Create maximum impact with your seasonal gifting by thinking carefully about the choices you are making
As the festive season is now upon us, it's more important than ever to choose wisely and make your money count. Here are 5 questions to ask yourself before purchasing gifts for the important people in your life.
Will the gift be appreciated and treasured? Or will it be discarded after a short period of time creating more waste? Surely the goal is for a gift to be kept for years to come. As an example, my Aunty gave me a ceramic angel decoration when I was very young. To this day that is one of the most treasured gifts I have received in my lifetime. Every time I see it I think fondly of my Aunty. By the way - thoughtful gifts don't need to be expensive!
Who benefits from your purchase? As an example, when you purchase from small businesses you help to build connected and thriving communities, and provide more local jobs and opportunities.
What is the product made out of? Many cheap products contain ingredients that are toxic and dangerous. Ensure that you are not gifting products that pose a health and safety risk.
Where was the product made? Delve further into who made the product and the conditions the product was made in. If the retailer can't provide information on the origins of the product that should be a red flag.
What if you are unhappy with the quality of the product? How easy is it to receive a refund if you are dissatisfied with your purchase? Businesses producing high quality products are happy to put things right when needed - their reputation is important to them.
Additional thoughts to consider:
Shopping locally is an environmentally friendly choice - including less carbon footprint which is better for our environment
Local businesses give back to the community - just one of the ways they do this is by sponsoring charities, events and groups.
Picture a world where your choices are severely limited due to the demise of our local businesses. Imagine not being able to pop into your favourite shop as they have closed down. Physical shops also provide an experience for their customers and an opportunity for connection.
Are our purchases helping to encourage the continuation of valuable skills to be passed down to future generations?
Imagine the impact we can make if enough people thought carefully about their spending habits and selected gifts from ethical businesses that give back to our communities? By supporting local businesses this festive season know that you are positively contributing to our economy and helping to build thriving communities. When so much feels outside of our control this is an opportunity to collectively make a meaningful contribution.
“Never underestimate the power of a small group of committed people to change the world. In fact, it is the only thing that ever has.” ~ Margaret Mead.
