The holiday season is a time for joy, connection, and giving. While many people may instinctively head to big-box stores or large online retailers for convenience, there’s just something so special about choosing to shop small. Supporting small businesses not only brings more charm and originality to your gifts, but also enriches your community in profound ways. Shopping small businesses not only helps support the lives of artists and makers, it also means the world to them.
Why Shop Small?
- Unique & Thoughtful Gifts: Small businesses often offer handcrafted, one-of-a-kind items that can’t be found anywhere else. When you shop small, you’re more likely to find gifts that reflect personality and meaning which makes them truly memorable. Imagine your friend surprises you with a coffee mug they find at a big box retailer. Although it may be nice, you remember already have it because your mom got it for you for your birthday. Now imagine your friend surprised you with a handcrafted coffee mug from a local potter and of all of the unique, one-of-a-kind mugs from this potter, your friend chose this specific one because it reminded them of you. Buying small makes gifting a unique and thoughtful experience.
- Supporting Local Economy: Every dollar spent at a small business stays within the community and helps it thrive. This cycle of support strengthens local job markets, fostering economic stability and creating opportunities for growth. It not only empowers small business owners to continue doing what they love, but also contributes to community projects, local charities, and public services that benefit everyone. The more we invest in our local businesses, the more vibrant and resilient our neighborhoods become, creating a ripple effect of positive change.
- Personalized Service: Unlike larger retailers, small business owners take pride in their work and often provide personalized attention to each customer. They can offer recommendations, customizations, and even share the story behind each product, enhancing your shopping experience. Also, if you find you have an issue with your purchase, most small business owners will often go above and beyond to make it right.
How Can I Support Small Businesses This Holiday Season?
- Shop in Person at Local Vendor Markets: Holiday craft fairs, pop-up markets, and local boutiques are perfect places to discover unique gifts while enjoying a festive atmosphere. Plus, meeting the makers behind the products always adds a personal touch to your purchase. Small businesses sped so much time thinking through their booth set-up and, speaking from experience, it makes their day just getting one sale for all of the effort they put into each event.
- Browse Online Small Shops: Many small businesses have online stores that are perfect for holiday shopping from the comfort of your home. Look for independent creators on platforms like Etsy or check out local business directories. Many creators also sell on or from their social media platforms too, so you can find artists and small businesses you love to follow and order from their online shops.
- Spread the Word: Even if you can’t make a purchase, you can support small businesses by sharing their posts on social media, recommending them to friends, or leaving positive reviews.
The Gift of Community
Choosing to shop small isn’t just about purchasing a gift; it’s about investing in the spirit and resilience of your local community and small business owners who are trying to make their career dreams a reality. The holiday season is the perfect time to reflect on how our choices impact the people around us and by choosing small businesses, you’re not only giving a gift to someone you love, but also uplifting the artists, dreamers, and entrepreneurs who make our communities vibrant and unique.
So, this holiday season, consider making a shift—even if just for one or two gifts—to shopping small. You might be surprised at the warmth, creativity, and sense of connection that comes from it. After all, the holidays are about more than just gifts; they’re also about the love and stories that come with them.
I hope you have a Lovelee Holiday Season! :)
Carlee Charles, Owner & Artist of Lovelee Day Studio