Just want to alert you that this is a quick post as we’re prepping for what is supposed to be an epic blizzard this coming weekend and we’re hoping to get this scheduled in the queue in case we lose power.
Although a short post, it should give you something to ponder long after reading.
The question is, “What will you choose, stuff vs experiences?”
There was an interesting article recently in the Washington Post stating that retailers have been noticing a 3 % drop in consumers spending on material goods. More often experiences that involve doing something, like going out to eat and travel are being purchased over material goods and Millennials are the drivers for such purchases.
This is not to say some retail items have been “hurt” in this purchasing shift. Certainly technology goods and even automobiles remain robust, but it’s the $150 cashmere sweater or the expensive leather handbag that were given as examples that are being re-thought over experiencing a gourmet meal or a new dining adventure.
A lot of us can relate to having too much stuff vs experiences. It seems like at the start of the each new year, ways to organize and store it all (along with plans to get in shape) are top priorities. In fact, if we get snowed in on the East Coast, we may start to feel stir-crazy with all our surrounding stuff, especially if it is not put to good use and just becomes visual clutter.
The article goes on to state that retailers are looking for ways to broaden their shoppers’ experience; therein, the ability to customize is coming into fashion. For instance, Nordstrom has added customizable footwear in their stores.
Although the article seemed to imply that this is bad news for retailers, we at Casart coverings don’t think it’s bad news for boutique retailers — those who specialize in customization, unique and personalized products. This type of purchase, rather than one that may be mass-produced, as just another item, can give the experience one may be looking for.
The ability to personalize your space, do it yourself (DIY) and invite others to share in the ambiance you’ve created is the experience of community, quality of life and enjoying life with others. It’s more than just showing off your interior décor as stuff, it’s about connection, sharing your personality and inviting others into that shared experience, perhaps with a get-together over cocktails and or dinner and one that may even be prepared by all the guests attending. This type of experience actually saves the cost of an expensive meal and affords the opportunity for many experiences by creating a space that you enjoy. Using self-adhesive wallpaper can help personalize your space easily and conveniently. Even more practical than traditional or other types of wallpaper, is that you can remove and reuse Casart wallcoverings, so you can change your space seasonally or whenever you want.
Now, if this is in fact an epic blizzard for the decade — one that will rival the last big snowmageddon of 2010, then we may very well be welcoming a shared meal with a neighbor or two — and looking forward to it!
While you are pondering stuff vs experiences, we are wishing you warmth and happiness and bliss that the downtime of a blizzard can bring.
If you are in this snowstorm’s path, please be safe and hope you enjoy.
Here’s another “blanket of white” to consider.
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