This is a really busy season for all of us, with holidays and constant shopping for people we love! So it’s so easy to shop at the big commerce companies for a quick shopping trip in person. Or a quick online purchase on a website.
But for this holiday season, if you are looking to make a difference in small businesses while also giving to your loved ones, consider shopping at these five small businesses. They care about their customers and the community they support. I will also throw in some fun facts in for each business and why they mean a lot to me!
Kent East Hill Nursery
Our first shop is Kent East Hill Nursery, a nursery of plants ranging from trees and perennials to houseplants and decor. They are a caring, family owned business located in Kent, Washington with 5 years of experience providing plants for the community. You can shop online or in the store located just south of Seattle! https://kenteasthillnursery.shop/
Fun fact: I source all of my succulents from here!
WEND Jewelry
One of my favorite jewelry makers in our community in Washington is the business owned by Wendy Woldenberg, WEND Jewelry. Her jewelry are unique, sustainable pieces that speak to your life journey by imitating textures in nature. Every piece is handmade and made with care in her workshop. Visit her online shop to fulfill your online shopping needs at https://wendjewelry.com/ or visit her store in west Seattle!
Fun fact: I hosted my first in-person terrarium workshop post-pandemic here!
Strawaii
A unique business started in Hawaii that redesigned sustainable, reusable straws is Strawaii. They created straws on the principle of Malama Honua, which in Hawaiian means “to protect everything that makes up our world: land, oceans, living beings, our cultures, and our communities.” They are made with organic bamboo that gives back to our environment and makes this world a better place. Learn more and support them through their business at https://strawaii.com/
Fun fact: I met them through Urban Craft Uprising’s Summer Fest show, and can’t wait to see more of their presence in the PNW!
Cocoa Loves Grey
Cocoa Loves Grey is owned by an amazing local business owner in Washington who loves fun and sparkly things, Nellys. She creates beautiful accessories that inspire joy in every person and encourages everyone who buys her earrings, hats, shirts, and more to feel like the beautiful person they are! Visit her website to purchase some of her beautiful creations today. https://cocoalovesgrey.com/
Fun fact: Nellys and I first connected at one of The Hatchery’s markets. She has become such a dear friend to me and I always go to her for advice and to bounce around ideas. Plus we are both fur baby mamas and love pineapples!
Apothalinea
Last but not least, if you’re into candles and love supporting a great cause, this one’s for you! Apothalinea was created by Ciel to be honest and inspire light with every candle. Her candles not only create an amazing, beautiful aroma to any space, they give 10% of the proceeds to a great cause! If you are interested in purchasing one of her great candles this holiday season, visit her Etsy store to shop: https://www.etsy.com/shop/apothalinea/
Fun fact: When Ciel and I first met, we both had the same thought of, “ugh, another candle vendor.” Fast forward to now, she has become one of my dearest friends and I’m so proud of how her business has evolved!
While I would be really grateful for you to support small at the end of the year, my hope is that everyone supports small businesses all year round and makes a change to make a difference in their community.
Mahalo!