Why October Is the Time to Start Your Custom Holiday Gift
It might feel early to think about holiday gifts while the leaves are still turning. But if you're dreaming of something custom, October is the right time to start.
A custom piece isn't pulled off a shelf. It starts with a conversation, then a design, then hours at the bench before it's ready to wrap. That process can't be rushed without cutting corners, and the holidays are the busiest time of year for us.
Here's why starting now makes a difference, and every date you need to know for Hanukkah and Christmas 2026.
Why October is the right time
Custom work takes time to do well
Every custom piece goes through several stages: a consultation, design, approval, then making and finishing. Starting in October leaves room for each step without rushing.
You have time to get the design right
The best custom pieces often change a little along the way. Maybe you want to see the design again, swap a stone, or adjust the shape. An early start means there's time for those changes and you won't have to settle.
Hanukkah comes early this year
In 2026, Hanukkah begins on December 4, weeks before Christmas. If you're planning a custom gift for any of the eight nights, the deadline to book is just days away.
Our calendar fills up fast
The holidays are our busiest season. Booking early saves you a spot before the rush, and it gives your piece the attention it deserves.
It's the perfect time to use what you already have
Many of our favorite custom pieces start with something old: a grandmother's ring, a single earring, or stones from a piece no one wears anymore. October gives you time to dig through the jewelry box and decide what to bring in.
You skip the last-minute stress
Ordering a custom gift in October means one less thing to worry about in December. Your gift will be ready while everyone else is still searching.
Holiday 2026 dates to know
Save these dates. Each one is the last day to book for that holiday.
Custom pieces for Hanukkah: book by Friday, October 16. That's the last day to book a custom consultation to have your piece ready by the last night of Hanukkah.
Custom pieces for Christmas: book by Wednesday, October 28. That's the last day to book a custom consultation for a piece guaranteed ready for pickup by December 23.
Repairs for Hanukkah gifts: book by Monday, November 30. This gives us time to finish your repair before the last night of Hanukkah.
Repairs for Christmas gifts: book by Friday, December 11. This gives us time to finish your repair by December 23rd - right before Christmas.
Most repairs take 7 to 10 days. Hanukkah runs December 4 to 12 this year.
We're closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day (December 24 and 25).
How to get ready for your consultation
You don't need a finished idea to book. A few things help us make the most of our time together:
Inspiration photos. Screenshots, Pinterest boards or a piece you've admired on someone else.
Jewelry you'd like to reuse. Old rings, loose stones or broken pieces with sentimental value.
The recipient's style. Do they wear gold or silver? Bold pieces or delicate ones? Do they wear it every day or save it for special occasions?
Their ring size, if you're planning a ring. A ring they already wear works if you're keeping it a surprise.
A budget range. That helps us suggest the right materials and design from the start.
Start your holiday gift today
A custom piece is one of the most personal gifts you can give, and it deserves time to get right. If Hanukkah is on your list, book your consultation by Friday, October 16. For Christmas, book by Wednesday, October 28.
Book your consultation below or call us at 206-466-0204. We'd love to help you make something they'll treasure.
Hey there, I’m Nina!
I’m a Seattle-based jeweler specializing in custom designs, heirloom restorations, and thoughtful repairs, all done by hand, start to finish, right here in my studio. Every piece I work on carries a story, and I take pride in preserving that story through craftsmanship, care, and attention to detail.
Whether you’re dreaming up a one-of-a-kind creation, bringing new life to a family treasure, or simply fixing a favorite everyday piece, my goal is to make the experience personal, collaborative, and meaningful.
If you have an idea, or even just a feeling, about what you want, let’s bring it to life together.
