As a result of the pandemic, the past few years have been difficult for small businesses. Many have had to close their doors. If you live in NYC and want to support local artists and artisans when shopping for lifestyle and home goods, then we’ve got tips for how to do just that along with brands you can support. Skip the big chain stores and instead look for local gems.

Why Support Local Businesses

Before we get into the how let's review the why. You may be wondering why it’s even worthwhile to support local artisans when you know the bigger brands are reliable and have exactly what you want. There are so many reasons why it’s great to support smaller local businesses, here are just a few:

You get quality over quantity — Handmade home goods are one of a kind, and usually of exceptional quality that will last a lifetime. You don’t have to worry about it falling apart or needing to replace it after a few years.
You get something with a story behind it — These products aren’t mass-produced in a factory, you get something special created with exceptional skill.
You get customization — Most artisans make pieces to order, so you have the option to get a custom piece, made just for you and your specific needs.
You help reduce your carbon footprint — Most local artisans operate sustainably and by shopping local, you help reduce carbon emissions from the production and transportation processes.

You’re helping local businesses thrive — By supporting small local businesses you’re offering support to the local economy and jobs.

How to Support Local Businesses

There’s a lot you can do if you’re interested in supporting local New York-based small businesses, artists, and artisans. Keep reading for our tips below.

Shop in Person

Shopping online has a major convenience factor, but when you do a google search for specific products or businesses you’ll likely see the bigger stores first. The smaller businesses, though they have great products, don't have the same prominent online presence so it’s easy to miss them if you’re just relying on an online search.

And as we mentioned before, shopping in person also has environmental benefits.

Show the Love

If you’re happy with the products or services of a local business then give them a good review. Many small businesses rely on testimonials and reviews, along with word of mouth to get new customers so they’ll be very grateful for your kind words of support. Give them a shout on social media to help spread the word. You never know who else in your network may benefit from knowing about the local shop.

Gift It

If you’ve found a spot you like, think about how you can continue to support them in the future. If you need to buy gifts for friends and family keep them in mind. Or see if they offer gift cards you can gift to someone who will truly appreciate it.

Furniture Makers

If you’re in the market for new furniture pieces, then check out some of these New York-based furniture makers. With these brands you know you’ll get quality designs and craftsmanship.

Uhuru Design is a Brooklyn-based furniture design firm with a focus on sustainable production. Their modern and bold designs have been featured in high-end residential and commercial projects. They have an NYC pop-up space that’s available by appointment and a range of pieces available online.
Sentient Furniture creates handmade bespoke pieces with sustainability in mind. They feature beautiful collections of tables, chairs, credenzas, beds, and upholstered items, along with unique custom pieces. Their pieces have been included in both luxury residential and commercial spaces. You can schedule a visit at their Greenpoint studio and workshop.
Mark Jupiter offers timeless high-quality furniture for a range of residential and commercial spaces. Shop their collections online or ask them about their custom work. You can also visit their showroom in DUMBO.

Wud Furniture is a Brooklyn-based furniture company, led by a husband and wife team. They make stunning handcrafted furniture, surfaces, lighting, and objects. They have a gorgeous collection of pieces and each item is customizable by size, scale, and finishes.

Home Goods

If you’re looking for products for your home beyond furniture, check out some of these brands that offer a range of home goods. Perfect for gifts or to find those extra special details that make your home feel like you.

BDDW is an internationally recognized luxury brand with a showroom in NYC but now has representation in Europe. They’re known for their bespoke furnishings, ceramics, and clothing – all made in the founder’s Philadelphia studio.
The WonderMart is a home goods shop that has a wide range of products and handcrafted goods. They represent over 100 local brands exclusively from emerging artisans throughout New York state. Their products are currently only available online but they’ll be opening a brick-and-mortar location in Greenpoint. Follow their Instagram to stay updated.
Collier West features vintage homeware designed by artisans both locally and globally. Their products include a range of rugs, dishware, jewelry, art, and more. Visit their shop in Brooklyn.

Rebecca Atwood is a textile designer, based in Brooklyn, who makes ethically produced wallpaper, fabric, and pillows. Browse her soft and whimsical patterns online or visit her showroom in NYC.

Health and Beauty

For natural and sustainable health, beauty, and skin care products these two New York gems are a must-visit. Great if you’re looking to mix up your self-care routine or if you need to find the perfect gift.

The Alchemist’s Kitchen works with herbalists across the country to make high-quality botanical medicines, remedies, and beauty products. They celebrate artisanship, sustainability, and conscious living. Visit their store in Soho.
Marianella was founded by a mother and son team and they make sustainable soaps, fragrances, and beauty products. They have two Brooklyn locations, one in Cobble Hill and another in Greenpoint.

Excited by all this local design inspiration, but feeling overwhelmed by all the options? You need an experienced NYC-based interior design team to do all the sorting and design work for you. At AHG Interiors we create custom spaces tailored to your specific style and needs. Contact us today to tell us about your project.

Best ways to support local artisans in NYC