Given the current state of events with coronavirus and our economy for all intents and purposes shut down, for the time being, it seemed like a great time to revive this post from Small Business Saturday. Now more than ever, small businesses in our communities are struggling and may not make it out on the other side of this global disaster.
There has been plenty of online chatter about buying takeout at your local restaurants to help them stay afloat but I think we should also try our best to help other small businesses as well if you are able. While some of these businesses are closed for the time being, others are still functioning online or on social media.
The following two lists are from my old post back in November but aren’t even a ripple in the bucket of businesses out there who could use our support, both in Seattle (or your local community) and online. I’ve included a shortlist of other ways to help your local favorites at the bottom of this post as well if you want some ideas.
SMALL BUSINESSES IN SEATTLE
Anchor Chic Consignment – This is hands-down my favorite consignment shop in Seattle. It’s curated so well and I always find something to come home with when I stop in. They are pretty selective about what they buy so it’s never overly crowded and all the brands tend to be higher-end (J.Crew, Land’s End, and up).
Childish Things – Now that I have a kid, I’ve been looking all about for a good second-hand children’s clothing store and this is the best in Seattle. They carry a mix of both new and used items at reasonable prices. Similar to Anchor Chic, they carry only higher-end brands so I always find really nice things of good quality that still have plenty of life left in them.
Endless Knot – This shop in Belltown carries so much cute clothing. I used to stop in quite frequently when I worked downtown and always loved seeing their new arrivals. If you’re ever in Seattle in November-ish, Endless Knot has a giant clear the rack style sale. Most pieces are 50% off and you can get some killer deals on their pieces, which aren’t the most affordable 99% of the time.
Lace and Pearls Jewelry – My lovely friend Asa took the plunge about two years ago and started her own jewelry line. It’s been thriving and I can’t wait to see where she takes it in 2020. If you need any romantic feminine handcrafted jewelry, she’s your girl. She also has an online shop where you can order online!
Moorea Seal – While Moorea Seal is a local Seattle boutique, you may have heard of the woman Moorea Seal, the author of 52 List Project and 52 Lists for Happiness. Well, she also has a storefront here in Seattle and an online shop for any of you out of towners. Moorea Seal carries so many interesting pieces, it’s a lot of fun when I get time to time to peruse the store every now and again. From shoes, clothes, and accessories to books, cards, and office supplies (the cute kind). If the clothes aren’t your style, definitely check out her signature books. They make excellent gifts!
SMALL BUSINESSES ONLINE
Dudley Stephens – I’ve been hearing so much about this brand that I’m thinking about making a purchase. They make environmentally friendly and sustainable fleece products for women and kids.
Honey & Hank – I’ve recently discovered this company and have completely fallen in love. They make whimsical textiles (napkins and pillows with tabletop and wallpaper to come) featuring different states. If you haven’t gone over to their website yet, go and see what I’m talking about. It’s so cute. I ordered a couple of sets of the 50 States Hydrangea napkins to give as gifts this year.
Lace and Pearls Jewelry – My lovely friend Asa took the plunge about two years ago and started her own jewelry line. It’s been thriving and I can’t wait to see where she takes it in 2020. If you need any romantic feminine handcrafted jewelry, she’s your girl. She also regularly attends local Seattle trade shows like Urban Craft Uprising in case you want to see her products in person.
Simply Bourne – My new Simply Bourne wallet is my latest favorite! It has forced me to abandon my heavy cumbersome wallet and allows me to go hands-free with a wallet, wristlet, and keys all attached together.
One/Third – I’ve been following the blogger Anna Jane for years now and she’s finally launched a jacket line. I don’t own one yet but all three styles look like something I would/should have in my closet. Definitely check out One/Third if you love classic versatile pieces that will instantly upgrade your jeans+tee look.
OTHER WAYS TO HELP LOCAL SMALL BUSINESSES
- Order books through your local bookshop versus Amazon (call/email and have them put in the order for you)
- Leave a Yelp review
- Follow them on their most active social media platform (generally Facebook or Instagram)
- Share your favorite local spots and why you love them on your social media (My friend Jenn has been sharing neighborhood tours on her Instagram account with her favorites and how to support them now and later. She has a great template on her Instagram stories)
- Buy gift cards for yourself or others to use later
