The consumer buzz around the Holidays always leaves me feeling half-titillated, half-nauseated.

I want to give my friends and family something special to show them how blessed I feel to have them in my life, but I can’t quite bear the thought of contributing to mass-produced junk companies, and I definitely can’t get within 100 feet of a mall in December.

So what’s the solution? Support one of the many eco-minded, local and independent artisans who are making lovely (and affordable) gifts this holiday season.

Ok, Ok. Disclaimer: I am one of those indie artists, and while this may just be a big ole marketing plug, it is also a call for us to help change the way we buy…starting with this, the biggest gift-giving season of the year.

We know you are all out there spending ungodly amounts of money on eggnog lattes and plastic doo-hicky stocking stuffers, so why not spread a little of that dinero amongst those who are hand making precious and beautiful gifts and keep your money circulating in local communities?  (It really does make ALL the difference to us…and we will love you for it!)

I promise the gift recipients will be psyched when they open their unique handmade delights, and your uber-cool-and-cultured street cred’ will skyrocket. But where do you start? Try Etsy, check your local newspaper for holiday craft bazaars, or be sure to support locally owned boutiques who feature independent artists and designers.

This year, I am making lots of fun new holiday eco-gifts for my Etsy site! My one-of handmade earrings, headbands, belts and scarves ($15-$40), are all made from fabric scraps from my fashion projects and are perfect for those fashionable ladies in your life. I am also offering small organic abstract paintings ($90-250), prints on recycled paper ($20) and holiday greeting cards!

Here are a few more  cool indie shopping ideas that I LOVE from some of my favorite artists:

••• For the glamorous and eco-conscious woman on your list, look to Zansus Purses ($58), handmade from discarded fabric remnants and inspired by images from nature! I seriously want one!

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••• Gorgeous little bird paintings by the ever-inspiring painter Erin Donnelly are a wonderfully sweet gift for any bird-loving home, and now you can find them all on her Etsy site! ($50-300)

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••• Every urban fashionista needs a stylish Nicacelly hoodie or reversible quilted jacket ($50-87) this winter…especially knowing that each one is sustainably produced and independently designed and on sale online at The Giant Peach.

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••• Amazing little “Awesomeblage” sculptures ($50-300) by Rosemarie Hughes-Croucher are made from discarded objects, and they are as delightful as they are curious. This original art is sure to impress the lover of oddities (like me!) in your life.