and it's so very important we all help them.
of course, buying amazing art and handmade things on the internet to support your favorite artists is important, but so are these local gems that are open day in, day out, all year long in cities and small towns all around the country (and the world!). i really can't emphasize enough how it's so crucial that we support our favorite independent boutiques. shop owners are some of the hardest working people in this creative economy - they're hardly your typical middle man. they curate, market, promote, merchandise, design displays, and provide so much support to the community of makers. they're the best thing ever.
want to help? here are a few incredibly simple things you can do:
1) shop. you don't have to spend a lot - just remember that every dollar you spend at the boutique down the street instead of at target for your sister's birthday or your friend's housewarming or something fun to wear with that new dress to dinner tomorrow or even just a greeting card makes such a difference.
each dollar you spend will be split between your local shop owner, who undoubtedly will spend their portion in turn supporting other local businesses. the other portion of your purchase goes back to the artist, who also supports a local economy. none of your money goes to anyone faceless executives, to morally questionable political lobbying, or to outsourced, unpaid workers. when every dollar counts, it's more important than ever to really consider where your money is going.
2) encourage friends and family to shop at local boutiques and galleries, too. make wish lists of things you've been spying on in shop windows instead of on giant, online discounters for holidays and special occasions. i guarantee that anything you receive will feel 10 times more special than if it had come from some faceless online box store.
3) mark your calendars! most amazing local boutiques throw really excellent events every so often. show them how important their shop is to you by making a point of attending these classes, demonstrations, trunk shows and more. you may even have a super, super good time (or learn something!)
3) pass it on. retweeting, reposting or sending this link to friends is the next best thing you can do. spread the word and do your part!
xo,
sara girlscantell.
