I’ve never been one to maul the mall on Black Friday. I tend to exercise restraint during these spendy moments, but I’d be silly if I didn’t take advantage of lowered prices, especially when both of my Alberts have birthdays around now and I need to buy gifts regardless. But then if I’m going to buy things, I can’t do so without supporting those causes I hold near and dear. Philanthropy is something that can and should happen all year long, but Giving Tuesday is a great reminder to offer a little boost to important charities. Here’s what I opened my wallet for:
Black Friday and Cyber Monday
- Jewelry: I used to have more fun with jewelry but now prefer more lasting pieces. I still want them to be unique, but I go for higher quality and more sophisticated styles…which obviously costs more. A discount comes in very handy.
- Stone and Strand: I got a pair of pastel drop earrings, which are fairly priced and ethically sourced. They’re veryyy dainty – almost too tiny but not quite. For the price, I’m impressed.
- BaubleBar: Based on my jewelry strategy described above, this is no longer my go-to store, but they had some very good prices on 18 carat gold so I got a delicate necklace with mini horseshoes and pearl huggies for everyday wear.
- Fashion
- Brandon Blackwood was 50% off so I finally got a Kuai bag that I’ve wanted for a while
- On clouds are my fave running shoe, but after getting a deal a year and a half ago, I refuse to pay full price. They sold out in the last Nordy sale, but on a hunch, I checked if they discounted any of them for these holidays and they had – instant add to cart.
- Staples from a fave clothing brand that I won’t name because I snagged a gift for my Mom
- Two full workout sets from Peloton because the prices were crazy
- Artifact Uprising: Holiday cards get pricey so I made sure to use a discount on this big purchase
- A brand I’m not going to mention so my brain doesn’t know what he’ll be receiving for his birthday
- Target: Mostly clothes and shoes for V since the prices were incredible and he needed new snow boots. They also had a buy 2 get 1 book deal so, while I prefer to shop indie booksellers, I got some of those. (It’s finally time for me to read Serpent and the Wings of Night.)
- Apple Books: again, I like to go to my local booksellers…but there were some great sub-$5 deals and I’ve spent hundreds of dollars at the indies recently so it felt ok.
- Amazon: It’s about time to move Finn up to the next car seat and there was a deal on the Ride Safer vest so I got that. I also scored some deals on goody bag fillers and decorations for his birthday party on Friday.
Giving Tuesday
When it comes to charitable giving, I tend to home in on a handful of causes that are near to my heart and then identified those organizations that best service those causes. My hope is that my donations will have more impact that way.
- Joyful Heart Foundation: I’ve long been impressed with their work and how they have increased awareness around domestic abuse, drawing attention through strategic media initiatives. Another option is Safe Horizon. Still in the arena of preventing domestic abuse/violence, this organization picks up where the media leaves off. Among other things, they offer legal services and sanctuary for victims.
- Central Park Conservancy: We would be lost without Central Park. I am happy to contribute if it means this incredible city perk remains beautiful.
- Robin Hood: When it comes to fighting poverty, I want to start in New York since it’s where I live. I really like Robin Hood’s practical, data-driven approach and see them making a real difference.
- First Book: Organizations that champion literacy have always been a high priority to me. Books are my haven, and I believe that discovering a love of reading early helped put me on a path to success. I particularly like this organization because they understand the difference between equality and equity – and addressing that is how we will ensure more children receive a proper education.
- Federation: One thing about the Jewish people is that we value community. Ensuring that community stays in tact and supported is vital, especially as antisemitism continues to climb.
I’ve also used this as an opportunity to see where I might be able to volunteer my time and skills (and, later, my money if it feels like a fit). I discovered HEAF, a great organization stewarding students to college. I feel like it’s impossible to prioritize my own neighborhood – Harlem has given me so much and I want to make sure it continues to thrive.
Peaches to Apples 