On Supporting Small Business

For the past three years I have supported myself solely on an income from my small business. It hasn't always been easy, but I'll never regret it. I've learned so much about work ethic, celcebrating each small step and countless lessons learned the hard way. The truth is that all small businesses are incredibly hard work. Each one has it's own set of struggles, hopes, dreams and fears. Through all of this, I've learned how incredibly important support is! I wouldn't be where I am today without the loyal support my my friends, family and blog readers. Because of this it's very important to me to support other small business owners whenever possible. Buying handmade, vintage and local... theses are topics I could talk all day about. It's such a wonderul feeling to support people who you believe in. I would love to encourage you to support small businesses this Holiday season! It's a magical way to give back to people who take big risks to bring something special to the marketplace... like this dress I'm wearing today. xo. elsie

Outfit Details: Dress/The Velvet Bird (yep! it's handmade!), Shoes c/o ModCloth, glasses/UO, Cardigan/hand-me-down from Missy. 

Comments

[Rebecca Kelsey]

I am so happy that you have had the support you needed to be able to live doing something that makes you happy and fulfilled. I can imagine nothing better. =)

Kindness is the best accessory,
Rebecca

[Karrie]

I agree with you. Iam buying local and hand made this year for sure!!

[Ms. Megan]

I agree!! Small businesses are such a wonderful thing! And I love your Velvet Bird dress!!

[Sophie]

Hi Elsie,
This is a lovely post! It's wonderful that you've made your living as a small business owner and stay true to your beliefs. Thanks for spreading the love, I am learning more and more every day how important it is to support small businesses.
Your dress is lovely btw!
Sophie

[Meli (Blush + Jelly)]

I always love to support small businesses. My father was a small business owner and it was always nice to see how he created a customer base of regulars that would only buy his furniture. It takes a risk taker with a vision.

[lucy]

Well said Chicken, we are a little behind you US girls with our handmade and vintage though, we could do with a few more Etsy sellers in the UK x x

[meesch]

People who take big risks to bring something special to the marketplace - absolutely perfect way to describe small business owners! My family has owned a pottery studio for over 30 years, so I absolutely know the struggle and dedication it takes to make a small business work and grow! I can't wait to make a trip out to your store, Elsie!

-meesch
http://www.aperfectkindofday.com

[Rae Veda]

Great post! I love to support small businesses. xo, rv

http://aneclecticheap.blogspot.com/

[Charlotte]

This is a lovely post, I'm glad you're happy with your choice to be a small business owner.. you are very inspiring!

Also, your dress is very cute.. I love stuff like that, and I always try to buy handmade or vintage when I want something special xx

[Nicole Snedden]

Small business is so important to the economy. It's how everything began. And small business is always more focused on the local consumer. It is more tailored to YOU. As opening up a my own business is a dream of mine, I will most definitely support as many local businesses as I have family members this holiday season. Merry Christmas!

[Elizabeth]

Absolutely. I am trying to make this Christmas handmade and small business buying as much as I possibly can.

I have jsut opened a little etsy shopping selling a few bits for Christmas time, and just to make a few pennies from each purchase is an absolute joy for me. I could get to like this very much!

x

[Vanessa Porter]

Ahh!! Elsie....this is just the best thing I've read in a very VERY long time. It can feel scary sometimes trying to do your own thing and not just going out and getting a "real" job. My heart is so full right now it just might explode! You are such a sweet, genuine, and one of a kind person. I have really appreciated your support and advice, thank you so SO very much!

Hooray!!!!

[Christa aka the BabbyMama]

I guess I'm a small business (at http://christaterry.com) but I haven't gotten things off the ground yet. End goal is definitely to support myself - well, bring in the $ to help my family enough to quit my reg. job - but I'm in the position where I'm not local and there are so many people who do what I do for cheap in other countries. Makes it hard to get by!

[jackson]

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[jackson]

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Thank you.

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[Spark]

Thanks for your inspiring message today. My resolution for this Christmas is to buy as many gifts as possible locally from independent shops. So far, so good!

[Kim]

Firstly, you look adorable! Daily, I'm in awe of your motivation and inspiration. Thank you for that. You have made a lot of like minded people believe in themselves, their skills, their dreams...maybe for the first time, maybe again.
Thanks Elsie!
Your always supportive blog reader/experiencer,
Kim

[Jackie]

I love what you wrote, and I believe in supporting small businesses 100%!
You brought up such a valid point that small businesses take a risk—and that in return they truly are bringing something unique to the marketplace.
My favorite treasures are from small businesses—so in the spirit of support I will definitely continue to support local businesses for the Holidays!
XO!
http://www.hourglass-fashion.blogspot.com

[Kate]

I love this post! I am a small business owner too and have worked so hard on my little brand! We are all so unique too, imagine how boring everything would be if there were no small quirky brands out there!

Kate Garey
www.kategarey.com

[Mrs. Overbey @ Daily Doily]

I agree. I think it's becoming more + more popular. I'm happy that there are so many unique small businesses to shop from. Yours is great + inspiring!