Affiliate Links:
How They Work (and How They Help the Creators You Love)
If you need to shop online or at big box stores, use affiliate links. You’ve probably seen people online say things like “this post may contain affiliate links." I have this disclaimer on most of my content. But what does that actually mean? And why should you care?
So, what is an affiliate link?
It’s basically a special link that tells a brand, “Hey, this person sent you a customer!”
If you click a creator’s link and end up buying something, the creator earns a small commission — kind of like a referral bonus.
Here’s the nice part: it doesn’t cost you anything extra. The brand just shares a tiny bit of its profit with the creator.
Why it Matters
Affiliate links are one of the ways creators make money while keeping their content free — whether that’s blog posts, videos, art, or tutorials. When you shop through their links, you’re helping them keep creating the stuff you love.
Think of it like tipping your favorite artist or YouTuber, but with your regular shopping instead of cash.
How You Can Help
The best creators use affiliate links thoughtfully. They only recommend products they genuinely like or that fit their values. And they’re upfront about it, saying something like:
“If you buy through this link, I’ll earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you).”
Next time you’re about to buy something a creator recommended, use their link instead of Googling it yourself. It’s a small action that makes a big difference for them — and helps keep the internet full of good, creative work.
But choose to support creators with your values! If you use affiliate links or discount codes from creators whose views don't align with yours, that's a vote for their policies. Seek out creators who are clear about where they stand. If it's not easy to find, chances are they may not align with you. Stay away!
And if you really want to stick it to the man…
but can't completely avoid Amazon (or another big chain)
Choose a creator's link, and make it your Amazon bookmarked link. Every time you shop there – or at any big store – at least part of your purchase is going to help someone you like and support. We may not get much out of it, but every little bit helps!
Here’s my Amazon.com shop if you want to bookmark it! Then buy ANYTHING on Amazon — in my shop or elsewhere. I will still get a small commission.
Brands I have Worked with this Year & Recommend
I am very particular about which brands I work with, and I walk away from good money every month. I refuse to work with companies with iffy values. My primary exception is Amazon, full disclosure, but my monthly residuals from them won't even buy a week's worth of groceries!
The companies I recommend have quality products and values aligned with my own (at least for the most part). They include:
Hoselink | Discount Code: 2025Angela | $10 off purchases of $50 or more
Crescent Garden | Discount Code: WILDREVIVAL15 | 15% off your entire purchase
Botanical Interests | Discount varies and is applied automatically
Epic Gardening | Discount varies and is applied automatically
Each link above is an affiliate link. If you purchase something from those companies using that link, I will get a small commission. And it won’t cost you a penny more.
Giving Guides
Many creators spend a lot of time putting together themed giving guides for the holidays. I have them, too! These are posts with lots of affiliate links. You can support your favorite creators while shopping their favorite products.
A word of warning: lots of creators just put as many links as possible on a guide. They aren't actually products they have seen or used. They are just products linked through their LTK affiliate site. That's the dirty secret (that's not so secret). So beware!
Personally: I don't do this. I could. But I don't. My guides are stocked with my own personal choices. And there are lots of other people out there like me. You just should know that it isn't everyone!
You’ll find all of my Giving Guides in one place!
at the close…
Holiday gifting doesn’t have to mean supporting companies whose values clash with yours. By combining affiliate links, second-hand finds, and local independent shopping, you can give meaningful, thoughtful gifts that reflect your ideals. And by knowing which brands to avoid (and why) and offering smart alternatives, you create a pathway for change through consumption.
Your wallet is powerful—each purchase (or non-purchase) sends a message. This season, let your choices reflect what you believe in. Happy ethical holiday shopping!
Cheers!
Angela
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