Why Shopping Early and Local This Christmas Makes a Difference

The Christmas season can sneak up quickly — and before we know it, we’re swept up in the rush of last-minute shopping and endless “Black Friday” sales. But there’s a gentler, more meaningful way to approach gift-giving this year: shopping early, and shopping local.

When you buy from local makers and small businesses, you’re doing more than just ticking gifts off your list — you’re helping keep our communities creative and connected. Every purchase supports real people: the designers, artists, and craftspeople who pour time, care and imagination into what they make. It’s a ripple effect that helps keep money circulating in our local economy and ensures small businesses can keep doing what they love.

By shopping early, you also get to skip the stress. It means more time to choose thoughtful gifts, more options before things sell out, and less reliance on rushed shipping and big-box chaos. Plus, it gives small businesses (like us!) time to make and package orders with care, reducing waste and last-minute pressure.

Our Christmas sale is now live online, so you can get started on your gift list early — sustainably!

And if you prefer to shop in person, come and see us at the Encraftment Market on 22–23 November. It’s one of our favourite events of the year, full of amazing local makers and beautiful, thoughtful gifts — the perfect way to get all your presents sorted in one go.