As a certified B Corporation, we put being an ethical and sustainable company as the framework for growing a better business. When we came across Emily's instagram, we were intrigued to learn more about her and understand from a consumer's point of view what they might look for when deciding where and who to spend their money with. We contacted Emily to find out her story, check out the full interview below.
When did you first become aware about being more ethical and mindful in your purchases?
When I was in college I studied social entrepreneurship and we learned about a lot of different businesses making a positive impact. I loved this idea and wanted to support brands that were using socially responsible and ethical practices. During my sophomore year in college I watched The True Cost and became more aware of the impact of fast fashion. Both of these events made me want to further my knowledge of consumerism.
Have you heard of B Corporations before, if so which B Corp do you shop with? (you can skip this, or if you'd like to answer search b corps on www.bcorporation.net
Yes, I have heard of B Corporations. A few B Corporations I've previously shopped with include The Good Tee, EarthHero, MiaDonna, KNOWN SUPPLY, and Allbirds.
What advice do you wish you could give your younger self?
I would tell myself that being creative is a beautiful gift and it will be your superpower later in life. Throughout my time in school, I didn't really feel like my creativity was seen as a strength and I wasn't the most book smart student. However, later in life I was able to use my creativity to launch my blog and e-commerce shop.
What kind of impact are you hoping to make in our world?
I'm hoping to make people more aware of what they are buying. Through my blog, The Honest Consumer, I explore the sustainability of certain brands, products, and practices and create ethical shopping guides to encourage people to make more conscious decisions. I also have an e-commerce shop, Give a Damn Goods, that carries a wide range of ethically made products from small businesses. My goal with Give a Damn Goods is to show shoppers that conscious consumerism and responsible gift giving can be fun.
What are your hobbies?
I love writing, obviously, as I'm a blogger. I also enjoy baking, playing the piano, and traveling.
What are your favorite forms of self care?
One of my favorite forms of self care is laying in bed with my dog and cat. They can both have a very calming presence and they remind me how important it is to be in the moment.
Where are you from?
I'm originally from Dallas, but currently live in Seattle.
What is one of the greatest lessons you’ve learned in life?
Loving yourself makes all the difference. Truly accepting yourself is a journey for sure, but when you get there and accept the good, the bad, and the ugly, I think it changes your whole perspective. This allows you to live more authentically in manors such as realizing what type of people you want to surround yourself with, realizing what you're worthy of, and rethinking what your goals are.