Online shopping and big box stores have made life a tad bit easier for sure! From the ease of ordering last minute gifts to groceries for the week, we’ve all tapped into the conveniences offered by large businesses. I mean, as a busy mama on the go, sometimes convenience wins for sure!
However, there are so many times we overlook our local gems right in our backyard! Our world has become so global and ordering has become so easy, these smaller shops are often forgotten about. The consequences in our community, can be more harmful than we even thought.
If you’re looking to make a small change, we’ve got all the details on how to make shopping local a regular part of your routine.
Shop Small vs. Shop Local
“Shop small” and “shop local,” are two often repeated phrases throughout the small business community. And while they sound similar, they refer to different things.
Shopping small means buying from small independent businesses. They do not necessarily have to be a part of your community or even your country. For example, when you buy earrings from a seller on Etsy, you are shopping small but not necessarily local. What qualifies as a small business? The official terms are vague, but generally, the business is operated by just a few people and has one central place of operations (i.e. no franchises, even if they are specific to your state).
Shopping local, on the other hand, refers to businesses within your community. It can be hugely beneficial to support both small businesses and local businesses – and often, they can be one and the same – but it’s important to recognize that they are two different things. Depending on your sustainability values, you might favor one over the other.
An Ecological Impact
Buying goods made overseas, which are shipped to wherever you livemeans that when you purchase something, you are increasing your carbon footprint, by not even leaving your home..
These goods are flown across the ocean then delivered across the country to your doorstep. Anyone who has followed the tracking on a package knows that it is not always a linear process. There can be a lot of fossil fuels burned perpackage.
When you shop locally, you can significantly reduce your carbon footprint while making a small ecological impact.
A People-First Mentality
One of the best parts about buying locally is that you can see firsthand how your purchase is affecting the sellers. When you buy from a local business owner, every dollar that you spend goes directly into supporting their business and their family. This support leads to a more financially independent, healthy community.
Additionally, many small businesses carry products and goods created by the owners themselves. When you purchase from them, you can feel good knowing that you are supporting their work as well!
Higher Quality
Many small, local businesses value an emphasis on stocking fair trade products. They often have a relationship with the creators of products they stock and can give you expert guidance when it comes to finding exactly what you need. It’s also much easier to ask questions about your items and get answers directly from the source!
It’s Economically Conscious
Items that are made with care and attention to detail last longer than cheaply made items, making it a better investment in the long run. Additionally, by purchasing locally, you are putting your money back into the community. Sales taxes from your purchases are a vital part of keeping your local community thriving and in business.
How Do I Start?
Here at The Cool Mom Co, we are all about progress over perfection. If you are just getting introduced to the benefits of buying local, we recommend you take it one step at a time. The next time you need a gift or looking for a special little something, stop in a local boutique or shop. You never know what gem you may find!
What is your favorite local business? Shout them out in the comments below!