The holiday season often fosters a culture of excessive consumerism. As an individual deeply committed to environmental preservation and sustainable practices, I have curated this gift guide to provide you with alternative options that promote conscious decision-making when it comes to gift-giving.
Within this post, I will share valuable tips and gift ideas that have a lasting impact, bringing joy to your loved ones while also supporting small businesses.
Tip 1 – Don’t Buy Wrapping Paper
This holiday season, I encourage you to refrain from purchasing new wrapping paper and instead utilize materials you already have at home, such as newspapers or saved paper. Alternatively, consider investing in reusable totes for your shopping needs.
Tip 2 – Avoid useless gifts
Let us reflect on the fact that most individuals possess an abundance of socks, rendering them unnecessary gifts. To truly offer a valuable present, it is crucial to consider the recipient's needs or preferences. If uncertain, a gift card to their favorite local restaurant or shop can be a thoughtful alternative.
Tip 3 – DIY and be creative
I firmly believe that do-it-yourself gifts hold a special place in the hearts of recipients, adding an extra touch of enchantment to their experience. Choose a creative endeavor that resonates with you and transform it into the ideal gift. Here are a few of my suggestions:
- Craft delectable biscuits, muffins, or panettone and elegantly package them as a thoughtful present. During the festive season, I always find joy in baking for gifting purposes.
- Prepare a personalized blend of granola, incorporating your best friend's preferred ingredients.
- Indulge in the art of homemade chocolate creation.
- Engage in the craft of knitting or knotting to fashion a cozy scarf, socks, cap, or any other warm accessory.
Tip 4 – Support Local businesses.
In the year 2020, it is crucial to extend our support to local businesses. By patronizing these establishments, we not only contribute to the growth of the regional economy, but also ensure the preservation of employment opportunities.
Additionally, engaging with local sellers provides us with the advantage of receiving personalized and tailored advice. It is indeed a commendable endeavor to endorse these businesses through our purchases. Here are a few suggestions to consider:
- Opt for regional wine produced by the winemaker in close proximity.
- Purchase plants from the nursery conveniently located around the corner.
- Choose to visit the small, charming pastry shop instead of the larger coffeehouse chain.
Tip 5 – Giving back buys
Engage in philanthropy while indulging in your shopping endeavors by selecting products that contribute to charitable causes. A wide array of items, ranging from fashion and beauty to food, offer you the opportunity to make a positive impact while making your purchases. Here are a few suggestions:
Humble Brush – By purchasing this product, you actively support oral health outreach projects aimed at benefiting children.
L’Occitane Solidarity Shea Balm – This product not only enhances your beauty routine but also aids in promoting women's leadership in Burkina Faso through its associated projects.
ELEPHANT X OMNI Bottle – Opting for this product allows you to contribute towards the conservation efforts aimed at safeguarding the majestic elephants.
WholesomeSoybean Tote Bag – By acquiring this tote bag, you actively support causes related to Immigrant Rights and the End Family Separation movement.
