be willing to reduce their consumption by half to avoid environmental damage and climate change.

Consequently, to ensure sustained longevity, it becomes prudent as a business owner to curate an inventory of color palettes that exude versatility and is also ideal for multiple occasions. Such strategic approach is certain to keep your catalog aligned with the ever-evolving preferences of customers, and also proves commitment to both aesthetic finesse and sustainable business practices.

As for patterns, checks, ginghams, classic Christmas motifs or designs, ombres, fringes, and soft geometrical shapes will ooze a refreshing, yet festive-familiar vibe.

Etsy has reported that over the last year, there has been a remarkable 106% year-over-year surge in searches for items encompassing the term ‘iridescent sequin items’. Moreover, Etsy also reported a 225% year-over-year increase in searches for ‘colored glass dishes’.

Bringing in golden or silver accent pieces with a sleek form will also entice customers who aim to create a more luxurious and minimalist space.

Here are more of Qalara’s pick for a jolly pink-mas:

Natural neutrals

Neutrals have undeniably seized a prominent position in modern lifestyle. The current trend is characterized by a profound appreciation for nature, celebrating the timeless allure of rustic wood and the comforting embrace of organic textures. As the holiday season approaches, the charm of Neutral Christmas decor stands out, casting aside conventional, bold, and vibrant color schemes.

Neutral tones, when not artfully complemented by appropriate accents, textures, layering, and hues, may risk conveying an understated aesthetic that some may find overly simplistic. The key lies in the artful fusion of neutrals with discerning elements, orchestrating a harmonious interplay of subtlety and sophistication. The inclusion of elements such as pristine white or metallic ornaments, alongside the warmth of wooden accents, contributes harmoniously to the creation of a tranquil and understated festive ambiance. This nuanced approach not only transcends fleeting trends but also establishes an enduring and inviting atmosphere for seasonal celebrations. Think, earthy baskets, wooden crates, jute place mats, antique decoratives, etc.

Etsy has reported a 277% year-over-year surge in searches containing the terms “wooden Christmas tree decor”. This points to the shift in consumer preferences, where they are making sustainable and eco-conscious choices.

What is even more special about this decor is that it goes hand in hand with sustainability. Moreover, the neutral palette and organic textures also make this decor align with biophilic design, one of the most notable decor styles of 2023.

Also read: Biophilic bliss: Bringing the outdoors in

Alice Moszczynski, an interior designer at Planner 5D, also recommends this style, and talks about embracing natural elements for festive season.

These elements not only add a touch of simplicity and elegance to your decorations but also create a warm and cozy ambiance that connects you with nature during the holiday season.

Also consider stocking lush foliage, and flowers, like eucalyptus, pine branches, wreaths, and dried botanicals, as they bring in a more obvious biophilic, natural element, that will further express a heartwarming holiday ambience.

Classic

To make Christmas reminiscent of the good ol’ days, people often aim to bring in nostalgia with a classical, traditional feel! It is also ideal for last-minute preparations and budget-conscious consumers, however, this trend goes beyond mere affordability. The festive season is about creating moments of joy, warmth, and togetherness, and this decor style is rooted in nostalgia, perfectly capturing the timeless essence of a classic Christmas.

Jennifer Derry, interior design expert and chief merchandising officer at Balsam Hill, says on classic Christmas theme;

Traditions stand the test of time for a reason…. investing in a red and gold theme will see return year after year.

Also, since Christmas is steeped in tradition, vintage and old-age charms will always be in!

Velvet has long been associated with the holiday season, due to its luxurious and cozy vibes. Other natural linens like cotton or wool also contribute to an overall snug atmosphere in Christmas decor. To further elevate the festive aesthetics, stock in patterns of plaid, stripes, checks, or polka dots. Statement pieces like beaded and sequined furnishings or decor pieces also set the perfect tone for an opulent and inviting holiday ambience.

To bring in a new element, consider adding jewel-toned products to your inventory. A mix of midnight blues, rich emerald greens, and damson or berry shades. Such rich hues will look opulent, contemporary, and glamorous, pulling in customers just in one look! Christmas nostalgia isn’t complete without some shimmery, bright ornaments. Consider stocking string lights, embellished furnishings, or gold-hued decoratives.

Here are some more ornaments that will be a timeless addition to your holiday festivities, bringing in both, artisanal and eco-friendly charm.

Browse through more of Qalara’s curated Christmas collection here.

