Yes, we all know that the supply chain at the moment is more of a series of broken links than an actual chain. With lead times of 40 weeks (that is not a typo) for outdoor fabric or rugs in production now in limbo, because they were sourced in Afghanistan, it is hard to run an efficient business based on selling, and delivering, home furnishings. Here are 5 ways you can avoid some of the worst of the supply issues.
Buy antique/vintage
Now might be the time to start reevaluating how many antique or vintage pieces you include in your home design. Not only are these pieces available immediately, but also it is a green approach that extends the life of well made pieces. If this is not your usual go to, consider buying and refinishing, it’s amazing how modern some vintage pieces can look with a cool paint job.
Source Locally
Your local vendors are often great resources for in stock and now available products. So visit brick and mortar stores, not only will you be supporting your local economy but you will also be building a reliable resource list that will serve you well into the future.
Reuse and repurpose
Can’t seem to find exactly what you had in mind to buy? Maybe the solution is right under your nose? We have started reevaluating some of our existing pieces, recovering, refinishing and using them in different rooms and different ways. Not only will it make the decorating budget go further but it also gives a new appreciation for the pieces you have collected.
Plan ahead, way ahead
Ok, so things may have a long lead time, so maybe it’s time to start thinking about your designs for next year. A new summer patio for spring 2022, or a guest room for when the kids leave home in summer of next year? Giving yourself time to plan a long way in advance can be a really smart way to save time and money, so perhaps this is a blessing in disguise.
Use our BuyItNow tool on DesignerInc
There are still lots of vendors who have in stock items, and there are few better ways to find them, then to use our BuyNow filter on DesignerInc. At the touch of a button you will be able to see what is available to ship almost immediately. Look like a star to your client when you do an entire presentation that can be implemented immediately.
Like any business, the challenges keep changing, and we have to learn to adapt to a constantly moving list of problems. Sometimes it may seem overwhelming, but like most issues, a little creativity and planning can go a long way to finding a solution and the team at DesignerInc is here to help at every turn.