Conscious Holiday Shopping at Big Box Stores

When it comes to the holiday shopping at big box stores, we can become blinded by the tinsel and lights and get so wrapped up in the glitter of the season that we can neglect the spirit of the season. It’s not always easy to remember that sometimes the best gifts are those that make a positive social impact. These can be the creations of companies who don’t skimp on natural, quality products; eco-friendly or fair trade fashions; or keepsakes that represent our increasingly multicultural future – and the best news is that it is possible to find them at your local big box retailer.

I am a firm believer in making conscious shopping choices and being selective with my dollars. I do not shop at certain retailers whose leadership I find intolerant or who make little effort to stock products for diverse consumers. I shop small whenever I can, but when I do buy from major retailers it makes me feel good to know that I can still invest in brands that are making positive contributions to the world.

Boost Literacy and Cultural Awareness with Lil’ Libros at Target

Lil’ Libros is the brainchild of two Latina moms who were disappointed in the lack of Latino baby books. So they set out to change our bookshelves forever with their line of baby board books that teach basic concepts like shapes, simple words, part of the body, etc, using Latino stories and characters, such as La Llorona, Zapata, Our Lady of Guadalupe, Frida Kahlo and Cuauhtemoc, as the framework. Every time I head to my local Target, I can’t help but pick up a new one. As a mom to a 3-month-old, I can’t say how much I appreciate these little books and I know other moms will feel the same.

When national chain stores take steps to represent its diverse consumers, it’s important to pay attention. When they represent them well, it’s important to support them. VIDA is the updated rebrand of the old Spanish-language Sinceramente Hallmark. But, this incarnation of the Latino-focused product line is more in-culture than in-language, meaning it’s a fit for those Latinos who may or may not speak Spanish, but who look for products that represent their style, culture and the way they live.

Find the Fun for Everyone with Plan Toys at Toys ‘R’ Us

It is possible to find eco-friendly and gender neutral toys in the sea of pink and blue plastic that is Toys ‘R’ Us. Plan Toys is a brand of simple, wooden playthings without bells, whistles, lights or the need for batteries. Items aren’t necessarily “girl toys” or “boy toys,” making them ideal for all children. What’s more, the company’s dolls are diverse and represent all sorts of multicultural families.

HEB offers a number of products that are fairly sourced and sustainably produced, but those from Global Purpose just might be the cutest. Consisting of three brands: Ecovet, Village Artisans and Global Purpose Giving Bags, the company offers pretty jewelry, scarves and wraps, small furnishings and gift bags, all ethically manufactured and created by “people living in vulnerable communities,” including women artisans in India and veterans in the U.S.

Do you know more good brands that do good? Let me know!