The easing of lockdown measures is leaving people in a bind. Though many remain wary of contracting COVID-19, there’s a common desire for physical interaction after months of social isolation. So, how can shops, restaurants, and leisure spaces create experiences that keep us safe and connected?

More people are searching Etsy for personalised products – including pet treats, wedding jackets, and natural cosmetics. With bespoke offerings helping shoppers to signal what’s important to them, brands that facilitate personalisation may benefit from this shift in shopping behaviour.

It’s well-established that people place more value on things they’ve helped create, but that doesn’t mean everyone will appreciate a custom t-shirt in the same way. Canvas8 spoke to Dr. Anne-Kathrin Klesse, an assistant professor of marketing, to learn how self-image impacts personalisation.

In an age of digital overload, the daily influx of targeted ads and an overflowing inbox are leaving people feeling more stressed than special. Stationary start-up Maurèle is providing an anecdote to generic email fatigue by helping people create meaningful touchpoints through personalised paper goods.