At the beginning of 2025, I made the decision to give up Amazon.
I wasn’t someone getting packages on my doorstep every day or even every week but I did rely on Amazon for a handful of business supplies (paper bags, muslin bags, polishing pads, boxes), a few personal convenience items, Prime Video, and an Audible subscription. My annual subscription was up in April, but I committed to finding new suppliers for my business items by the end of January and not spending any further money with Amazon.
Finding Alternatives
I replaced Audible with Everand, which I highly recommend. I listen to a lot of books while making jewelry or traveling to shows, and Everand gives you three books a month for the same price Audible charges for one. The selection is great, and the app is easy to use so it was a total win.
On the business side, I found new sources for my packaging and was pleased with the quality especially the bags (both paper and muslin). I also started watching other streaming services and didn’t really miss Prime Video.
Honestly, at that point, I thought: this was easy why do people struggle to quit Amazon?
The Slip
Well… the joke was on me.
By late summer, my husband was traveling a lot for work, and I had officially reached the end of the internet when it came to shows I wanted to watch. So I caved and signed back up for Amazon “just for a month.”
That month turned into two, and soon I was hitting the easy button again buying a few things because it was convenient. The company I’d bought my favorite muslin bags from was out of stock, I needed a new phone case, and my other option (without spending hours searching) was Target which, let’s be honest, isn’t much better in terms of supporting small business.
Back on Track
In September, I canceled my Amazon account again and recommitted to my goal. I realized I do have the time to find what I need locally or from smaller businesses online it just takes a little more effort and intention.
This holiday season, my goal is to buy local, trade for, or make all of my gifts. Any of my maker friend who read this and are interested in trading, hit me up!
Why It Matters
So why go through all this effort? Why not just click the easy button?
Because shopping small matters.
When you buy from a local business, you’re not just buying a product you’re helping your community thrive. You’re keeping money circulating in your local economy, supporting jobs, and encouraging creativity and craftsmanship.
Small businesses often source ethically, package thoughtfully, and take pride in quality over quantity. Every sale, no matter the size, means something. There’s a human behind it a maker, a grower, a dreamer who celebrates every order.
And that feels a lot better than seeing a smiling box show up on your doorstep.
A Personal Note
As someone who runs, a small Vermont-based brand built on sustainability and creativity, I see firsthand how much every single purchase matters. Each sale allows me to continue creating up-cycled pieces, sourcing responsibly, and showing up at markets and shops around the state. When you choose to shop small whether from me or another maker you’re helping keep that spirit of craftsmanship and community alive.
Here’s to a slower, more intentional season of giving and to supporting the people who put their heart into every product they make.