This series focuses on why our members shop handmade. The intent is to help give reasons to friends, family and fellow makers for why shopping handmade is so important, especially during the holiday season. I hope you will share and enjoy! You can also read the whole series here.
Wendy Vitzthum of Av Jorden
Denver, CO
What does shopping local mean to you as a small business owner? What impact does people's choice to shop local make on your life?
When people shop local small businesses they are supporting people and their passions as well as the community itself. Shopping small means you are directly affecting the person running that business. You are allowing them a life that helps support their families. Keeping things in the community when you buy local helps it thrive and grow. It has the possibility to create jobs, to boost the economy, to improve people's way of life.
How has running a small business changed your life?
My customers help support my family. Their purchases allow my son to play soccer, my daughter to get creative through art, and to put food on the table. When people shop my business, they are allowing me to be at home with my family and watch them grow which is extremely important to me.
Lana Tarpinian of Ana + Mar
New York, NY
What does shopping local mean to you as a small business owner? What impact does people's choice to shop local make on your life?
I enjoy shopping local because it helps small businesses thrive. I sell wholesale to my local kids boutiques so it impacts me when things sell there and I get reorders. I also love buying my kids unique items you can not find on Amazon.
How has running a small business changed your life?
I have been selling on Etsy for 7 years. My business did very well for many years and kept me very busy. This success allowed me to contribute financially to my family while taking care of my children. Now in the last year and a half my sales have decreased slowly and steadily. Its a little scary because after 7 years I am thinking about going back into the work force and look for a part time or full time job.
