Survey: What Kind of Presents Are You Giving?
by Lloyd Alter, Toronto 
on 12.21.07
Earlier this season we suggested that you should "take a stand against cookie-cutter consumerism, sweatshop labor, and rampant environmental destruction by pledging to buy and receive handmade gifts." Others noted that most "crafty" things are completely unnecessary - jewelry, clothes, bags, home furnishings, etc., which people almost certainly have plenty of.
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Why are all of your polls always black & white? How about an option for both. This year we're giving an assortment of homemade canned goods as well as a small, purchased item (90% books) all 'wrapped' in a reuable bag.
I bought all fair-trade/sweatshop-free, if that counts for anything. And didn't buy from any big-box/chain.
I was going to say the same thing as the first commenter. I bought a lot of handmade gifts at craft fairs and on Etsy, made about half myself and picked up a few things at big box stores that I thought the recipients would completely love. I picked the first option on the poll, since almost everything was handmade, but it would probably give a more realistic picture if you allowed for a mix.
I do themes. Last year everyone got Al Gore's documentary, this year it's everything that's made in America. Instead of colorful gift wrap I use old wrapping paper and just draw on it for a personalized look (I used to use old newspapers too).
Happy Newton's Day.
Same here: I think there should be more options for people doing a combo of things; I made half my offerings but admit to going more mainstream than I meant to for others. Hey, making progress each year...
I am taking everyone out to dinner - mostly at small local places near my parents home in Wisconsin.
This is the first year I am doing this & I was inspired to do this because I am in the process of moving and am floored at how many "things" I have accumulated in a short time- it made me think alot about consumerism and owning "stuff"
The food will not be organic- there are not yet organic restaurants in Wisconsin. Maybe next year I will make everyone a meal and can use organic food.