— buy from local makers.
Try to buy it at a store in town, or ask if they have a pick-up option. As for me: I always offer a pick-up option. This saves shipping (CO2 emission), but also excessive packaging.
— check out Christmas events near you.
There's always nice Christmas markets around town. You can meet lovely creators, selling handmade items. This makes a gift so much more valuable: meeting the maker, and seeing all the love that's been put into a product. As for me, I'm joining Bazaar du Sud again, right before Christmas. The upcoming edition will be at 'de Ruimte', at Sphinx, Maastricht: on 9-10-11 December. Get your reminders on Instagram, or check out the information below!
— check out the footprint of a business.
Any business that's conscious about their footprint, would love to tell you all about the steps they're making in being as eco-friendly as they can. As for me, I try to get an eco-friendly option for everything that revolves around the products. I make sure everything is either reusable, recyclable or compostable.
— think your gifts through.
For me, the most special thing about gifts, is that one's taking their time to think about others. What do they like, what could they really use? Don't buy random stuff, hoping they'll like it, because you like it. Personally, I take notes all year long. If my loved ones drop any hint of something they might like, or would want to use, I write it down. This makes gifting so thoughtful and personal.
— less is more.
The most obvious thing is: don't buy too much. I don't think you ever heard any business owner say this, but this is the start of the revolution. Be conscious about what you buy. I prefer owning 1 good product, over 5 mediocre products. Less is more!
I would love to hear from you, about how you're changing your pattern for the better.
