It’s no secret that I’m a huge believer in adding more meaning to the things we bring into our lives, whether it’s our clothes, our decor, or the gifts we share with the people we Love. And that’s exactly why I want to take a moment today to chat about something I’ve become more and more passionate about in recent years: shopping Etsy.
Quote of the day: “Be less curious about people and more curious about ideas.” Marie Curie
Now, don’t get me wrong. I am no stranger to Amazon’s advantage of “arrives tomorrow.” But when it comes to items that feel special, creative, personal, and absolutely brimming with character, Etsy has my heart.
There’s just something magical about knowing your purchase helped a real person who’s running a business from her home studio or kitchen table.
Today I’m breaking down why shopping Etsy is one of my favorite ways to find unique gifts, AND to support Small Businesses, plus a few honest-to-goodness downsides (because I believe every option has a pro and con).
This idea is not new on my site. I’ve shared other articles about this same concept (although not all Etsy stores I shared in those older articles are still in business):
–Shopping small
–Gift Guide for acquaintances
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One of the things I adore most about Etsy is that it’s basically a giant digital craft fair… but curated by the entire world.
If you’ve ever wanted something one-of-a-kind, something with personality, something that feels like it has a story behind it…then Etsy is where it’s at.
What do you strive for when purchasing a gift for that someone special? I’ve had this discussion with friends, and the consensus is to get them something they want but wouldn’t buy for themselves.
Sometimes that “something” has yet to be discovered, but sometimes you’ve heard them talk about an idea or issue.
I’ve found everything from watercolor state pictures to custom pet portraits, to a quirky kitchen towel that I hang on my dishwasher.
Whether you’re shopping for a friend, a grandchild, a partner, or even yourself…shopping Etsy can be the ticket.
Pro tip: Now that Joanne Fabrics has gone out of business, I have found trims and notions on Etsy.
One of the biggest reasons I feel so good about shopping Etsy is knowing that my dollars are going straight to a small business owner.
Sometimes we forget how much power we actually have with our purchases. Buying even a $25 item from a small shop can make a huge difference in someone’s day or someone’s entire month.
And let me tell you, this is something I think is incredibly important. We’ve lived long enough to understand the value of community. We remember what it felt like to go into local stores where people actually knew our names. Shopping Etsy brings a little bit of that back.
In this online shopping world we live in, I think gift-giving has gotten harder. We already have everything at our fingertips and purchase those things throughout the year. Gone are the days when you put together a holiday list and didn’t buy them for yourself, right?
But shopping Etsy changes the entire experience.
If I really analyze it, it is the difference between giving a gift and giving a memory.
And it’s not just about fashion (although I love that selection too). There’s truly something for everyone.
As much as I adore Etsy, there are a couple of downsides.
Unlike Amazon, where most shipping charges magically disappear, many Etsy sellers are shipping from their homes, their studios, or small local shops. They don’t have the bulk rates big-box companies do, so sometimes that shipping fee can feel like a surprise.
My approach?
I treat it like tipping at a local bakery. It’s part of supporting real people. And honestly, for a handcrafted piece, it’s usually worth it.
Yet, there are times that I have deleted an item from my cart because the shipping was just as much as the item.
Pro tip: Look under the Shipping and Return policies to find how much the shipping will cost. Or it will show up when you check your cart, and it’s easy to delete that item from your cart if it seems too much.
Etsy also isn’t built for two-day delivery.
While that means you won’t get your purchase tomorrow morning, it also means you’re getting something made with human hands, not a conveyor belt.
I’ve learned to shop early, especially around holidays. It feels less stressful and like a job well done that way.
Here’s what’s helped me make the most of shopping Etsy:
If you’re logged in, you can heart items and save them to collections. I keep lists like:
Especially with holidays or birthdays, you don’t want to wait until the last minute.
Pro tip: If you see something that just strikes your fancy and you think it would be good for so and so…buy it and save it for that person’s birthday or the holidays.
I’ve learned to even put their name on a tag when it comes, so you remember who you bought it for.
Many items on Etsy are one of a kind. So if you love it, make sure to snag it right away.
Handmade means every item can be a little different. Reviews help you know what to expect, and descriptions often explain materials, shipping timelines, and customization options.
Some sellers will offer you a discount after your first purchase with their shop. They will email you a discount code, and it’s a fabulous marketing practice.
For me, shopping Etsy is exactly what the holiday season is all about. Love, community, and thoughtful giving.
It’s about choosing items that feel special, supporting someone else’s passion, and finding gifts that make people light up. Sure, the shipping isn’t always lightning fast. Sure, it may cost a few extra dollars. But you’re supporting a real person, not a warehouse the size of a football field.
Whether you’re holiday shopping, birthday shopping, or simply browsing for something that sparks joy, I believe that Etsy is absolutely worth exploring.
So the next time you need a gift, consider giving Etsy a scroll. And make sure you have ample time…there’s SO much to explore.
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The post Why I’m Shopping Etsy More Than Ever appeared first on Jodie’s Touch of Style.
