Why Buy Local Irish Gifts?

We love local producers, crafters, makers, and artists! That's why craftgifts.ie was born - to support local business. So why do we believe shopping local is so important? Here are just a few of the wonderful things that come from supporting a local business:

1. It's better for the environment

Buying local products reduces your carbon footprint because things are coming from closer to you! That means a happier planet and less pollution from your gifts! 

Handmade products are created in small batches or are one of a kind items, rather than being made in big factories, too, which means they require less energy to be produced.

Special, handmade gifts are high quality and are meant to last a lifetime. That means they won't end up in landfill in a few years and they won't contribute to our waste problems. 

2. Supporting local business means supporting communities

When you support a small craft or artisan business you are also supporting a neighbourhood. The money you pay for your unique Irish gifts stays in Ireland, to be spent on goods and services here. 

Each time you buy an Irish made gift you are helping to give someone a job. You are supporting local craft industries and people. This gives the creator confidence in their product and helps them to build their small business. As their business grows they can further develop their skills and support themselves. Maybe they'll even grow big enough to hire people to help them! 

3. Local and handmade goods have a story behind them

When you buy a handmade Irish gift you aren't just giving someone a thing, you are giving them an experience. You are welcoming them to be part of a craftsperson's story. You are giving them something special that they couldn't have got from a normal shop. 

The artist or crafter has put their time, their training, their skills, and their love into the gift as well. Which makes it so much more unique. You can learn the story of the person who made the gift - maybe they come from your mother's home town or your best friend's favourite holiday spot? These connections are only possible with local products. You can see and know the person behind the creation.

4. Local small businesses care about giving you an excellent gift and experience

They have made your gift themselves, so they want it to get to you safely and quickly. They want you to love the thing they have made, and they are happy to help. They will know the answer to every question - from the origin of the supplies to the size, shape, and customised extras. Artisans are genuinely happy to share their goods with you! They want to see the pleasure it brings to you as a new customer or friend.

Local artisans and artists are proud of their craftsmanship and skill. They work harder, longer, and spend more time obsessing over details to give you the best possible product. 

That's something you just can't replicate. 

So, shop locally.

Support small local businesses.

Buy from artisans and people who love what they make.

It's better for the planet, for communities, for the crafters, and for you!