As we gear up for that most hallowed of shopping seasons, I thought it might be a good time to share some alternatives to businesses like Amazon, which are terrible for the environment, communities, and workers.
Local Independent Bookstores – people love a gift certificate to their favourite book shop but local bookstores also often have really good recommendations from their staff. Big book chains usually only “recommend” books that they are trying to push at a particular time of year.
Local Cafes, Bakeries, and Specialty Grocery Stores – I’m a big fan of gifts that can be consumed on the spot, particularly if they’re sweet. Fresh baked goods, sweets, and items like local jams, honeys, hot sauces, and other condiments are always a nice way for someone to get a taste of something local
Local Coffee Roasters – At this point you’ll probably guess that I live in Vancouver, which has a plethora of local coffee roasters and cafes that carry their own coffee. If you have someone in your life that doesn’t like getting coffee as a gift, first disown them, then consider the same option but with teas.
Pottery Studios – a lot of pottery studios that offer classes will also have events or small store fronts that sell student pottery. Items are always one of a kind and a much better deal than dropping money at a big houseware store.
Of course there’s always the option to NOT do gifts but many local artisans and businesses really rely on the bulk of their sales coming in December. Another great option if gifts of stuff aren’t your thing, is to consider a recurring monthly donation to a great cause in someone’s name,
What else would you add to this list?
Last Ditch 
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