Journal — Conscious Consumption

In the midst of the Coronavirus pandemic, small businesses are struggling, and will continue to struggle. These businesses create jobs and contribute to thriving communities. So when they struggle, the economy struggles, neighborhoods are less vibrant, and individuals and families feel the impact. So what can you do to support small businesses even in a pandemic?

1. Shop locally. If you need to shop and feel comfortable going out, support a small shop in your community. Not up for going out or social distancing? Check your favorite local shop's website to see if they do online orders, or call and ask if they'll deliver. I bet they'll be more than ready to help. Also, when your favorite small business announces that they are doing things that are good for their employees (eg: paid sick leave) and the community, tell them you appreciate this effort when you are buying from them. It just may motivate more businesses to make the right choices, even when they aren't legally required to. 
2. Shop small. If you are shopping online, skip the Big Box and support companies that need your investment more. Small and medium sized enterprises feel the brunt of economic downturns, and need your support more than ever.
3. Open that email. Small businesses spend a lot of time crafting emails to you and content for you. A good business will give you more than they will ask. This means, that their content can actually be useful to you. So open and read that email they send, then click through to see what other content they've got for you. It's not just about a sale, it's about connection. And when their email click-through rate is better, it means that their emails are less likely to be sent straight to a spam folder.
4. Be a social media super-fan. Like, comment, save, and share their posts on social media. This will help more people see their content, and help them get the exposure they need when things are tight.
5. Write that review. You bought the thing, you love it, but you just haven't gotten around to writing that review. Now is the time to do it. The best advertising is word-of-mouth, and when you write a review on Google, Facebook, their website or all three, you help others know that they can trust the brand they are thinking of supporting. 

How else can you support small businesses? Share your ideas below and we'll add to this list!

Image credit: Three Birds DC

With Father’s Day around the corner, I wanted to share some brands I’ve come across for men that mix sustainability and style in a way I love. Maybe this will spark some ideas for the fathers in your life. What are some of your favorite menswear brands for the Jackalo dads in your life?

• Patagonia Worn Wear. Patagonia remains an inspiration for Jackalo in how we do business. They are one of the most thoughtful and conscientious businesses out there and their Worn Wear program was one of the inspirations for our own TradeUp program. Jackalo recommends: If you are looking for new gear for your weekend adventures, shop their packs.
• Portuguese Flannel. This Portugal-based company clothes that fit the laid-back, beachy aesthetic of Portugal. Jackalo recommends: Another way to twin — their chore coat with our Billie Jacket so that dad and kid look dapper together.
  
• Outerknown. Started by surfer Kelly Slater, Outerknown has a really strong focus on sustainability and transparency. Jackalo recommends: Their Nomadic Volley swim trunks are the perfect balance of vintage feel and timeless classic.
• Nudie Jeans. This Swedish company makes great jeans (that the Jackalo dad in our family loves). They offer lifetime repairs and a discount your next purchase when you turn in your used Nudie jeans. They then repair and resell the jeans (just like us!) Jackalo recommends: Steady Eddie Dry Selvage Jeans
• United By Blue. This Certified B-Corp and Philly company was just getting their start when we were there, but they’ve grown by leaps and bounds. They pick up a pound of trash for every garment sold and focus on using sustainable materials. Jackalo recommends: Another way to twin — their Spence Shorts are the perfect complement to our Nickie Shorts.