A Socially Conscious Christmas

Instead of spending good money for foreign, cheap goods that were probably produced in sweatshops, why not spend the money here in the U.S. by buying presents locally this Christmas?  While nowadays it is difficult to find a product with a “Made in USA” tag, there are plenty of options for the socially conscious this holiday season.
 
Go Local
 
If you want to purchase cute hair accessories for your best friend, go for a gift certificate at their favorite locally-run salon or spa.  For, one it is something that they will use—everyone needs a haircut, and who doesn’t love being pampered?  Also, a gift certificate from any locally-run business will contribute to the local economy.
 

 
However, if you are really hoping to give a unique item, look for an artists’ market where local artisans sell their crafts, jewelry and m
ore.  If you do not have anything similar back home, you still have time to head down toSoCo, where just across the street from the food trailers, artists congregate every Saturday to sell unique and beautiful artwork ranging from rings to paintings.  Not only will you be giving your family and friends one-of-a-kind gifts, but you will also be supporting the local arts.
 
Another idea to think about is something from your favorite Austin restaurant.  Although it is not feasible to travel back home with fresh food from your favorite joint, many restaurants have specialty items for sale that you can prepare at home.  For instance, Kerbey Lane sells pancake mix, while Chez Ez’s sells gourmet olive oil that you can use in your home-cooking endeavors.  If you do not have a cook in your life, you could always bake the items yourself and give the delectable treats as a gift, or go for a no-brainer with a gift certificate to their favorite local restaurant back home.

Think Outside the Box
 
Why do people feel the need for all presents to come in a box?  
Sometimes the best things in life are intangible. 
Why not offer your service to your parents for a day of chores?  Or make a coupon book with each one valid for a chore, such as doing the laundry, washing the dishes, mowing the lawn or shoveling snow for those of you who are from the northern states?  Mom and Dad would love the break.
 
Another idea is to buy tickets to watch a play produced by your local theater group.  This is a great gift to share with that special someone, the girls or even the family over the holidays.  Not only will you be spending time together, but also making wonderful memories to cherish for years to come.  In addition, it is a fun way to get into the Christmas spirit!
 

Get creative this Christmas and remember that it is not about how much you spend or how extravagant the gift is—it’s about the thought and the spirit of giving.

To see if a store is an Austin locally-owned business, check out this site.