It has made me think about our consumerism. This has been in the background, bumbling around when thinking about buying things. It started back when I decided to get rid of most of my wardrobe, for the simple fact that I didn’t wear what was there. And, how I feel more and more that we should be creating memories and experiences, rather than having more material possessions.
So, in terms of Christmas, where does that leave us? Well, my plan for presents is to try and use more independent shops for gifting, rather than using the big shops. Some presents will come from there, but I like to think that I’m making some people smile, those mums who are running their own business from home, for example. I have already ordered a couple of things which I’m looking forward to giving 🙂
There was a picture shared on Instagram recently, which I was going to post here but now can’t find, about how instead of lining a CEO’s pockets of a multi-million pound company, buy from someone who would do a happy dance in their kitchen when they receive your order. I’m para-phrasing that, but it was something like that. It really made me think.
Just how important supporting individuals who are taking a chance; who are doing something that might be tough, but they love, to make themselves a better life. Maybe they want to stay at home with their children so work around them. Or they took a risk and it’s paying off. I went to a Christmas market at the weekend and bought some Christmas cards and a print from a designer; yes they were more expensive then your generic Christmas card but they are carefully designed and I’m supporting someone do something that they love.
It might mean that we buy less this year. That our boys don’t get as many toys as is perceived the “norm” but you know what? That’s ok. They have more than enough as it is, plus I don’t want them to expect piles of presents every year for their birthday and Christmas.
I keep thinking about the quality of the things we are buying; definitely heading towards the quality over quantity. I’d love to have more wooden toys rather than plastic ones, things that will last longer and one day might be passed down to another generation. I want to have less things in our home altogether. Instead, I want to create memories, lasting things that have more meaning than more toys.
So, when you’re planning your Christmas budget, and thinking about what you are getting that special someone, perhaps you could look at your local high street. A little independent shop that relies on people walking through the door and spending their hard earned cash there. Or a small business on Instagram, that relies on the orders so that they can stay at home 🙂 it all helps and we can all be a part of it! Also, is it wrong to want to buy things for self when you are Christmas shopping? Asking for a friend…
Have you got any independent shops you would recommend? I’d love to discover some more!
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Some interesting and thought provoking ideas here around supporting local and / or smaller businesses .. coupled with consuming less in a more measured and targeted way.
Perhaps your Facebook bargains page could support this ethos by removing all the affiliate links to Amazon and other large multinational companies; instead promote the small start ups etc that you talk about in this post and help them to become a success?
We have been thinking recently about what direction to take our Facebook bargains page; definitely intend to post links to smaller business and independents.
I’m using local craft shops and knitting presents for Christmas. Also buying material and making lavender filled hearts with home grown lavender. It keeps me busy! Totally agree about the amount of things we buy that aren’t really necessary. Your idea of keeping a daily spending record is good too because it makes you think twice before you spend.
There is a brilliant independent Toy Shop in the Southend-on-Sea area called Argosy Toys. they posted an image about shopping local at this link on FB https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/46522684_2365379526823909_9018366590617387008_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&_nc_ht=scontent-lhr3-1.xx&oh=efbe369709c9340ab2467a198d75d095&oe=5C64EE4A
Love that!
I cannot comment on what is for sale in England. My children are grown now and I used to be astonished at what people will do for Christmas. I agree with wooden toys, quality over quantity and now that mine are older books and experiences.
I keep looking at books too – thanks for the reminder!
Totally agree with this: “creating memories and experiences, rather than having more material possessions”. Thanks for sharing this lovely article!
Wow – really appreciated this article! I love challenging my mind and thinking of things in a different perspective, so thank you for giving me a new outlook. I am all about giving – so I am excited to give this a go this year 🙂
Gifting is less about the gift and more about the action and intent.
Great think piece.
On a side note, Amex have a promotion where if you spend £10 at a local retailer you get £5 cashback – not bad eh?
Have you heard of Appletree and Avalon? They’re a small online only independent, but they support other small businesses as well as giving back to the planet. I’m not sure how old your children are but they sell some really cute wooden jigsaws