The Emotional Cost of It All – And Why We Need to Support Small Businesses During Tough Times.

Is this what we have to look forward to.

The World’s on Fire… But I’ve Got Labels to Post

I wasn’t planning on writing a blog post this morning, but after logging into Facebook and seeing several posts from small business owners in tears, throwing in the towel — not because they’re financially ruined (yet), but because they’re emotionally wrung out — I realised I had far too much to say for a social media caption.

So here we are.

It’s Tough Out There, Isn’t It?

Everywhere you look, small businesses are calling it a day. Not because the tills are empty (though give it time, eh?) but because people are exhausted. Mentally, emotionally, physically – just done in. And they’re choosing to walk away before they’re left broken in every possible way.

And I don’t blame them.

I worry about the future. Not just for my own little business, but for every single small business — in every niche, every industry, across the world. It feels like the whole place has gone mad. I’d love to tell you I’ve got the solution, but let’s be honest — I can barely keep up with my emails, never mind fix the economy.

This Isn’t a Political Rant (Promise)

I’m not here to start a political bun fight – I’m not qualified for that. I can only speak from experience — about how things are affecting me, my business, and the other amazing makers and sellers I know.

Behind the scenes, it’s getting messy. I’ve heard of overseas factories closing their doors almost overnight because tariffs and shipping costs have sent customers running. Orders are being cancelled left, right and centre, and workers — real people, with families to feed — are being sent home.

Now, I know there’ll be voices shouting “Just buy British!” and don’t get me wrong, I do when I can. I was chuffed to bits to partner with a UK manufacturer for my Bag Tag Club labels recently! But the truth is, sometimes we have to import. Some of the items we use just aren’t made in the UK, or if they are, they’re priced out of reach. That’s not a rant, I promise — just a bit of context

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So, What’s Happening Behind the Scenes at Me Made Makes?

Honestly? It’s getting trickier.

Some products I usually restock with no bother are suddenly a nightmare to get hold of. I’ve been fobbed off, messed about, and I suspect it’s because my suppliers are firefighting behind the scenes too. Their own supply chains are tangled, and nobody’s really saying what’s going on.

Yes, a lot of my range does come from all over the place, but I always try to work with UK businesses when I can. Supporting local and all that. But like everyone, I’m just trying to keep the wheels turning.

Am I Worried? Well… Yes and No

Yes – because I can see a stressful road ahead.

No – because if life’s taught me anything, it’s that I’m nothing if not stubborn. I’ve faced worse and I’m still here. I can pivot, adapt, scale back, shift gears. I’m not in this for yachts and fancy holidays. As long as I can keep a roof over my head and the Wi-Fi running (most of the time), I’m happy. That’s life now, and I’m alright with that.

How You Can Support Small Businesses During Tough Times Right Now

If you’re wondering how to help, it doesn’t have to mean spending loads of money. Here are some simple, powerful ways to support your favourite makers, sellers, and creators:

🛒 Buy direct – If you see a small biz selling on Etsy, Amazon or eBay, check if they have their own website. Buying direct means they don’t lose a chunk to platform fees.

❤️ Like, comment, and share – Social media’s a funny old beast. The more you engage with a business's posts, the more the algorithm shows it to others. It costs nowt but makes a huge difference.

🔁 Share the love – Got a friend who loves what you love? Tag them! Share that reel, post that photo. You never know who’s watching.

⭐ Leave a review – If you’ve bought from a small business and loved it, shout about it. Google reviews are gold dust, especially when you mention the business name and what they sell. It helps them climb the rankings and get found by more lovely people like you.

📺 Support their content – If your favourite small biz is on YouTube or TikTok, watch their videos. Like, comment, subscribe — all that jazz. It really helps, and they might even earn a few pennies from it too.

So, What’s Next for Me?

Well, I’ll keep doing what I do. If I need to tweak the business, I will. I’m not scared of hard work – though at nearly 50 I’d hoped to be winding down, not gearing up again!

Going forward, I’ll be pouring more energy into the community side of what I do. That means growing the YouTube channel (once the internet behaves), reopening the Bag Makers Sew-Ciety Club in July, and keeping the fun going with the Bag Tag Club.

As for everything else – it’ll sort itself out, one way or another. It might be a bumpy ride, but I’m buckled in and ready.

Thanks for sticking with me – and with every small business you support. We see you. We appreciate you. And we couldn’t do it without you.

Until next time happy sewing and may your bobbin always be full.

Love, Deb x