I know this might sound funny coming from a small business owner, but sometimes bigger isn’t always better. Yes, even on Prime Day .

The truth is, holiday shopping can feel overwhelming. The sales, the countdowns, the “add to cart before it’s gone!” notifications… it’s a lot, even for me. And while there’s nothing wrong with snagging a good deal, there’s something special about slowing down and shopping small. It’s about connection, meaning, and supporting real people behind the brand.

The Difference Behind the Purchase

When you shop small, you’re not just buying a product, you’re supporting the people who make it. At Allie + Bess, that means supporting the incredible artisans who handcraft every piece with care and intention. It’s one of the things Bess and I are most proud of. We’ve had the same artisans since the very beginning, and they’ve grown with us while continuing to produce the highest-quality pieces. I love that we get to support local families right here in our community.

Each design starts with an idea, a color story, or even a feeling, and becomes something meant to be worn and loved. Nothing here is rushed or mass-produced. There’s a heartbeat behind every bracelet, necklace, and stack.

This year, we also brought on a designer who started out as an intern at Allie + Bess. As moms of daughters, one of our favorite parts of this journey has been watching young women grow in confidence. Helping them identify their strengths, learn new skills, and build belief in themselves has become such a meaningful part of what we do. Creating an environment that fosters confident, kind, hard-working women is something we’ll always prioritize.

Why It Matters During the Holidays

The holidays are full of noise, but gifts that mean something always stand out. When you shop small, your purchase carries a story. It’s thoughtful. Personal. One-of-a-kind.

Beyond that, Allie + Bess pieces are built to last. They aren’t meant to be worn once and tossed aside; they’re made to live with you. Through seasons, milestones, and everyday moments. We love being a part of your story, and we love it even more when you share those stories with us. When you DM or email to tell us where you wore your pieces or that you were complimented on your stack, it means more than you know.

Maybe the best part? Your order doesn’t just support a brand; it supports women, families, and small teams who are pouring their hearts into their work. The weight and responsibility Bess and I feel for our team is substantial. We know that we’re the source of income for so many girls and families and that’s never taken lightly. Every single order, every message, every friend you tell about A+B means the world to us.


The Joy of Shopping Small

You might not realize but we feel every order. We see your name come through and we celebrate it. We package it with care. We think about how you might style it or who you might be gifting it to. Some of you have been with us for years and at this point, we know your names and love seeing what you grab from each new collection.

Shopping small means getting more than just a product. It’s personal touches. Heartfelt packaging. Real connection. Real customer service.

Shopping small doesn’t mean you can’t shop big,  it’s about finding balance. Choosing gifts that matter, that tell a story, and that last beyond the season.

This year, let’s support the makers and artisans who pour their hearts into what they create. Because those are the gifts that carry meaning long after the wrapping paper is gone.


Shop jewelry designed by women, made with care, and built on community. The kind of gift you’ll never regret adding to cart.

-- ALLIE W.



 

Allie Wardlaw