It’s a well-documented fact

that I’m not one to shop on Black Friday.

This is not on attack on anyone who does. By all means, if it makes you happy, shop your little heart out. For me, though, I think it, traditionally, supports unnecessary consumerism and wastefulness, puts unnecessary pressure on people to shop and tends to favor the big box stores that really don’t ever need help in place of small businesses that genuinely can use the support so much more (and are also so much more aware and appreciative of it when they get it).

While I am breaking my “no Black Friday shopping” rule this year (both personally and professionally), it’s primarily to support some of the many small businesses that I love and want to help out this year. I hope as you go about your sale shopping this weekend, and the rest of the holiday season, that you’ll consider doing the same, and keep some of these other things in mind, as well. I know I will be…

A FEW THOUGHTS…

1. Shop small; these businesses need our support more than ever this year

2. Take advantage of sales at big box stores to purchase things like coats, hats, socks, scarves, etc. to donate to a shelter

3. Buy restaurant gift cards; not only do they make great gifts but they also help to support an industry that is very much struggling this year

4. If you have extra money from not hosting larger holiday gatherings, skipping holiday travel, etc. this year, put that money towards food or other necessities to donate to a food bank or shelter instead.

5. Buy vintage/thrifted; it creates less waste, supports your local small thrift shops + allows you to get a unique one of a kind gift all at the same time.

P.S. If you are going to shop on Amazon, please make sure you have Amazon Smile set-up so that a portion of of your purchases goes to a charity of your choice!