As small business owners, we aspire to move away from Amazon and support local shops to strengthen our communities, which is vital for businesses like Willinglee. However, completely avoiding Amazon isn't always feasible, especially for those facing financial challenges. As a busy parent, I often wish I could shop locally but find Amazon's convenience hard to resist, particularly during urgent situations, like when my daughter needs medicine. While I support initiatives to promote local shopping, I recognize that there are times when Amazon's ease is necessary… let’s dive in.

Hearth & Hammer is owned by husband & wife team Ariane Scholl and Andy Kenney. The goods they carry are products you’ll feel happy about purchasing—made by other small businesses and artisans. What’s more: they create their own candle line to “illuminate literature through aromatic storytelling.” The scents they create bring classics like Walden Woods and The Great Gatsby to life.