I could have called this post “How Not to Miss the Best Holiday Finds.” If you want the prettiest decorations or the trending pieces, the time to start shopping is now—before the best items sell out.
Yes, I know it’s not even Halloween and many of us haven’t finished our fall decorating. But if the last few years have taught us anything, it’s that supply chain challenges and high demand can leave shelves empty quickly. That’s why I’m sharing what I watch for and how I get ahead of holiday sell-outs so you don’t miss the pieces you love.
Wouldn’t it be nice to have your holiday shopping done early, so you can relax once the season arrives? A little strategy now can save a lot of stress later.
Top Holiday Decor Sell-Outs Every Year
Right now most holiday items are still in stock, but many will be gone by late October or early November. If you’re planning to buy a new artificial tree, garland, tree collar, or seasonal tabletop decor, I recommend shopping immediately. Some items are already moving fast.
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For example, the tree I normally use in my living room is gorgeous but notably more expensive this year. I’d wait for a price drop on that one. Instead, consider alternatives that tend to sell out quickly—like LED twinkle trees that offer both warm white and colorful light options. They’re easy to set up and available in many sizes.
Below are the most popular items I recommend grabbing early. These are things I’ve shared in the past that consistently sell out or spike in price later in the season.
- ‘Feel Real’ Pre-lit Artificial Christmas Tree – My living room tree for years; it’s beautiful and long-lasting. Note: the price has risen since I purchased mine. If you see it near the price I paid in past years (around $450), it’s a good buy.
- Woven Tree Collar – A favorite square woven tree collar that sells out fast. A stylish finishing touch that elevates any tree base.
- Scalloped Woven Tree Collar – A slightly pricier alternative, but a beautiful choice if the first collar is gone.
- Hanging Iron Bells – I use these all over wreaths and garlands. They’re charming, versatile, and often go out of stock or rise substantially in price later in the season.
- Real Touch Norfolk Pine Garland – I layer this over cheaper garlands for a full, realistic mantel display. I’ve seen this garland spike in price later in the season, so buy while it’s reasonably priced.
- Pine Tree Reversible Towels – These reversible hand towels were hard to find a few years ago but add a subtle seasonal touch that lasts through winter.
- Mercury Glass Ornaments – Classic, reflective ornaments that provide a beautiful vintage look. I recommend buying quality ornaments now before they sell out.
- Stewart Plaid Duvet Cover and Pillow Shams – I use this plaid bedding in my bedroom and love the warm, classic feel. Plaid bedding often sells out quickly, so don’t delay.
- Enchanted Woods Plates & Mugs – Festive dishware and mugs are perfect for holiday place settings and coffee stations. They tend to disappear by November.
- Tabletop Christmas Trees – Small, decorative trees are great scattered around the house and are frequently popular sellers. I like a mix of inexpensive and pre-lit options for different spots in the home.
- Mini Wreaths – Perfect for cabinet doors, chair backs, or windows. Small wreaths are often a top-seller and can vanish quickly.
Get Inspired Early
If it’s hard to picture Christmas decorations because your weather still feels like summer, look back at last year’s holiday posts for inspiration. Reviewing past decor ideas helps you decide what you truly want to buy and what will suit your home.
- Blue and White Christmas Living Room
- 7+ Ways to Decorate with Christmas Ribbon
- Traditional Christmas Living Room Decor
- Christmas Bedroom Decor
- Traditional Christmas Kitchen Decor
- Blush and Brass Christmas Office
- My Christmas Decorating Plans
A practical tip: I buy now and stash items in a closet until I’m ready to decorate (typically after November 1). Buying early avoids last-minute shipping delays and missing out on the pieces I want.
Stores to Watch Closely
Knowing when stores release holiday inventory helps you act fast. In many cases holiday items are limited runs and not restocked, so once something is gone, it can be gone for good. My approach is to buy when I’m unsure and return later if it doesn’t work—often I wish I’d bought more.
- McGee & Co. – A favorite for eclectic, curated holiday pieces and ornaments. Their seasonal collections sell quickly.
- Target – Affordable and accessible holiday lines like Hearth & Hand with Magnolia and Studio McGee usually move fast. Use “notify me” alerts when items are out of stock.
- Brooke & Lou – A smaller shop with distinctive handmade items. Some pieces are pricey, but others are very reasonable and sell out fast.
- Pottery Barn – Classic holiday decor that can disappear early in the season.
- Ballard Designs – Ideal for traditional styles and seasonal staples.
- Cailini Coastal – Great for coastal and Nantucket-inspired holiday accents and specialty ribbons.
Shopping for Others
Don’t forget gifts while you shop for decor. I have a growing collection of gift guides for everyone on your list—men, women, teens, kids, babies, parents, teachers, and friends. Start early if you want thoughtful, unique items rather than last-minute substitutes.
Industry reports are suggesting shipping delays and limited product quantities this season. If you already know what to buy for someone, go ahead and get it now to avoid disappointment later.
I hope these tips help you feel organized and confident heading into the holidays. If you have other strategies or favorite sources I missed, please share—I’m always looking for more ways to shop smarter and decorate with less stress!
More Posts You Will Love:
- 7+ Ways to Decorate with Christmas Ribbon {Sources & Ideas!}
- How to Put Lights on a Christmas Tree (so that it glows!)
- Beautiful Christmas Printables for Your Home!