One spin around the web for every week of the school year
by Jennifer Binford
This week: The giving season
I wish I were kidding, but it’s practically December. Maybe this doesn’t come as a news flash for you, but those of us still emerging from a Halloween sugar bender are blinking uncomprehendingly at the calendar, trying desperately to account for the last three weeks or so.
And with the avalanche of shopping ads that will inevitably bury us in the days to come, one’s thoughts naturally turn to gift giving. I for one am a big proponent of a sincerely delivered note of thanks to the teachers and other dear staff who make our Mathews experience so special. I don’t think anything is more gratifying than having someone take time out of their busy season to express their appreciation with a kind word.
Of course, the National Retail Federation begs to differ, but who cares?
But let’s say you don’t bake/can’t knit/won’t revise your pre-recession buying habits and want to deliver a small remembrance to a special teacher/librarian/coach/counselor/nurse/office staffer/principal/custodian/crossing guard/lunchroom attendant without a soul-sucking/expensive/ad-fueled trip to the mall. Can it be done?
Yes! First of all, you can shop locally. The Austin Independent Business Alliance has designated six local business districts (South First, North Loop, etc.) to help promote uniquely Austin vendors. At their site, you can click any of the districts to get a list of locally owned businesses in that area. Boutiques, studios, bookstores…all brimming with merchandise you can feel good about.
Second of all, you can buy handmade. This movement is really taking off. People want to feel more of a connection to the items they purchase these days, and buying from a craftsperson means you’re sure to give a one-of-a-kind gift. The Web’s handmade juggernaut is Etsy. Search for a teacher gift there, and prepare to be overwhelmed (in a good way) with personalized stationary, unique felted paperclips, utterly affordable Post-It holders, fun bookplates, and so much more. You can even use their Geolocator to find Austin crafters!
There are lots of good ways to say thanks this season, and plenty of them don’t involve opening your wallet. But if you’re so inclined, there are ways to support local businesses and independent craftspeople while you share the holiday love.
See you next link!
