The holiday season is the perfect time to support businesses big and small based in the United States.
When putting together your holiday shopping list this year, consider products that are made in America.
You can find American-made products both online and in-store that will make a unique Christmas gift for whomever you are shopping for.
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Below are a few tips for seeking out U.S.-based businesses this holiday season.
- Attend a bazaar or craft fair
- Leverage social media
- Shop around on Etsy
- Double-check the labels
- Scour the internet for products made in America
- Shop at boutiques before chains
1. Attend a bazaar or craft fair
If you like to shop in person, try to do some of your shopping at a local bazaar or craft fair to support small local businesses.
Each business will have its own booth set up with a bunch of its products for sale. This is a great way to learn more about businesses in your area, too.
You’re likely to find all kinds of gifts at a bazaar or craft fair, including clothing, accessories, home decor and more.
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You’ll come across unique handmade gifts that you won’t be able to find anywhere else.
You also may find businesses that you love and want to continue buying from in the future.
2. Leverage social media
Scrolling through social media can open your eyes to tons of businesses you may have not known about before.
Businesses big and small use social media as a way to advertise their products to a large audience.
On social media, you may come across a new business or two that you're interested in learning more about.
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3. Shop around on Etsy
Whether you have a gift idea in mind, or you’re looking for some inspiration, take a look at products sold on Etsy.
There are millions of active sellers you can buy from, most of whom run American-based shops.
Etsy is a one-stop shop for many types of gifts, especially customizable ones. If you want a personalized product to gift to someone for the holidays, there is most likely an Etsy shop that creates exactly what you’re looking for.
When you search for a specific type of product on Etsy, you can filter the results to only show the products made in the U.S.
4. Double-check the labels
When doing your shopping, check labels before throwing anything in your cart.
If you come across a product while you are shopping that isn’t made in the USA, research the same or similar product at an American-owned business.
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Chances are, you'll be able to find something American made.
5. Scour the internet for products made in America
The best source for finding American-owned businesses is the internet. If you have a specific product you’re in the market for, look it up and see if you can find any made in the USA.
There are several online directories that feature lists of American-based businesses.
Just remember that when buying online, you should allow plenty of time in advance, since businesses will be busy with orders and could experience delays.
Typically, the beginning of December is a good time to put in your online orders for the best chance at arriving before Christmas Day.
6. Shop at boutiques before chains
If you’ve never gone into a local boutique before, use this Christmas season as your excuse to check them out.
A boutique holds locally sourced, high-quality items, usually fashionable clothing and other accessories.
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You’ll be able to find unique pieces here that you won’t necessarily find at a chain store.