Why I am shopping Independent this Christmas
Artwork by Alice Gabb
There is so much to say on this topic, I will save that for another blog post. But for now, a quick post on why I am shopping Independent for Christmas. Shopping from Independent businesses, small businesses and local businesses is so important and a value I try to live by.
Artwork by Lola Hoad
No matter how small the amount you spend in a variety of local shops, the impact is massive. It’s not easy to do it for everything, but every time we do, we are contributing to keeping our towns thriving and diverse.
You don’t need to stick to your local area, buying from small businesses online around the world is also an incredible way to support real people and show appreciation for people doing something they love and you love!
follow the hashtag #buyfromthebush on instagram
My absolute favourite campaign currently is “Buy from the Bush” Buy from the Bush encourages buying from people in regional Australia who are struggling due to the drought and bushfires. These people are often trying to make an extra income to supplement the family. This doesn’t rely on handouts and is such a brilliant way to help fellow Australians. We passed through a few of these areas on our trip to Lightening Ridge, the landscape is so dry and heartbreaking. So search the #buyfromthebush hashtag and find some incredible gifts this Christmas! You can also search #onedayclosertorain and #buyregional. The NSW government even has a section promoting regional businesses on it’s website.
Artwork by Dave Buonaguidi
Holly Tucker (one of the founders of Not on the High Street) in the UK has a yearly campaign to shop independent and I love it! It feels like there is momentum building and slowly people are getting to know the wonderful benefits of having Independent shops and makers. If you have a shop I think the window stickers on the Holly and Co website are brilliant - I want one for my market display! Follow the hashtag #campaignshopindependent.
I have written about Just a card in previous years. They are running “Just a card week” this week - encouraging buying from independent shops and makers. Indie week instead of Black Friday madness. Follow the hashtag #justacard to find wonderful independent shops and makers and be inspired to buy!
Next week there is also #meetthemakerweek run by Joanne Hawker - in case you want to fall down a rabbit hole on Instagram!
Let me know your favourite ways to discover and support small businesses!