2020 is almost over, so it's time to look towards the future and focus on what's going to be hot on Etsy in the next year! This is also a great time to consider rebranding and developing a new focus for your shop.

1. Eco-Friendly Listings

While 2020 was the true beginning of this trend, we're going to see an even larger movement towards all thing eco-friendly and zero waste on Etsy. If due to the nature of your listings it's impossible to make your product more eco-friendly, you can try these alternatives:

1. Consider donating a portion of your profits to a green non-profit organization such as Green America, or One Tree Planted. You can also choose to donate to a more local non-profit that works on cleaning up the area around you!

2. Try zero-waste and fully recyclable packaging. You can also use packaging that the customer can re-use themselves, like small burlap bags or plain boxes.

3. Hand-write anything that goes into your packaging rather than using ink or toner. According to energycentral.com, "The harmful environmental factors of ink cartridges can be felt since they are manufactured. When you produce a new laser cartridge, you consume more than three quarts of oil. For inkjet cartridges, you require about three ounces of oil. There are many adverse effects of just throwing away an old ink or toner cartridge as the volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and heavy metals present will pollute the soil and water when they reach landfills."

2. Sentimental and Personalized Gifts

This year has been really difficult for everyone, to say the least. It's also changed peoples perceptions and motivations, and this ultimately affects how we shop. We're going to see a shift from less materialism to more meaningful and sentimental gifts. Personalized gifts are going to be a huge 2021 trend: engraved necklaces, custom leather notebooks, baby onesies with names and dates, custom art. Almost anything can be offered with a custom option - don't be scared to try this out yourself, no matter what you sell!

It's also a good idea to offer a "mail directly to the recipients home" option. Let the buyer type in a note to the recipient, that you can then hand write and include in the package. Consider also adding a gift wrap option at either no or little cost to the buyer so that their recipient can have the package wrapped nicely as a present. This is so convenient for shoppers who are unable to see loved ones for the time being!

3. Minimalist Designs

In a similar tone as zero-waste listings, consumers are moving towards a more minimalist lifestyle. This means less in their home, less waste, and more meaning. Millennials are the driving force of this movement - they're not buying things just to buy them anymore. They're buying things that strike a tone, that will add meaning, and that will contribute positively towards their life.

In terms of design, this also just means...less. Etsy is going to see a larger push towards simple designs, more neutral colors, and nothing too busy or overwhelming. 2021 will bring designs that can fit into any space and match any theme. Consider a minimalist approach while photographing your listings as well! Minimalist doesn't mean boring - minimalist photography means neutral colors, light-filled photos, and simple detailing devoid of decoration. Check out this beautiful photography below - it's eye catching, highlights the beauty of their listing, and best of all, they didn't have to go out and buy a bunch of photography props!

(Via: Diamondfishjewelry.etsy.com)

Check out my other blog, 5 Ways to Prep Your Shop for the New Year to learn more about prepping for 2021!

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