The fall semester is ending earlier than usual, but it’s never too early to start buying Christmas gifts. The recent mail delays and re-workings within shipping services have caused people to start their holiday shopping well in advance. So, retailers of all sizes are feeding into the buzz with constant “Black Friday” deals. 

Since COVID-19 restrictions remain in place this holiday season, physical stores have a capacity limit and people may not want to stand in longer than usual lines, so many shoppers will resort to ordering off websites and home shopping networks, like QVC or HSN, to buy gifts.  

Many Iona students are working shorter hours since school began in August, so they’re brainstorming to find affordable gift ideas.   

Amanda Laverna, a senior business major, is on the hunt for the best bargain. She keeps track of emailed advertisements to grab the best deal.  

 “I have actually begun my Christmas shopping and noticed popular brands like Gymshark having early sales,” Laverna said. “By starting early I can keep an eye out for specific items or brands to go on sale, never really paying full price.”  

Junior Danny Riordan, a media and strategic communication major, emphasizes that the value of a gift shouldn’t be prioritized, but the thought behind it and the memories made should be. 

“With my family, I know that the money spent never really matters. As a budget option, you could go with a picture frame that can hold multiple pictures and put some family pictures from a vacation in the frame,” Riordan said. “You can get one of those at Michael’s for under $25.” 

Brick and mortar stores have been struggling the most during this pandemic, and haven’t been able to compete with large retailers. They’re relying on holiday shoppers to compensate for the financial losses they suffered during the quarantine.  

Junior Paolina Mendoza, a marketing major, intends on supporting those small businesses when shopping. 

“One inexpensive gift I will be giving my friends and family are face masks. It’s a functional gift that won’t break the bank,” Mendoza said. “Also, I will be looking into purchasing from little shops that do crochet work such as hair accessories or earrings.” 

Although the pandemic has brought a melancholic tone to Iona’s community, students are still looking forward to giving presents to show appreciation for their loved ones.