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5 Reasons Why Shopping Small Is More Important Than Ever In 2023

Flatlay of gorgeous personalised gift ideas from Sketch By Sam

We hear the phrase ‘shop small’ being thrown around all the time, so I wanted to dive in and tell you all about why I think it’s so important to shop with independent businesses, now more than ever!

The last few years have been turbulent to say the least and with the cost-of-living crisis dominating everyone’s thoughts at the moment, people are being more cautious than ever with those precious pennies and rightly so. Sadly, the start of 2023 has seen the closure of so many small independent brands due to the prices of pretty much everything going through the roof which is why 2023 is the year that we need to support our local communities and shop small.

Whether you’re browsing your local highstreets, scrolling through an online maker’s market, or buying from your favourite indie brand on social media, there are many benefits to shopping with small independent businesses.

1. Top notch customer service

It goes without saying that when you shop with a small business you generally receive a much better level of customer service. The shopping experience is more personal, and they genuinely care about your order, opinions, and feedback. Small business owners are passionate about their products and are often happy to go that extra mile to ensure that you’re a highly satisfied customer.

2. You’re helping to keep someone’s dream alive!

Yep, it’s a cheesy one but it’s 100% percent true. By choosing to do your online shopping with indie brands instead of Amazon you are literally supporting someone’s dream. That little happy dance that people talk about when small business owners receive an order, well that actually happens and we’re so grateful when you decide to spend your hard-earned money with us!

3. Picture perfect packaging

Every order that leaves my studio is beautifully packaged. There is nothing like that wow factor when you open a package that you’ve been eagerly awaiting, and we aim to put the excitement back into receiving a parcel. Most handmade gift brands will spend a lot of time packing your order before it is posted to you and at Sketch By Sam, this is high up on our priority list… we’re talking branded tissue paper, colourful stickers, postcards with discount codes, we make sure everything looks perfect.

Product Packaging Example from Sketch By Sam

4. Discover unique gifts

It’s a fact that independent makers supply the most unique and unusual gifts and there’s no better feeling than scrolling through Instagram or Pinterest and stumbling upon a brand that you absolutely adore or better yet, you know will make a perfect gift for that special someone! Get that feel-good feeling from supporting small businesses and be confident that you’ve bagged a one-of-a-kind gift for your friend.

5. See where your order is made

Most small business rely heavily on social media for marketing and by doing that they give you a unique insight into their lives as a creative maker. With the likes of TikTok and Instagram prioritising video content at the moment, it means we get to see behind the scenes footage of orders being designed, made, and packed, how cool is that? You can see just how much love and effort goes into making each and every order, giving you peace of mind that your money has been well spent.

As a small business owner myself, I like to practice what I preach and try to spend money locally in my own area. I’m based in Halifax, West Yorkshire and one of my favourite places to shop for gifts is The Piece Hall. The Piece Hall is a gorgeous, listed building in the centre of Halifax which over the last few years has undergone major renovations. It started as a Georgian cloth hall in 1779 and is now home to a plethora of independent shops, cafes and even hosts events such as makers markets and concerts. Here are my favourite independent shops that you can find in The Piece Hall, Halifax:

Hudson Belle

Manjo Home

Jewella

The Book Corner

Tips on how you can support indie businesses without spending a fortune!

Every time I find myself in a cute independent shop, I try and make a point of buying a birthday card. Let’s face it, you always need them and you’re only going to give that money to one of the retails giants anyway. This way you’ll build up a stash of gorgeous cards, so you’re always prepared for an upcoming birthday or occasion and you’re supporting a small business at the same time, it’s a win, win!
If you’ve bought a gift for someone from an independent maker, wrap it up with one of their business cards or flyers inside so you can spread the word and tell everyone how awesome their brand is. Word of mouth is a powerful tool and we small businesses love it when you recommend us to friends, family, neighbours, or anyone who will listen to you!
This one is completely free and is always appreciated by us small business owners. Give your favourite indie business owners a like, share or comment on social media. It doesn’t cost you a penny but it’s certainly nice to know that there’s people out there cheering us on and showing their support.
If you’ve made a purchase from an independent business recently, please leave them a 5-star review! This is so helpful and gives other buyers the confidence to make a purchase. Plus, it’s always nice to hear positive feedback.

Here's some of my favourite go-to independent brands when I'm looking for the perfect gift for someone or if I fancy treating myself!

Lauren Aston Design Studio

Hope you like some of my recommendations and if you do, I’m sure they’d all love a follow on socials! By supporting indie businesses you’re not only helping small businesses flourish, but you’re also enabling your favourite brands and independent shops to continue doing what they love.

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