Don't Panic... It's Only the Holidays

Get ready your inboxes are about to be flooded with ads for black Friday and holiday shopping. I'm already panicking about what to get my loved ones. Instead of focusing on buying a gift simply to buy something how about buying a gift that benefits humanity and the earth.

Here are 3 simply ways to shop:

1. Shop local. Support locally owned and operated business. Come visit Bon Castor at 3207 Burgundy Street this small business Saturday. This truly unique treasure of a gift store was started by Amy Knoll, because she wanted "a place where she could by a birthday gift in her neighborhood."             

2. Shop fair trade. Tuesday, December 1st is #fairtuesdy - an ethical shopping movement inspiring conscious consumerism. Everyday purchases can change lives in a whole community when you buy from fair trade, ethical, and eco-friendly brands all dedicated to creating positive, sustainable change. From one of our favorite bloggers here is a great list of ethical, do-good companies. Plus shop Passion Lilie online from 11.27-12.1 to get 40% off site wide and a free gift of a hand block printed greeting card. Coupon code: EthicalFriday. 
3. Give love. It is nice to get a gift, especially when it is ethically made, but the most important thing during the holidays is to spend time with neighbors, family and friends. I challenge you to reach out to someone this holiday season that is in need of some good company- bake them a pie, take them to the movies or just give them a hug.