The world of small businesses and buying handmade has grown drastically over the years and seems to really be empowering SAHM’s and hopeful full-time working mommies like myself to be able to not have to deal with the pain of income vs. your “dream job.” I am amazed and love reading the section of Etsy where people have been able to turn their side business into their everyday job… and yes I pray one day I can say the same.
However, I’ve really had to deal with this mindset in my journey where I valued the cost of many items I saw on Etsy or handmade sites (even Instagram is becoming quite the marketplace), but I thought to myself “I can make that!” Have you said that? Especially if you have the skill of sewing, crocheting, or just a creative mind. I can easily talk myself out of a purchase by thinking…well I really could make that and save myself the extra money, but what am I really doing? Honestly what is that mentality really saying? I’m sure anyone could look at things I do and have done and say the same.
As I’ve really started to step outside of my own personal desire to stay home and be a small business owner, I’ve really learned to appreciate my fellow creative minds. The goal isn’t really to say you can do it, but to support the person that is. Yes, you can hot glue a flower on a headband…but for the person who made that sweet little photography prop a lot of thought went into what you’re seeing. You’re not just spending money on a product, you’re supporting a dream and a vision! Yeah sure you can make it, but are you really? And why not pay it forward if you can? There are wonderful unique items that deserve to be appreciated, but don’t if you have this mentality like I did. Yes you can save money, but the beauty of the small business/handmade community is you have to think beyond YOU. It really does cause a sense of selflessness.
Check out Etsy and see some of my favorite sellers and what they have going on or even go on Instagram and snag a Flash Sale! Here is a great start:
Two Sparrows Headbands
The Pink Poppy Shop
Opposite of Far
Julie Ann Art