‘Don’t take it personally, it’s only work!’ – My thoughts on Black Friday

And yes, I will be spending some of my hard-earned cash with local shops, on local products and with a smile. I will do it for 2 reasons, I love a bargain, but also, today is a day many will go hunt a bargain and forget what great things are on your doorstep. It will mean a lot to some of these businesses that we buy, especially today. They have put their hard-earned money into their marketing campaigns, they will have made sure they have that extra stock, and they may even have extra staff on in case there is an influx of people shopping in their brick and mortar store or online.

Why it matters!

Last night, I stayed up until 4am, making sure some of my client work got finished by the weekend. Why did I do it? For the same reason I will shop local today. They deserve it! As small business owners, they deserve the best from me, to make sure I deliver, and they get what we agreed. Do I sometimes miss a deadline? Do I sometimes make a mistake or forget something? Of course! But I am only human and yet, when it happens, I take it personally. It is time away from my family, time away from other things and it is at the end of the day, a clink in my armour – wanting to do the best for my clients who are also small business owners.

So when today you go shopping for those Black Friday deals, please think Green. Think sustainable, think local, shop local. There are small business owners that have put their heart and soul into their business, who believe in what they do, and it gives them joy and purpose. Support them with your hard-earned cash when you are looking for that bargain, that gift, that surprise, that treat or even that thing you don’t need.

Because to small business owners, it is personal.

Below is my list – and no, these are not my clients – just some of my favourite places, and businesses and they deserve the opportunity to be celebrated. And not all have a Green Friday deal – because they chose not to and that is ok too. And remember, small businesses do take it personally, because to them, it is not only work, it is their livelihood. So treat them kindly – and shop local. Because to small business owners, it is personal.

My go to local businesses - not just for Ireland!

For amazing candles – Emma’s So Naturals

Try the Pomander scent to get a bit of Christmas into your house. Or my favourite – the Harmony blend if you feel like sitting back and relaxing.

For Amazing wines – Adriatico Wines

I love their Prosecco for celebrations and currently have 2 boxes of her Habsburg white wine, some for Christmas and some waiting to be delivered to clients as presents.

For all things BBQ – Food on Fire

Our BBQ foods are that much better since we came across Food on Fire. Not just because of the BBQ equipment we have bought, but the rubs are amazing. Try the Turkey on your Christmas Turkey – you won’t regret it!

For all things Bamboo – Jo Browne

If you want that perfect sleep – check out her bed linen. True luxury and the best night’s sleep ever! Her Facial Cleansing Balm is so amazing too!

For all things organic skincare – Esker Fields

Check out their Lavander and Peppermint foot cream – your feet will thank you for it!

For your gut – The Gut Experts

Let’s face it – we all have issues with our gut. But if you are like me, you might have a little bit more than others. This book, while aimed at women, has helpful tips for all who suffer from gut related issues. Check it out – What Every Woman Needs to Know About Her Gut

For that something different – Fad Saoil Saunas

I am Finnish – I was never going to leave Fad Saoil Saunas without a mention. A sauna will do you the world of good after a stressful day.

For your data – ReGDPR

Protect your data – it is that time of the year when all sorts of hackers are around due to the amount of online shopping. ReGDPR will make sure you have your Privacy covered in case you do get into a spot of bother as a business.

For something that will last a lifetime – Orla Kelly Publishing

We all have a story in us – maybe it is time you tell yours? It is an investment, and it will stand to you as your legacy in word and print will continue way past the time you do. And Orla Kelly will make your story last the test of time.