Just saw the cutest Santa-keeping-a-secret photo on a consignment shop’s Facebook page. The caption was
Tell Santa you found the perfect thing and put it on layaway at Revente! (Now all he has to do is pay the balance)
I’m thinking it could be fun to have available, starting NOW, pre-printed postcards the layaway customer is invited to address to her Significant Other, if she chooses, that YOU will mail in a few days. Something like this is what the card could say:
A note from Santa: Just got a jingle on my Merry Recycled Christmas phone that a loved one of yours has found the perfect gift for you to give them. And it’s been laid away at MyShop [necessary contact info, hours etc] Mrs. Claus and I agree that it would be a real gift for you to pay off the layaway balance and surprise your dear one with exactly what she wants. Call our elves at MyShop [phone number, hours] and they’ll help you fulfill a holiday dream easily… and ecologically too!
And, of course, you’ll use a Santa stamp for postage!
Thanks to our friends at Revente for inspiring this idea!
Auntie Kate The Resale Expert 
What an interesting way to use layaway! Better than having to select from picked over inventory after the holidays with a gift certificate. With a few ready to go gifts to choose from near the counter to add a sense of surprise and Santa’s helper will be both relieved and satisfied. Sounds like a win/win for everyone.
Excellent suggestion, Andrea, to make sure your sales counter is stocked with ready-to-go gift items “so she’s not just delighted to have you retrieve her layaway, but delighted that you’ve chosen something special for her yourself!”
Personally I don’t particularily care for this idea.
Thank you for sharing your opinion with us. Not every idea is ideal for every situation or mindset!