thanksgiving and holiday rush: black friday
Thanksgiving has always been a time for gratitude—family, food, and reflecting on everything I’m thankful for. But as soon as the plates are cleared and the pumpkin pie is gone, the energy shifts to Black Friday, and the rush begins. For Astrea’s Corner, this season is one of the busiest, but it’s also one of the most exciting. There’s something about the buzz of orders coming in, customers finding the perfect gifts, and knowing that the items I’ve created are going to make their way under someone’s tree.
Managing the holiday rush is no small feat, but it’s a challenge I’ve come to love. For me, it starts with preparation. In the weeks leading up to Thanksgiving, I’m stocking up on materials, double-checking inventory, and planning out packaging so everything runs as smoothly as possible. But even with all the prep, the sheer volume of orders that come in after Black Friday is always exhilarating—and a little overwhelming.
One thing that keeps me grounded during this time is remembering why I do it. Each order feels personal to me, especially during the holidays. Seeing the “add gift wrap” notes or sweet messages from customers reminds me that Astrea’s Corner is part of their celebrations. I’ve read requests for everything from “Make this extra special for my best friend!” to “Can you include a little note for my mom?” Knowing that what I create can be part of their joy keeps me motivated to work through the rush with care and love.
Of course, balancing the holiday orders with everything else—school, family, and just life—takes effort. I set realistic goals for myself each day, making sure to take breaks and prioritize rest when I can. I’ve learned the hard way that burning out is not worth the few moments of productivity.
This Thanksgiving, as I prepare for the busiest shopping weekend of the year, I can’t help but feel grateful. Grateful for the customers who trust me with their holiday gifts, for the community I’ve built through Astrea’s Corner, and for the lessons this season teaches me about hard work, gratitude, and connection.
To everyone who’s supported Astrea’s Corner, thank you for being part of this journey. Whether you’re treating yourself to something special or gifting to a loved one, I’m honored to be part of your holiday season!
And for all those shopping, use code BLACKFRIDAY for an extra discount on top of the special deals!
