Shopping Small in 2020
After a year of unfortunate pandemic firsts, we find ourselves facing yet another, the 2020 Holiday Shopping Season. It would be convenient to shop exclusively on Amazon and online at big box stores. Yet, this year it is more important than ever to be intentional about allocating our gift budget dollars.
Many small businesses and restaurants are on the brink of closure. They need customers, and we need thriving small businesses to enrich our communities and economy. Therefore, this holiday season, I ask and encourage everyone to consider allocating a portion of their holiday budget to small businesses.
Shopping from the comfort of your couch is going to be your safest holiday shopping option this year, but not every small business has an online store. After researching, I’ve found that many small businesses have risen to the challenge and developed sound in-store safety protocols. Small businesses are also able to flex more easily to their customers’ needs. They have proven this by adapting their spaces, their hours, and many of their service options to ensure that customers can shop at the comfort level of their choosing.
My goal with this guide is to outline how you can shop safely at many local businesses. Most of the shops I’ve listed are in Irvington, but that’s because it’s where I live and primarily where I shop. I hope to expand this guide as the holiday season progresses. I encourage everyone to reach out to small businesses in their neighborhoods to learn more about their COVID safety protocols.
Black Sheep Gifts
I have purchased many gifts from Black Sheep Gifts in Irvington. They offer a broad selection of gift items, including toys, kitchen items, games, funny gifts, clothing, jewelry and more. They don’t have an online store, but you can follow them on Facebook and Instagram to see many of their products.
How to Shop: You may shop in person, by appointment, via Facebook events and by phone. Private appointments are available before and after hours. They can also accommodate virtual appointments and provide personal shopping services. The shop offers free local delivery or curbside pick-up, and they will also pack and mail gifts purchased in-store for customers.
Safety Protocols: Masks are required and provided if needed. Hand sanitizer is provided at the front door, back door and counter. They also offer a contactless payment option.
Curious Gift Picks: Golden Girls gifts galore, Roll & Go Puzzle Mat, Ambre Blends
Hampton Designs Studio & Shop
Hampton Designs Studio & Shop is at the top of my places to revisit list. Last year I purchased a dino terrarium from them, and it now sits on my desk, sparking joy every day. This shop is chock full of unique, artsy pieces, which are best experienced in person, so if you aren’t comfortable shopping in person now, you should definitely check it out in the future.
How to Shop: You can shop in person or online. Customers may order items online, opt to pick them up at the store or call for parking lot pick up. They also offer porch drop off for local area orders.
Safety Protocols: Masks are required and provided if needed. Upon entering the store, guests are asked to sanitize their hands before handling merchandise. There is a thorough cleaning regimen throughout the day for high-touch areas. The number of guests in the store at one time is limited.
Curious Gift Picks: Dolly Parton Celebrity Candle, I Heart Indiana Necklace, Melamine Coasters (Scorpion, Goldfish, Lion, Ram)
Homespun: Modern Homemade
I’ve been shopping at Homespun since they first opened. It’s a great shop that carries handmade goods from several craftspeople and artisans. It’s like getting to shop all of the goodies at a craft fair but in one store.
How to Shop: You may shop in-store, online or via call-in ordering. They offer curbside pick up and private shopping appointments before opening or after closing hours. In addition to their online store, you may now purchase select items through Instagram.
Safety Protocols: Homespun practices social distancing in-store by limiting the number of customers in the store at one time and providing distance markers on the floor. They also require guests and employees to wear face masks and provide disposable masks to customers who need them. Hand sanitizer is also available.
Curious Gift Picks: Cypress & Cedar Soy Candle, The Science Of Beer Pint Glass Set, Child Belt Bags, Simple Heart Brass Necklace, You Got This Mantra Coloring Book
James Dant
Every detail in this store has been carefully curated, and the shop’s focus is on well made, stylish clothing and accessories for men. This is where I go when I want to purchase something special for the dudes in my life, but I often find something I want to buy for myself (looking at you, Chemex Coffeemaker).
How to Shop: You may shop in-store by appointment only, and they offer a simple online scheduling tool to make an appointment. You may also shop online and can opt for curbside pick up or shipping at checkout. They offer free domestic economy shipping on orders above $75 and free premium shipping when you spend $200 or more.
Safety Protocols: Appointment only in-store shopping, mask requirement, and cleaning between guest appointments.
Curious Gift Picks: Death Star Tumblers, Porter Ribbed Beanie, Chemex 6 Cup Coffeemaker, Taylor Stitch Long Haul Jacket
Onatah General
Onatah General is pure Instagram magic, and the shop itself could be the sister store to Rose Apothecary (for all of you Schitt’s Creek fans out there). They offer many environmentally and socially conscious products. This is another spot to add to the post-pandemic visit list if you aren’t comfortable going out right now.
How to Shop: You may shop in person or online. If you shop online, you may opt for pick-up or shipping at checkout.
Safety Protocols: Masks are required and provided if needed. Customers must sanitize their hands or wear gloves upon entering the store, and the staff will sanitize their hands frequently. Only 4 shoppers are allowed in the shop unless all customers are okay with more people. High touch areas are sanitized often, and they offer a contactless payment option. Also, there is a HEPA air filter running 24/7 in the shop.
Curious Gift Picks: Diamond Handwoven Wool Pouch, Sneaky Snake Notebook, Actually Curious Card Game, Curiosity Edition (duh), Wyatt Throw