The Boutique Hub teamed up with the Reps Are Local Too community to bring you the first-ever What’s Trending in Gift & Home guide—your go-to resource for holiday product buying, merchandising ideas, and boutique inventory planning. This collaboration across the gift and home industry showcases products and trends that independent retailers need to know now.
Holiday Buying Tips: When to Order for Your Gift & Home Store
Timing is everything when it comes to holiday product buying for boutiques. Independent retailers know that the best trends aren’t discovered online—they’re seen on the road, in showrooms, and through trusted sales reps. That’s why the Reps Are Local Too Gift Guide is an invaluable tool for boutique owners planning holiday inventory.
Industry-standard timing for holiday products:
- Order Early: Most boutique and gift retailers begin ordering holiday inventory July–August to secure top-selling holiday gifts for home stores.
- Stock the Floor: Display holiday merchandise by early October to capture early shoppers and holiday events like Halloween, Thanksgiving, and pre-Black Friday traffic.
- Peak Sales Period: November–December is peak holiday shopping season. Make sure your store is fully stocked and merchandise is fresh, on-trend, and well-displayed.
- Markdown Timing: Start post-holiday or late-season markdowns around December 26–January 5 to clear remaining inventory, with larger discounts closer to the new year.
By reviewing curated selections early, retailers can:
- Spot emerging holiday gift trends for boutiques before they hit mainstream stores.
- Stock unique home décor and seasonal gifts that resonate with shoppers.
- Plan inventory and markdown strategies for maximum profit.
Featured Products & Merchandising Ideas
Inside the guide, you’ll find curated themes, standout products, and boutique merchandising tips for holiday season success. From seasonal décor to must-have holiday gifts, the selections reflect what’s catching the eye of shoppers today—and what will keep your store ahead in the new year.
By incorporating these trends into your holiday planning, you can:
- Delight customers with fresh, on-trend holiday products.
- Schedule your holiday buying and markdowns for maximum ROI.
- Connect with local sales reps who understand your market and can provide personalized guidance.
The Value of Local Reps
Inspired by the shop local movement, top agencies in the gift and home industry joined forces to champion “Reps Are Local Too.” Local reps offer expertise and support that online ordering cannot match—helping boutiques with:
- Product availability and ordering.
- Merchandising and display ideas.
- Personalized recommendations based on your store’s style and clientele.
Stay Ahead This Holiday Season
The What’s Trending in Gift & Home Guide is a must-have resource for independent retailers looking to stay informed, inspired, and ahead of the competition. By following industry-standard holiday buying and markdown timing, and leveraging local sales reps, you’ll ensure your boutique is stocked with the right products at the right time, while keeping customers engaged and delighted throughout the season.
Connect with Your Rep at a Tradeshow in 2026
Looking to take what you’ve seen in this guide to the next level?
Don’t miss the chance to connect with your local rep in person at an upcoming 2026 tradeshow! It’s the best way to explore new product lines, build relationships, and see trends come to life before they hit stores. Get the full list of 2026 Tradeshows here.
Ready to Grow Your Home & Gift Business?
Join The Boutique Hub to access exclusive buying resources, retail education, and member-only perks designed to help you grow your home and gift business. From market prep to merchandising and marketing, membership gives you the tools to plan smarter, sell stronger, and connect deeper.
