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Publish Date December 10, 2020
The holiday season is in full swing and just like everything in 2020, we can expect that holiday shopping will also look a bit different this year.
In order to avoid crowded stores in December, many are choosing to shop online. This has been the case for the last few years, however this year consumers are placing orders earlier with the guarantee the item will be available, and allowing plenty of time for shipping.
Even if you are more comfortable shopping online this season, you may also support local, small businesses. “People can find local businesses online. Most places will use Facebook marketplace to sell, or have ecommerce websites,” says Doug Edel, Loan Officer at Fidelity Bank & Trust. “They are just as convenient as Target or Amazon.”
This year, showing your support for small businesses is particularly crucial as many businesses have struggled during the pandemic. Edel explains, “The holiday shopping season is often the last chance to generate a profit in order to stay in business and keep employees working.”
In addition to online shopping, Edel suggests that gift cards can be another great way to support local businesses. “During the holidays Fidelity Bank & Trust offers $0 Purchase Fee Gift Cards. You can buy gift cards and suggest shopping local in the card.”
It’s exciting to think about the joy on loved one’s faces as they open their gifts, but holiday shopping can also be a stressful time if you do not go into it with a plan. When setting a budget for holiday expenditures, Edel says to, “start with what you can afford to spend and make sure you stick to it so you don’t end up with a surprise credit card bill that you cannot pay off in a realistic amount of time.”
Thinking ahead to 2021, there are ways to make sure you are financially prepared for the holiday shopping season. Fidelity Bank & Trust is proud to offer a Christmas Club account, allowing customers the opportunity to spread their savings through October versus a couple paychecks. “People love getting their payment from their Christmas Club account in October,” says Edel. “It’s nice to know you don’t have to stress about money during the holidays.”
We are a part of your community, and hope you join us in supporting our local businesses all season long. However you choose to spend this holiday season, spend it with your Hometown Bank - Fidelity Bank & Trust.