Why Buy Handmade?
Why buy handmade? For starters, when you support small businesses that make their items by hand, you are supporting a community of people who love what they do, who give back, and who want to connect with you.
We, in the community, are known as artisans, artists, makers, crafters, and anything else you might think of that means “people who make products with their own hands, and with lots of love”.
People who make handmade items are doing it because they are passionate about creating something that is unique. Most of the time the items are made in small batches, and a lot of care is put into each one. We don’t mass-produce items, so each one is just a little different and that makes it special.
Being able to interact with makers directly via social media, and on our websites, is such a wonderful thing. If you have a comment or a suggestion, we’d like to hear it!
Many artisans welcome the opportunity to create something specific for your needs. You can request a variation in the product if you don’t see what you are looking for or have an idea for something a little different. For example, we are open to trying new scents for our candles, or creating a gift basket for you. We are happy to collaborate with you, just ask!
Artisans love to be able to provide a special touch that you can’t get from a big retailer. Sometimes makers will offer to hand-write gift tags if you are sending a gift, or use a specific color of tissue paper or packing material if they are able to get it for you.
I love it when I receive a handwritten thank you note from a maker when I order something online. One of my favorite makers, Sans Skincare, (you should check them out, they have wonderful products!) always includes this in my orders (and we do too, for our customers). It’s these little personal touches that help us feel connected.
It is a win-win for everyone (I hope that doesn’t sound too corporate, I really don’t like corporate speak). You are getting beautiful handmade goods that you love, while enabling an artist to continue following their creative dreams that they love! One of my favorite sayings is “do what you love, love what you do”. I wrote a blog post about it here.
In a lot of instances you are participating in being kind to the environment. It is common to use recycled or recyclable materials when making handmade items. Our containers can be re-purposed in a lot of cute and functional ways and are also recyclable!
A lot of artisans who make handmade items give back to their communities in some way. As you know, we donate a portion of the sale of each of our candles to animal charities. It is a good way to give back while getting a wonderful gift for you or someone you love.
If you are looking for unique, quality, “handmade with love” items, you can check out your local craft fairs. There is also a great resource through Indie Business Network (a great organization I belong to) called “Shop Indie Business”, where you can search for makers by product, location and category. There are so many great makers who make fantastic products, I’m sure you will find something you love!
What are some reasons you like to buy handmade items?
Jamie