Every year, as December creeps up, we get a few messages that start with "I know I've left it late, but…". So this year we thought we'd get ahead of it and share a few tips, because there's nothing worse than a lovely personalised present arriving on Boxing Day. Here's how to make sure yours turns up in good time.
Everything we make is made to order
Here at Red Leader Clothing in Chester, nothing sits on a shelf waiting for you. Every tee, jumper and gift is printed with your names, words or design once your order comes in. That's what makes it special, but it also means it takes a little longer than grabbing something off the high street. We usually need 2-3 working days to make your order, and then it's handed over to Royal Mail for delivery. So when you're working out timings, remember to add both together.
Allow a little extra for the post
All our UK orders go out with Royal Mail Tracked 48 as standard, so you can follow your parcel all the way to the door. If you'd like it a bit quicker, you'll see other delivery upgrades at checkout. One thing to bear in mind, though: Royal Mail handles a huge volume of parcels in the run-up to Christmas, so estimated delivery dates can sometimes push out a little. Even if you order early, it's worth allowing for a few delays in the postal network, just in case.
Keep an eye on our last order dates
Each year we set a last recommended order date for Christmas delivery, and we'll put it up on the website as soon as it's confirmed. It's worked out from our production time and Royal Mail's own last posting dates, so it really is the last safe day. Please don't treat it as a target, though! The closer we get to Christmas, the busier the post gets, and the more chance there is of a delay that's completely out of our hands. If you can, aim for at least a week before.
Check your personalisation before you click buy
This one sounds obvious, but it's the thing that catches people out most. Double-check the spelling of names, especially the tricky ones (is it Katie, Katy or Caitlin?), and make sure dates and wording are exactly how you want them. We print exactly what you send us, so a quick read-through saves a lot of heartache, and it means we don't need to come back to you with questions while the clock's ticking.
Get the sizes right first time
If you're ordering clothing as a gift, it's worth doing a bit of quiet detective work. Have a sneaky look at a top they already wear, or ask someone close to them. Our size guides are on each listing, and it's always worth a glance because some of our styles fit differently. Getting it right first time means no swaps in the new year.
Order everyone's at once
If you're sorting matching family tees, Christmas jumpers for the kids or gifts for the whole team, try to put it all in one order. It'll all be made together and arrive together, and you won't have to keep track of a handful of parcels. It's also a great excuse to tick a big chunk off your list in one go.
A few ideas to get you started
Our personalised Christmas tees are always a favourite, whether it's matching family tops for Christmas morning photos, a "first Christmas" tee for a new couple, or something cheeky for the office party. Personalised gifts are lovely for the people who are hardest to buy for, too, because nobody else will turn up with the same thing. Have a browse and you'll find plenty to choose from.
If you've left it late
Don't panic! Get in touch and we'll always tell you honestly whether we think it'll make it. We'd much rather be upfront with you than let you down on the big day.
From all of us here in Chester
Thank you for supporting a small family business, whether this is your first order or your fifteenth. Every order means a lot to us. We hope your gifts bring plenty of smiles, and that you have a wonderful Christmas.
Claire & Sam, Red Leader Clothing