Qalara tip: Doorscaping

The Guardian reports that 6 out 10 Brits plan to buy decorations for outside of their homes. Moreover, experts at John Lewis, a British brand of high-end department stores, also insist on keeping outdoors just as cheerful as the insides. In addition, Mail+Editions also reported that 72% of Brits think outside lighting should look ‘tasteful’. Such findings are enough to suggest that it should be expected from customers to keep an eye on doorscaping decor elements. As a business owner, it is crucial to include such products in your catalog to provide your customers with a well-rounded, and visually pleasing experience.

Source: The Guardian, Mail+Editions

Gifting

In the contemporary era, where gift options are plenty, the task of selecting the perfect present for loved ones can be bewildering for the customers. As the festive season unfolds, strategic gift curation will undoubtedly contribute to a memorable and prosperous holiday for both retailers and their valued customers.

If you are a business or a retailer looking to feature festive gift options on your catalog or brainstorm what to gift your employees, here is a guide to gifting this Christmas.

Also read: Top modern trends in corporate gifting

Personalization

Understanding and adapting to consumer behavior is the key to a successful Christmas season. Personalization stands out as one of the most popular gifting trends. In a Vistaprint survey of 2,000 Americans, conducted by OnePoll, it was revealed that 62% of Americans prefer personalized gifts over costly store-bought items.

Today’s consumers seek more unique, and personalized experiences. Consider stocking customizable gifts, allowing customers to add their personal touch, whether through monogramming, engraving, or bespoke packaging.

Also read: How to personalize corporate gifts effectively

People also give out gifts to their loved ones as per their interests, therefore stocking up modish yet functional stationary items, typography mugs, fandom-related merchandise, and more goes a long way to ensure happy smiles and glee for customers.

Etsy also witnessed an astronomical 18,255% YoY surge in searches for “zodiac sign gifts,” reflecting a substantial and growing interest in personalized and astrologically-themed gifting.

Sustainability

A research finding by Independent UK reveals that about 83 square kilometers of wrapping paper is thrown out or burnt during the festive season- enough to gift-wrap the island of Jersey.

With increasing environmental consciousness, consumers are gravitating towards eco-friendly and ethically sourced products. As outlined in a wwf.panda.org report, the global surge in interest in sustainable products is evident through a 71% rise in Google searches since 2016. This heightened demand for sustainability is particularly notable in high-income nations, including the United Kingdom, the United States, Germany, Australia, and Canada. Notably, this trend extends to emerging economies, with 41% of consumers in China expressing a preference for eco-friendly goods, while in India, sales of ‘natural’ or organic products have experienced a 13% growth since 2018.

These findings show that people all over the globe are leaning towards sustainable products. Therefore, stocking products with sustainability in mind not only aligns with consumer values but also enhances your brand reputation.

Another survey conducted by McKinsey & Co., briefs that 66% of survey participants, and notably, 75% of millennials, consider sustainability in their purchasing decisions. Moreover, consumers increasingly gravitate towards brands that resonate with their values and priorities. Therefore, opting for sustainable practices as a retailer, such as reducing single-use plastic products and choosing eco-friendly packaging becomes essential.

Check out some of Qalara’s picks for sustainable Christmas gifting;

Wellness

In response to the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, consumers increasingly gravitate towards gifts that extend beyond traditional material possessions, emphasizing relaxation and overall well-being.

Research by McKinsey & Co. documents that approximately 50% of consumers in the United States currently express that prioritizing wellness is a central focus in their daily routines, marking a notable increase from the 42% reported in 2020. In addition, there is a growing inclination among consumers to appreciate and actively pursue products and services capable of addressing diverse wellness dimensions, including, but not limited to mindfulness and fitness or nutrition and appearance.

Recognizing this growing trend, retailers can strategically stock their shelves with an array of wellness and self-care products to meet the heightened demand for thoughtful and rejuvenating gifts. Stocking items like aromatherapy sets, wellness journals, and pampering skincare products can align with this trend.

Pretty & practical

The charm of visually-aesthetic yet functional gifts is not festive-season exclusive. For retailers, the merit of such gifts is manifold. Firstly, these items appeal to a broad audience, transcending age, gender, and occasion constraints. Whether it’s a meticulously crafted kitchen utensil, an artistically designed notebook, or a stylish yet functional accessory, the universal utility of such gifts makes them suitable for diverse recipients.

Moreover, the timeless quality of these gifts ensures that they maintain relevance across various seasons and occasions. Therefore, curating such a collection remains a steadfast choice, making them a strategic and long-lasting addition to any business or boutique.

Conclusion

Qalara’s transparency when it comes to the product and the practices of manufacturers, artisans, handicrafts, and sustainability makes us one the most reliable B2B platforms. We offer an astounding range of gifting and decor products that is handcrafted by local artisans. Connect with Qalara to book an appointment and instill your business with artisanal and sustainable values.

Qalara’s ultimate guide to Christmas decor & gifting