This is the first year that our family won’t have a discussion regarding the purchase of a Christmas Tree. Typically, we procrastinate until we find ourselves in a tree lot on December 23rd or 24th picking over Charlie Brown trees that have long since stopped drinking up water. Last year, after a lengthy discussion, I gave in and allowed my husband to purchase an artificial tree. We decorated it in the tears of the Christmas angels who wept over the plastic atrocity. This year, we will pull it from the closet and reenact the sadness once again as pine tree essential oils complete the lies we tell.
To help ease my conscience, I’ve decided to share some of my favorite places to shop for Christmas gifts. Ethically made goods and donations to amazing organizations are ways to make your holiday shopping gifts twice as nice.
International Justice Mission:
Rescue a slave, provide aftercare for a sex trafficking victim, or help pay the court costs for child victims of abuse; your donations can literally save lives. Give a loved one the gift of making a difference.
Refuge made products including soap, candles, and other handmade goods are available. Gift donations can also be made to help refugees and those caught in combat zones.
Coffee, tea, chocolate and much more. You can even set up a fundraiser through Equal Exchange to support an organization you care about while shopping for gifts.
Wether you host a party or shop online, you can support artisans from around the world. Consider buying an ornament set and breaking it up to provide inexpensive gifts for teachers or service providers on your list.
Shop in a store or order online. You can sort gifts according to price or collection. If you go into a store, be prepare to stay awhile. Everything is beautiful. I love their clearance section.
This online shop has a wide variety of fair trade items for sale. I’m in love with the table I bought from them a few years ago. Beautiful gifts from around the world are available for everyone on your gift lift.
Excellent for the knitting or crocheting enthusiast, but what I love best are their sari wrap skirts. Each one is unique and comes as a surprise. If you don’t like it, you can exchange it, but I’ve been happy with all of the ones I’ve bought.
Aprons, mens and women’s clothing, and even custom printing on ethically made t-shirts. Maybe you want matching t-shirt for a family reunion or just for fun.
With less than 8 weeks until Christmas, Happy Shopping!
