So on the eve of me finally launching my small business, it’s felt like a long time coming, I’m writing my first ever blog post about shopping small. Now forgive me, but as of yet I haven’t been able to change all my shopping habits and I’m a working mum of two so convenience is still high up there on the list of priorities. That said though, I have changed a lot of my habits and altered my perspective on shopping. Heard the phrase “buy cheap, buy twice”? I was guilty of that a lot. Plenty of times I’d come home with piles of clothes because they were cheap even though I didn’t need them or if I did, why did I need to buy three of the things? Also I always struggled with the quality of the clothes, especially after washing a few times. Don’t get me wrong basics, nursery wear and essentials I’m off to the nearest supermarket but for other things I’ve turned to shopping small. Not only do I now own a lot less clothes for my children (hello space in drawers!) I have high quality, unique, handmade pieces.
Entering the world of Instagram really highlighted the amazing independent shops out there striving to earn a living by demonstrating their talents and making high quality, unique items. It’s the passion that really got me, the same passion that I have for making my own handmade keepsakes. Now it’s not the first time I’ve shopped small but somehow seeing these brands on Instagram really shows off the personal aspect of a small business. You can interact with them, see all the work in process behind the scenes type stuff and many show you their family life- the same family they are trying to support by running their own small business. It’s totally inspired, encouraged and motivated me to carry on shopping small; helping someone put dinner on the table and being able to support their dream is rewarding and long may it continue!
I’m definitely not saying buy small all the time, it’s hard, it isn’t always convenient and it’s not as easy on the purse strings but it feels good when you do.
Stepping away from the safety net of a regular income and stepping into the world of self-employment is pretty scary but I tell you if I start seeing orders come in for my keepsake jewellery, I will be amazed, thankful, overwhelmed and oh ok then there might be a few happy dances!
Work hard, shop small, dream big. ❤️