I’m excited to be sharing my first gift guide of 2020 with you! It seems very fitting that this would be for small businesses! I think it’s important to support small businesses year-round but especially during the holidays. Typically we are all guilty of turning to Amazon because it’s quick and easy and usually the price is right. But aren’t there so many times you wish you could find the perfectly fitting, unique gift for someone? Small businesses are great for that! The easiest way to find a small business to support is to search for what you’re looking for on Etsy.
This post contains affiliate links.
I used to have an Etsy shop myself and hope to again someday. I love hand crafting my own designs and the satisfaction that comes from someone else enjoying my work is unmatched. But I have also accepted the fact that that just doesn’t fit in my life at the moment, and I know the day that it can will be here before I know it. I digress - the point is that as a former Etsy shop owner myself, I can tell you every single order brings a huge smile and happy dance to the creator!
At the beginning of this year I started working on my own small business, an accessory boutique, Spark Hope. I created Spark Hope in honor of my dad, and donate a portion of every sale to cancer research. Unfortunately I ended up launching my business right on the brink of a global pandemic - not exactly the best timing, but looking back, waiting wouldn’t have helped because here we are 8 months later still in pandemic mode.
But if cute earrings and hair accessories are on your list this year, it would mean the world to me if you’d consider shopping Spark Hope! Right now through 11/29 everything is on major sale! Every item is $10 or less - our biggest sale ever! Plus free shipping if you spend $49+.
The small businesses I’m featuring here today don’t all fit into any specific category, they are just businesses that I have supported and loved! I hope you find at least one that you can support this holiday season. I know the owners for several of these businesses and they’re all wonderful women!
Petite and Crafty
Cute and hilarious mugs and apparel designed by Lauren, who I knew from our college dance team. I think her designs are so adorable and I know she has a lot of new products in the works as well so make sure to follow her Instagram (@petiteandcrafty) for updates! She is having 20% off for Black Friday and you can use code KATIE10 for 10% off 2+ mugs. Click here to shop.
Naked Panda Designs
Uniquely designed baby carriers. I met Amanda at a baby expo earlier this year and we really clicked! She is a mom and military wife and created this business all on her own. Since getting one of her baby carriers I have absolutely fallen in love with it. Both my husband and I wear it and agree it is the most comfortable carrier we’ve ever tried (I have at least 5 different brands)! If you or a loved one are in need of a baby carrier I cannot recommend Naked Panda enough! Follow her Instagram @nakedpandadesigns to see all the unique features of her carriers.
Bowtism
Adorable and affordable children’s clothing. I think I discovered Bowtism through an Instagram ad! Owned by a mama, a portion of proceeds go towards Autism research. I love supporting brands that give back! I can’t believe how affordable the outfits are, they all come with a free bow, and I love them because they’re so unique. The dresses I got for Avery are her absolute favorites! This summer she wore them exclusively for about two straight weeks!
The Ollie World
The best swaddle ever! Another mama owned business! The Ollie Swaddle is the best swaddle around. I used them for both Avery and Georgia and it’s just the easiest swaddle to put on and deal with, most comfortable for baby, and it grows with them - no need to keep buying bigger sizes as baby grows. Click here for 10% off your purchase.
Lovevery
Age appropriate developmental toys. I have been working with Lovevery since having Georgia and I can tell you their toys stand out from the crowd. They have been perfect for her in terms of how interested she is in them based on the age and the quality is just so good. They are a subscription box but you can also purchase individual boxes as well as the other toys they offer like the play gym which we have and are obsessed with too! This summer they will be coming out with 3 year old boxes (right now they only go through age 2, up to 35 months) and I hope to get those for Avery because I know how much research and science they put into their toys. For Black Friday this year you can save $30 on the Play Gym when you prepay for a Play Kits Subscription with code BONUSCUDDLES through 11/29. You also save 10% on Play Kits when you prepay! Click here to shop.
My Darling Diary
One of my favorite Instagram accounts. I followed Jessi when she was a fashion blogger and have loved watching her shift focus and grow My Darling Diary. It is a faith focused account that I always find so encouraging and uplifting. She now sells the sweetest apparel and accessories, if you’re looking for something cozy to wear this season definitely check out her Instagram. Even if you’re not in the market to buy you can still support by following along on Instagram (@my_darling_diary), trust me you will not regret it for a second.
Keiki Co
Luxury blankets and robes. I recently worked with Keiki Co for an Instagram post and love the brand. I’m dying to try one of their throws - they look absolutely dreamy! I can tell you from first hand experience that their robes are so so soft! And they come in sizes for the whole family. A woman owned and operated business with their products made in the USA - way to go! 30% off the entire site for Black Friday!
And there you have it folks! I'd love to know your favorite small businesses in the comments below! Whether you find something I've shared here that you love or not, I hope you find at least one small business to support this holiday season. When you shop small, someone does a happy dance :)
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