As a small business owner myself, I love supporting other small business owners. It takes a lot of work to turn a vision into a reality and a lot of faith to take that big scary step. While I’m not a huge fan of the post Thanksgiving gauntlet of sales (although it is admittedly good time to start your Christmas shopping), I love that there is a day to celebrate and encourage support for small businesses, so I thought I would highlight some of my favorites. Some are personal friends, and all of them I’ve shopped from for years.
I have been collecting Linen Bee dresses and tunics for almost 10 years. All of their clothes are custom made to my measurements, so they fit just how I like them. Their fabrics wash well and their designs are timeless. They are my go-to pieces for travel, church, outings, and antique markets. Linen Bee is run by a mother/daughter duo and their passion for their products is clear in every garment.
I have been internet friends with Emily Lex since our early blogging days. I loved following her commitment to paint with watercolors every day and then watch that bloom into a thriving business. She is so impressive as an artist and entrepreneur, and is also a wonderful person. Emily Lex Studio now carries watercolor workbooks, home products, paintable note cards, wrapping paper, and more.
I shared about my young friend, Ella, a few weeks ago. She started knitting and selling hats to make some extra money as a college-age student. She is such a go-getter, and even built her own website! She released some new colors for Christmas, so if you need a nice homemade gift and want to support a young cretive entrepreneur, you can order a hat from 31 Stitches. use code SMALLBIZ10 for 10% off.
JSH Home Essentials has beautiful fabrics, papers, and accessories for the home. I admire Jenny so much as a designer and business owner. Of course, we share the same love for a blue and green color palette. I have some of their block print pillow cases, wrapping papers, and I buy some of their brass sleigh bells each year.
I’ve also been internet friends with Laura of Finding Home Farms since my early days of blogging. I knew her as a home blog and crafter, but she is also a part of a family that has been making syrup in the Hudson Valley for four generations. They are passionate about their products and their syrup really is amazing. It makes a wonderful gift for people who have everything, who also like pancakes, waffles, and whatever else you can put syrup on.
Laura explained to me that maple syrup is similar to wine and, when you order it from one maker, you get syrup that has a distinct flavor, notes, and undertones. Typically syrup purchased from a larger seller is a mix of syrup from several different farms and regions. So, when you buy syrup from Finding Farms, you know you’re supporting a family, small business, and getting a delicious product.
I have bought most of my stash of antique art supplised from Julia of Ponder & Purchase over the years. Not only is she a great source for English antiques, but she is a wonderful friend and I got to meet her in person this fall. She lists some shippable finds on her Instagram page, so it’s a good account to follow if you’re looking for something unique for yourself or someone on your list.
I’ve purchased several antique kilim rugs from Kilim Rug Home, and they have all been such a beautiful addition to our home. They are affordable, hard-wearing, and come in a variety of sizes, colors, and patterns. The runner I bought for my kitchen is my favorite! Use coupon code MISSMUSTARDSEED for up to 75% off.
Lastly, if you’re here reading my post, you’re already supporting my small business. Traffic to this blog is one piece of my revenue pie and I’m always thankful that I get to make things, write, and take pictures, as a part of my living. So, thank you!
I do have some new products for sale if want to purchase from my small business as well. On Society6, I have surface designs (papers, home decor, accessories) and fine art prints of some of my oil paintings, which I shared in more detail yesterday. They are offering up to 50% off products currently, too!
And, my Miss Mustard Seed & Creative Tees are on sale through December 1.
If you’d like to share your own small business or one that is a favorite, please link to it in the comments. (I need to approve links so it won’t show up right away, but I’ll bee looking out for them and approve them throughout the day.)