Feature Image by OmiWoods
With so many people out of work, 2020 is a crucial year to shop from small businesses. Nalini Arora, a paper goods designer and the owner of LAshoegirl on Etsy says, “Many self-employed business owners have been impacted [negatively] by the pandemic, and [supporting small businesses] is extremely important to help these entrepreneurs,” she says.
Arora explains that self-employment is especially meaningful for creatives because owning their own shops means they get to monetize their talents for themselves. Perhaps, most importantly, by supporting small business owners this holiday season, you will be impacting actual individuals and their families in a true holiday spirit.
“Shopping small gives people hope,” Arora says. “That is something we all need right now; this holiday season and in the future.”
Etsy is one of our favorite online resources for discovering and supporting indie businesses founded by creatives. As you’re checking your holiday shopping lists, consider the options below.
laSHOEGIRL Shop
Snag your wrapping paper and holiday cards for your fashion-loving friends and family members. The designs are made from founder Nalina Arora’s hand-drawn fashion illustrations, and feature the perfect dose of holiday cheer to grace the bottom of your tree. Gift-wrapping has never been so chic!
OmiWoods
Shop jewelry designs from the Etsy Design Awards-winning, top-rated jewelry store. Our favorites pieces feature layered coins, shells, and chains galore, but you can also score earrings and pendants. This lovely double coin pendant is planted firmly on our wish lists this year.
Uncommon Art Decor
This shop offers everything from Christmas-themed agate coasters to geode trays and cordless charger pads — all made using gorgeous natural stones. You can even find a wine cork embellished with a geode crystal! All in all, these make excellent gifts for earthy girls with love for all that sparkles.
Darkness to Wellness
Pick out some reiki-infused manifestation candles made from soy wax, herbs, and organic essential oils to help attract your deepest desires into your life! Not only do these make fantastic and functional gifts, but you also might want to gift one to yourself.
Patrina’s Paperie
Never underestimate the importance of a handwritten “thank you note” in a year like 2020 when everyone can use a little sentimental boost. From personalized stationery to gold foil prints and stickers, this Colorado-based paperie has got the goods. We think that a framed, gold foil print of your giftee’s favorite city’s skyline could help keep the wanderlust at bay.
Elle Brands Handmade Crystal Jewelry
This shop features a variety of handmade crystal jewelry. This necklace features a slice of citrine, the gemstone associated with creativity, abundance, prosperity, and joy. The earrings and stackable bracelets, which are made in Ohio, are some of our favorites.
Drizzle Honey
Nab some raw, superfood honey — available in scrumptiously holiday-ready flavors that will fit right in a stocking. Add them to your favorite tea blend, or drizzle them on top of a piece of toast. If your giftee happens to be a fan of Queer Eye, they also did a collaboration with Tan France.
Loving Thyself Rocks
If you’re on the hunt for some crystals, this is one of Etsy’s top-rated sellers for gemstones, sound bowls, and tools for smoke cleansing (like sage or Palo Santo). The Florida-based sellers offer an impressive selection that never fails to impress.
Sheree Brand Paper Co.
We adore the original artwork and prints by Sheree. You can even pick out holiday ornaments featuring her art if you’d like your Christmas tree to rep some local, Maryland-based talent that exudes the theme of sisterhood.
Modest Maverick Shop
It’s officially time to get cozy, and these versatile, wool goods are giving us all the Southwestern feels. The top-rated Canadian shop also sells upcycled pillowcases, baby blankets, ponchos, and throws, along with festive stockings to give your holiday hearth some distinctly rustic vibes.
xx, The FabFitFun Team
