This year, I’ve decided to shift my focus during the Christmas festivities. Unlike author Robert Fulghum, who once abstained from buying Christmas gifts, I won’t completely disengage from the custom. While the idea of escaping the commercial frenzy surrounding the holiday season seems appealing at times, my initiative revolves around injecting value into the gift-giving ritual. I aim to purchase presents that will not only bring joy to my family but also offer support to the sellers.
Many of my gifts this year will be sourced from local producers or artisans represented with Etsy stores and international platforms like Novica.
The reason behind this choice?
Over the past three years, I’ve been delving into the work-from-home lifestyle, a choice increasingly preferred by many women and a fair share of men. In a society where dual incomes are requisite, this arrangement offers a balanced equation between nurturing the children and chasing your professional ambitions. My journey has fostered a strong empathy for others navigating the same path, triggering a desire to extend my support.
Moreover, I intend to voice my protest against corporate giants and their relentless pursuit of profit.
My childhood memories of Christmas shopping involve a frenzy unleashed post-Thanksgiving. Although commercialization was prevalent, it was relegated to the month leading up to Christmas. Today, the continuous encroachment of Christmas decorations into early fall displays corporate greed at its finest. I find it hard to lend my support to an entity that undermines the essence of Thanksgiving in its pursuit of revenue.
My primary goal is to endorse local artisans and resist supporting large corporations.
If supporting local commerce aligns with your values too, Etsy is a treasure trove of excellent gifting options such as crafts, hand-knitted scarves, home-made dolls, and much more.
Novica is another superb platform. Collaborating with local craftsmen from across the globe, Novica facilitates the sale of their handmade articles while ensuring fair remuneration and global visibility. My purchases from Novica have always exceeded my expectations.
Lastly, do consider exploring your local markets. Patronize your neighborhood gift stores or purchase unique items from local establishments. For instance, this year, I plan to treat my husband to an array of sausages from a local enterprise that has just commenced business this summer.
Indeed, how we allocate our funds is a personal choice. Choosing local might restrict the scope of available products, but I prefer to capitalize on the Christmas spirit to nurture individual artists rather than contribute to the swelling coffers of a global corporation.
Have you ever considered using your Christmas shopping to make a statement? Do you reckon it is unjustified to do so?
