Become Spellbound: Handmade in the USA, no tariffs.  Shop local and handmade to support art in your community

Become Spellbound, Not Mass-Made: Why Supporting Small Businesses Matters More Than Ever

In a world dominated by mass production and fast fashion, choosing to support small businesses is a powerful act of intention and connection. At Become Spellbound, every piece of jewelry is handcrafted with love, intention, and crystal magic. But beyond the beauty of our creations lies a deeper story—one of resilience, community, and the challenges that small businesses face in today’s economic climate.

The Hidden Costs of Mass Production

While big-box retailers offer convenience and low prices, these often come at the expense of quality, sustainability, and ethical practices. Small businesses, on the other hand, prioritize craftsmanship, conscious sourcing, and personal connection. However, they also face growing challenges:

Tariffs and Trade Policy Impacts: Recent shifts in trade regulations have raised the costs of imported goods—especially for artisan makers who source high-quality gemstones or sustainable materials. Here’s how tariffs are affecting small businesses.

Platform and Payment Fees: From Etsy to PayPal, many platforms take sizable cuts from each sale, making it harder for small shops to thrive.

Operating Solo: Behind most small brands is a single maker or a tiny team doing everything—design, packaging, shipping, marketing, and more.  Here at Become Spellbound it is a one-woman-show!

Kari Dern of Become Spellbound working in her studio, packing orders.  Shop small, shop local!

The Magic of Shopping Small

When you choose to shop small, you’re choosing heart over hype:

You Support Real People: Each purchase uplifts an artisan, a dream, a small studio.

You Receive Something Unique: Whether it’s a one-of-a-kind crystal talisman or a made-to-order garment, small businesses offer pieces infused with intention and soul.

You Create a Ripple: Supporting small-scale makers leads to more sustainable practices and tighter-knit communities.

✨ Tip: Looking for handmade magic? Be sure to shop directly from artisans’ websites or on curated handmade marketplaces like Etsy, where you can discover soul-led creations in every category.  Buying direct from the artist is always best though if you can!  Even Facebook and Instagram add fees to purchases made through them.  

Kari Dern, founder of Become Spellbound crafting crystal jewelry in her studio in Baltimore City.  Shop local, shop handmade!

Meet Our Stockists: Supporting Each Other in the Handmade Ecosystem

We’re honored to have our handcrafted crystal jewelry carried by some truly magical spaces across the country. These independent shops not only believe in the power of handmade goods—they embody the spirit of community, ritual, and soulful living.

If you’re near any of these locations, stop by, support your local small business and feel the energy in person:

🖤 Baltimore, MD

✨ Beyond Baltimore

  • Reiki Bar 102 Ward St Unit 1, Montgomery, NY
  • Soul ii Soul 8011 SW 40th St Unit 103, Miami, FL
  • Nocturne Salem 18 Front St, Salem, MA
  • Cozy Coven 267A Central Ave, White Plains, NY
  • Temple 1222 Flagman Way, Santa Fe, NM
  • Crystalarium  534 N La Cienega Blvd Suite B, West Hollywood, CA... Coming SOON!

These shops are more than just retail spaces—they’re allies in our mission to spread beauty, ritual, and intention far and wide. When you support them, you’re supporting a vibrant ecosystem of makers, mystics, and dreamers!

How You Can Support Small Businesses Right Now

Leave a Review – Your words matter! Reviews help other shoppers discover brands like ours.  You can leave us a review HERE :)

Follow & Share on Social Media – A like, save, or story share is more powerful than you know.

Tell a Friend – Word of mouth is magic.

Sign Up for Newsletters – Most small businesses (like ours!) offer early access and subscriber-only perks.

Subscribe on Instagram- for a few dollars a month you can show some extra love to your favorite makers and they will often offer perks- we offer early access to all drops to our IG subscribers and some exclusive content!  

Shop Handmade, Shop Direct – Whether it’s Etsy or your favorite local boutique, choosing handmade is always an act of love.

Your energy matters. Every time you choose handmade over mass-produced, you’re casting a vote for a more beautiful, connected, and intentional world.

With all my gratitude and appreciation,
Kari
Become Spellbound




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