It’s that time of year again and we say it’s now officially OK to mention the ‘C’ word. Yes, Christmas is almost here and although it will be a bit different this year – and probably a lot quieter as we stick to our bubbles – it’ll still be a special time. So in the run-up to this year’s festive season, we think it’s a great time to support small and local businesses this Christmas.
Support small and buy local
Christmas can be a hectic or stressful time for a lot of people for different reasons. Even buying gifts has its moments, especially this year as last-minute shopping will probably be limited to buying online.
With many small businesses feeling the pinch thanks to COVID-19, by buying small, you could be making a massive difference to their livelihoods. We never forget that 3 Donkeys is a small business and we feel incredibly humbled to have a fantastic and loyal customer base, and we love to offer that personal service to each of them.
So here are a few ways to shop small, buy local, and give something back this Christmas. They can give you a personal service, they’re a lot easier to contact if you have any questions – and they’ll appreciate your support too.
Virtual Christmas markets
An annual tradition for many families, visiting a Christmas market sadly won’t be an option this year. But fear not. You can get in the festive spirit, by visiting the indie designers, makers, and sellers online instead.
Try Googling Christmas markets in your area and see what comes up – there’s bound to be a few nearby. It’s a great way to show your support and buy direct from the seller. There will often be local cafés and takeaways offering deliveries too, so you can make an evening of it.
Go handmade online
Whatever type of gift you’re looking for – or even if you don’t know what you’re looking for – there’s a whole range of independent and small creative businesses online all year. Offering something different and unique, there’s plenty of gifts to choose from, including homewares, jewellery, or art.
Many items on sale, including Christmas cards or crackers, can also be personalised for that extra special touch. So why not give the likes of Amazon a miss this year? Going online to sites like Etsy or Not On The High Street will open up a whole new world of buying small.
Local butchers and delis
We’re all partial to a traditional Christmas dinner with all the trimmings. But rather than ordering your turkey or beef joint online from the big supermarkets, take a look at your local butcher, deli, or farm shop for a change.
They’ll all often have a range of locally-sourced meat and fish, alongside an abundance of fresh produce, condiments, and extras (pigs in blankets anyone?), all of which will often come with full traceability. And don’t forget your everyday essentials like bread and milk.
A 3 Donkeys Christmas
If you’re thinking of buying small this year, don’t forget to check out our own range of 3 Donkeys ladies coveralls, apparel, and gift vouchers. They’re ideal for the equestrians in your life and you can get items individually gift wrapped using sustainable and recyclable materials, and free delivery.
And don’t forget – if you subscribe to our newsletter, you can get 10% off.
