Lucy Loves: 3 Last-Minute Gift Ideas that Support Small Businesses
December Lucy Loves: 3 Last-Minute Gift Ideas that Support Small Businesses
The truth is, most of us don’t realize the impact our everyday purchases make, much less the impact of our holiday spending. And mind you, the impact can be a positive OR negative thing. Every time you click the “buy now” or “complete purchase” button, you’re making an impact.
Unfortunately, with today's drive for fast fashion and “more for less” mindset, more people than ever are making purchases that have a negative impact (like being detrimental to the environment and/or supportive of poor working conditions for employees). What’s even more unfortunate is that most consumers are making these decisions unknowingly. Marketing from huge companies with massive funds shows us what’s available and we go for it. We buy the graphic t-shirt, mass-produced candle, computer-generated art print, etc.
But what if I told you that choosing small businesses to buy from online instead would make a much more significant impact than you realize? The GOOD kind, that is!
You see, I know firsthand what it feels like to be supported as a small business owner/maker. I know what it’s like to do a little happy dance when I see an order come through. I know the joy that fills my heart when I sit down to write a thank you note and send off a package. I know what it feels like to be so grateful that a customer chose to buy something from my business, even when it meant spending a little more.
At the end of the day, I totally understand that REAL factors go into decision-making when it comes to buying. I know not everyone can afford the most expensive, one-of-a-kind products or gifts. But I am also here to tell you that choosing to shop small this holiday season doesn’t have to break the bank, and it can truly be the most meaningful thing you do all year.
When you’re on the hunt for a last-minute gift (we’ve all been there), it can seem easiest and most convenient to hop online for overnight shipping or run to the nearest big-box retailer. But there are actually some unique gifts you can give, even when you’re in a pinch!
That’s why today I am sharing 3 Last Minute Gift Ideas that support small businesses - even mine!
1. Tickets to a Retreat or Workshop are a great gift because they can be delivered electronically, and they’re something the recipient can look forward to! Trust, me, they’ll be so excited when the event rolls around, it’ll feel like they’re receiving the gift again! A great option for this is Hearts of Rest, a faith-based women’s retreat happening February 3-5 at Pursell Farms in Sylacauga! For other options, just try googling “workshops or retreats near me” or even better, search in a city you’ve been wanting to travel to!
2. Hosting a private workshop is THE answer to checking your entire family or group of friends off your list at once! And did you know I now offer private workshops with Lucy’s Inspired!? Anything from hat-making to jewelry-making to art - if it’s creative, we can probably do it! Plus, these workshops are customizable to your preferred space, theme, and more! Click here to learn more/get pricing.
3. Small Business Gift Cards are the easiest and best way to support a small business at the last minute. Many people assume they’ve missed their shot to support local businesses or shop small, but gift cards are always available, and can often be delivered in an instant! Here are a few of my personal favorite small businesses to buy from online:
Stitched stories incredible embroidery kits
Shop Meridian NY perfect accents for your home
Do Good Adventures my favorite candles
Arlo Goods comfortable and stylish slip dresses and robes made of recycled bottles
Copper Union my favorite kaftans made from limited fabrics in amazing prints!
synesthesia tarot these are the most beautiful tarot cards I've ever seen.
Oakland Tea and Co delicious teas, boba, and syrups
Found Jewelry bead wrap bracelets for the best arm party
Audrey George handmade earrings unique styles for all the jewelry lovers
The Esthetic Loft my go-to for eyelash extensions, facials, and skincare tips
So when you’re checking loved ones off of your list this holiday season, I encourage you to stop for a moment and consider purchasing something that will not only be meaningful to the recipient, but also to the sender! Your investment in small businesses goes further than you may ever know.
What’s your favorite small business to support, especially for gift-giving? Let me know!
If you’ve been looking for small businesses to support all year long, bookmark this blog post so you can come back to it, and give me a follow @lucysinspired on Instagram where I LOVE sharing about companies I love!