Black Friday & Small Business Saturday

Who's finished their holiday shopping already? Who hasn't even started? Who plans to hit Black Friday sales?

I'll cop to not having started yet!

It's possible to be sustainable while doing your holiday shopping, even if you participate in Black Friday!

Level 1

Focus on reducing your waste as much as possible by planning ahead and going reusable.
  • Plan your route so you don't end up driving around in circles.
  • Bring your reusable shopping bags.
  • Pack your coffee in an insulated mug. It'll stay hotter longer, anyway!
  • Skip the gift-wrap service. (Come back next week for tips on how to wrap gifts the eco-friendly way!)
  • Only buy what you really need, not just anything you see that happens to be 50% off.
  • Stopping for a lunch break? Bring your own drink bottle and go inside instead of hitting the drive-thru.

Level 2

Instead of waiting in line for most of Thanksgiving afternoon and fighting big crowds this year, do your shopping at local stores and participate in Small Business Saturday. It still counts if you visit local shops on Friday! Just about anything you need can be found at a local and small business.

When you support local shops and businesses, you know exactly who you're supporting, and you know your money is staying in the local economy. You can find unique items and get personal customer service. While it's a great one-day event, it's important to make shopping at local businesses a priority all year long. 

https://www.americanexpress.com/us/small-business/shop-small/
 

Lafayette small businesses Bengals & Bandits | Parish Ink | The Backpacker | Red Arrow Workshop | Caroline & Company

Many of the same shopping tips still apply:
  • Plan your route to be the most fuel-efficient.
  • Bring your reusable shopping bags.
  • Pack your coffee in an insulated mug or bring your mug to a local coffee shop for an extra treat.
  • Skip the gift-wrap service if offered.
  • Only buy what you really need.
  • Choose a local restaurant for lunch! Especially in Lafayette, we have tons of great local options. Just try to skip the styrofoam.




Small Business Saturday 2014: Lunch and a local soda by the fire and Christmas tree at Joey's

Acadiana has a wide variety of local businesses, and you can go from great Christmas gifts to everyday necessities like groceries. Any day of the year, supporting a local business has a big impact on your community. Share your love and shop small!

Lafayette small business E's Kitchen

Some local crafty people and entrepreneurs don't have a physical shop, but sell their goods on their websites, sites like Etsy, and even Instagram. These can be great places to score handmade, upcycled or vintage finds, especially jewelry! This year during the holiday season, I'll be sharing some of my favorites on Facebook and Instagram.

Level 3

Save your shopping for a day other than Black Friday and get outside to enjoy nature! Or stay home and decorate, it's up to you! Lafayette business Pack & Paddle is hosting their second annual Black Friday protest paddle over on Bayou Teche. While registration is closed, it's a great inspiration for other outdoor shenanigans. You can also stop by their store to celebrate Small Business Saturday.




What are your plans for Black Friday and Small Business Saturday?

No comments

Back to Top