Supporting local businesses strengthens the community and helps reduce the carbon footprint associated with shipping and large-scale production. This year, consider these ways to support local businesses while gifting.

• Duluth Winter Village: This festive market at the DECC on December 7-8 features unique goods from local artisans.
• Small Business Saturday: Shopping on November 30th keeps your holiday dollars close to home.
• Local Artisans and Shops: Find holiday cards from local artists, handcrafted floral or greenery arrangements, and treats from local chocolatiers.
• Gift Cards: Perfect for those who love dining, wellness, or experiences, gift cards from local businesses support the economy and make thoughtful gifts.

Secondhand treasures can make thoughtful and sustainable gifts, allowing you to give items a second life. Here are a few ideas to help inspire your thrifted holiday finds:

• Household Gift Bundles: Look for gently used items like hand towels, cookbooks, or glassware. For example, create a "kitchen care package" with thrifted kitchen items, a cookbook, and perhaps some locally made jam or a soy candle.
• Presentation Matters: package secondhand gifts in thrifted baskets or boxes, and consider adding a new treat or two for a personal touch.

If you’re looking for more secondhand inspiration, check out these examples of thrifted gift ideas.

Holiday gatherings don’t have to come with a large carbon footprint. Here’s how to celebrate in a greener way:

• Mindful Travel: Carpool to events when possible, and consider travel-efficient plans to reduce emissions.
• Eco-friendly Meals: Source ingredients locally and opt for reusable dishware, utensils, and cloth napkins over disposables.
• Recycling Efforts: Set up recycling bins for easy sorting of bottles, cans, and cardboard during gatherings, making it easier for guests to participate in your sustainability efforts.

Traditional wrapping paper often can’t be recycled due to coatings or glitter, and it’s estimated that millions of tons of it are discarded each year. Consider these alternatives:

• Brown Craft Paper: A rustic and recyclable option that can be personalized with eco-friendly markers or stamps.
• Newspapers and Fabric Bags: Both creative and reusable! Even if newspapers aren’t as common, repurposing them from local sources adds a unique touch.
• Reusable Bows & Twine: Skip the plastic ribbons and go for natural or reusable options like twine or fabric bows.
• Save Gift Bags: Store bags from previous years to give gifts with a reused bag. Reuse boxes, or skip labels in favor of writing directly on the package.

At Odyssey Resorts, we believe that every small choice adds up to make a difference. This holiday season, let's all make an effort to shop sustainably, support local businesses, and reduce waste, so we can keep the season merry, bright, and green. Happy Holidays!