I get it. The Halloween decorations aren't down yet and we haven't even gotten to Thanksgiving yet! It's too early to be thinking Christmas. But here in the world of handmade goods, I've been thinking Christmas rush since September.
Time is quickly running out if you'd like to order something exceptional for that special someone. How can that be when Christmas is still nearly two months away?
Well, here are the maths:
In order to guarantee everything arrives in time to be put under the tree before the 25th, dealing with the burdened postal system, I want to have every Christmas order finished and in the mail two weeks ahead of time. That's Dec. 11, which leaves only 5 full weeks for fulfilling orders. Depending on the type of order, it can take as little as a day to complete, or as much as a week. On average, I can complete 5 custom items in a week, so realistically there are only 20-25 spots available to guarantee your order. With each passing day that number will decrease, even if there aren't any orders because it is time lost. These spots will be given first come/ first serve, and I will stop accepting orders for Christmas at the end of the November. After Dec. 1st, all orders can expect a 2018 arrival, so there are only 4 weeks left to get in those orders.
That really snuck up on you didn't it!?
The nature of my business is difficult because it's really just me in my studio making everything completely by hand. There aren't any shortcuts. Quality takes time. So, even though I truly want to make sure everyone can place an order for the holidays, I simply cannot guarantee it. Last year I accepted orders as late as a week before Christmas simply because I launched my business mid-November. That put me in the position of working every waking moment to fulfill orders and hand delivering the last order on Christmas Eve. While I am willing to work 12+ hour days, I can't allow myself to be put in that situation again.
So, while I understand it's too early to be thinking about Christmas, if ordering something from me was in the back of your mind, for your sake and mine, contact me as soon as possible to reserve your spot in line. I will do everything in my power to make sure you get something exceptional that your loved one will cherish for life. If I don't have the right thread or leather colors you were hoping for, I'm willing to order them just for you, but I have to have enough time to account for my supplier's Christmas rush. Unless you intend to purchase from my existing stock (which is a great option for fast turnaround) last-minute shopping is not an option.
I hope to hear from you soon and begin hand crafting a gift that is sure to impress.