How to Support Local During the 2020 Holiday Season

Hallowe'en is over and the next "big event" in Canada is the Holiday Season: Christmas, Hanukkah, and so many other wonderful family-infused celebrations that even 2020 can't take away entirely, if only virtually.

Many have already started (or finished) thinking about gift giving, and finding that perfect and unique item for someone special on their list.

For us makers, we've been busy making, hoping to bring you exactly what it is your looking for - something you would be as excited to receive as you are to gift! For many like me, we make because we love what we make. I mean we LOVE what we make. The year has been tough on us, as it has for so many others. Major shows have been cancelled, Farmer's markets have reduced space, retailers have had to close, and the price of supplies have risen, while the availability has dropped. Not a complaint, just a picture of reality... fortunately, for me, making the things I love, with the fabric I love, and the local supplies from people I now consider friends (Hi Jason, my beeswax buddy!) keeps my spirits up and my outlook hopeful.

So here's your reminder to Shop Local as much as you can. 

But it's not just the SHOPPING that is needed from you. There are so many other things you can do to support your friends, neighbours and local artisans this holiday season that requires no money at all.

Here are a few ideas:

1. Word of mouth - still #1 as far as cashless-support goes. If you love a product, or just a person, tell your friends about them over coffee. Most of the time all we have to do is make a recommendation during a conversation we're already having.
2. Follow them online. Increased page likes lend to the credibility of the business. You don't have to engage them (but see #3 before you decide not to) to be supportive.
3. Engage on social media. Liking a post is great, adding a comment is awesome, sharing content makes me want to kiss you... but sorry, covid. Rain check. ;) When you follow a page that you wish to support with engagement, be sure to set their content as "see first" so that you don't have to go looking for their posts. 
4. Leave a review. On social media, on Google or on the Website. I prefer mine on Google as this is where a lot of my personal website traffic comes... the more reviews we see, the better we feel about investing in a product. Amirite?
5. CHEER US ON! Guys, being a self-employed maker can be super lonely. I personally have always looked forward to my markets where I can chat with y'all about periods and our hate-on for plastics... this year has provided very little of that. So, if you see me out and about, say HI! Talk to me about my business.
   Visit the booth of a local maker that you know at one of the few markets available to have a look at new products we cooked up while home this year. Don't assume same-ol-same-ol. 

Remember that giving us your money isn't the only way to help us out during the holidays, and all year long. Small actions, even "just" a LIKE, is so helpful and appreciative.