A Guide To Supporting Small Businesses This Holiday Season

Shopping local and supporting small businesses are more important than ever this year.

This holiday season looks a little different. Many are shopping with the intention of selecting thoughtful, personal gifts that are well-made, hand-crafted, and/or sustainably-made items from real people.

Find one-of-a-kind, personalized items you can’t find anywhere else while feeling good about supporting local entrepreneurs.

 

Trend #1: Homespun Holiday Decor 

This winter, “cabincore” is the new “cottagecore” (the nostalgia-inspired movement that’s all about bringing back pastoral aesthetics and activities). We’re seeing shoppers opting for holiday decor that’s reminiscent of a time before technology and filled with simpler pleasures like baking, crafting, and board games. Puzzles and indoor games have gained momentum throughout the year – we’ve seen a 50% increase in searches for family games (compared to the same time last year).

Swipe through the gallery below to find the perfect gift and where to buy them!

Birch Bark Star Garland, $35

 

Trend #2: Long Distance Gifting

With many unable to see family and friends in person, Etsy sellers are helping shoppers let their loved ones know they are thinking of them from a distance. One extra-special gifting trend taking hold is care packages – with searches for care packages up 235% (in the past 3 months, compared to the same time last year).

Swipe through the gallery below to find the perfect gift and where to buy them!

Personalized Wooden Christmas Cards, $35

 

Trend #3: Intimate Gatherings

Gratitude and togetherness will be top of mind as people find new ways to gather. Many will celebrate in smaller groups than normal. But even if they’re keeping it simple, they’ll be looking for entertaining items and hostess gifts that make modest celebrations feel special.

New takes on tradition means many people may be hosting the holidays for the first time, and first-time hosts will be looking for staples and handy kits for DIY table decor.

Swipe through the gallery below to find the perfect gift and where to buy them!

DIY Cocktail Kit, $43