Buying Handmade: What’s in it for YOU?

BUY HANDMADE.  When I say “buy handmade” does that provoke change in you?  I’m pretty sure that phrase preaches to the choir.  So let me explain. This phrase is packed with meaning and stories and emotion and more.  So when I say that, here’s just a preview of what I’m saying to you.

Of course I want you to buy handmade because it means you’ll support me and my business.  However, I realize handmade is more expensive than your commercial stuff.  Handmade isn’t always the cookie-cutter-you-know-exactly-what-you’re-getting-stuff that you can depend on like Starbucks (no matter where you go, that latte is going to taste pretty much the same).  And people like that.  But we all like to be unique, and I can assure you that handmade is just that.   

I cannot compete with commercial stores.  Let’s take the wallets I make & sell as an example.  They currently sell for $45.  I know you can go to a store like Target and find a mass-produced wallet there for $12 that will do exactly what you need it to do, and it will fit the current style/trend you’re hoping for.  I  can’t compete with that because there’s no way I can get the materials and time spent down enough to make a $12 wallet.  No way.  But I tell you what: the wallets I make are each unique and one-of-a-kind.  I make them to last.  They’re special.  And you become a part of a story when you purchase something made by hand.  

And where does that $12 spent at Target go?  I’m not going to pretend that I know.  But I do know that when you buy something handmade and local that your money stays in your community.  It supports an individual and makes your community sustainable.  You can vote with your dollars, and you have a lot more power than you think.

So what’s in it for you, you ask?  I’m not just saying buy my stuff.  I’m asking you to consider being a part of my story.  To own something unique made just for you.  To keep your well-earned money in your community.  And to have value and appreciation for what your purchase.  I can’t compete on price nor can I compete with high quantities of choice, but I can compete with making something just for you.