6 Ways to Shop More Ethically During the Holidays
The holidays are probably the most difficult time to shop (and live) ethically. Between the gifts and the parties, eating out and decorating, it may seem impossible. For some of us, there is a lot of pressure and expectations surrounding gifts. We don’t want to disappoint our loved ones with gifts that they don’t want or like. Maybe some of our friends and family think that ethical fashion, beauty, and gifts are a little “crunchy” or not as beautiful in some way. Maybe they don’t understand the value of shopping ethically. Or maybe they are kids, and just want the newest, coolest toy (and who can blame them!).
But, there are ways to shop more ethically during the holidays that won’t disappoint your loved ones (even the kiddos on your list). Use the same principles that you use when you shop for yourself the rest of the year, plan a little, and get creative. It may take a little longer than it has in the past, but you should be able to get your holiday shopping done without compromising you values (or your style!). And that’s what we’re all about at F:S.
Here are 6 ways to shop more ethically this holiday season:
1. Go with a list.
We have all been there. I remember the year I went to Bloomingdale’s to pick up a coffee maker for my stepdad, a lip gloss for a friend, and a sweater for my sister. I left with all of those things plus a pair of knee-high boots, some pointy-toed flats, and a cashmere sweater, all for me. Yikes! Tough on my wallet and the environment.
If you go with a list and stick with it, you are less likely to impulse shop. If you see something for yourself, revisit it later or ask yourself these questions.
2. Get an experience.
This might be my favorite way to gift ethically. Give the gift of time and an outing. Take a loved one to a concert, go out of town with your S.O. or girlfriends, take your nieces and nephews for a day out with their favorite aunt. Anything that isn’t “stuff.”
For those on your list that have it all or are especially hard to shop for, experiences can be such great gifts. Some of my favorite gifts have been massages or spa days. A few years ago, my husband (then boyfriend) spent the weekend in Palm Springs as our Christmas gift to each other. We had a great time, and the memories are much better than any sweater or pair of slippers.
3. Choose high quality.
Find gifts that will last forever. Find gifts from companies that have lifetime warranties, high quality classic jewelry (doesn’t have to be expensive), or personal items that can be repaired rather than replaced.
4. Ask.
One of the worst parts of the holiday gift giving season is how many well-intentioned gifts end up never getting used or worn. Think about your own home. How many things are you holding onto because someone special gave it to you, but it doesn’t really have a place in your life?
One of the best ways to prevent this is to ask what the recipient needs or wants. This is especially useful for kids. Ask their parents what they want or need, their preferences, and their sizes. You won’t ruin the surprise, and will give something that is both useful and loved and appreciated by the parents.
And don’t forget to include a gift receipt!
5. Go antique or vintage.
Ok, during the holidays, it feels a little iffy to give someone something secondhand. But antique? Yes! Vintage? Definitely! If you know someone’s personal style well, why not gift something vintage or antique. A record, a small vintage rug, a beautiful and interesting vase, even a vintage bag are all great gifts (hint, hint!). (links). They also show how much you care. You took the time to hunt down the perfect gift rather than just running to the mall.
6. Consider plants.
Every year, my father-in-law brings over a beautiful poinsettia (and every year, I kill it pretty quickly, ugh!). But, I love it in the short period of time we have it. My business partner has gifted us a huge basil plant, also short-lived, but well-loved and well-used. And my best friends, knowing I am not that great at plants gifted me a tiny succulent with the words “don’t die” on the vase. It did.
While I may not be the best plant person (getting better, I promise), I LOVE all of these gifts. And for those of your friends that aren’t such a black thumb, there is no better way to bring a pop of color and a dose of happiness into their lives than the gift of a plant. Plus, you’ll help them cleanup their home’s environment and what better gift than that?
Shopping for the holidays tends to be stressful and adding additional criteria of “is it ethical?” can seem daunting. But, with a little creativity, some patience, and a bit of planning, it can be done. If you are still having a tough time figuring out the perfect gift, take a look at a few of my gift guides.
What are some of the ways you shop more ethically during the holidays? Any favorite shops or experiences that you’ve given or received?
