Black Friday has become the biggest shopping day of the year — a time when inboxes overflow, deals pop up by the minute, and carts fill up fast. But for many conscious consumers, it can feel overwhelming. How do you take advantage of the best deals without buying into overconsumption and waste?
At John Hanly & Co., we believe there’s a more mindful way to shop Black Friday — one that values craftsmanship, quality, and longevity over quick trends. If you’re looking to shop with intention this year, here’s how to make the most of Black Friday the sustainable way.
1. Start with a Plan
Before the sales begin, take a moment to pause and plan. Ask yourself:
- What do I really need or want to gift?
- Are there investment pieces I’ve been waiting to purchase?
- What would bring long-term value to my wardrobe or home?
Creating a thoughtful shopping list helps avoid impulse buys and ensures you invest in pieces you’ll treasure for years to come.
Tip: At John Hanly, our products are made in small batches. If you’ve had your eye on a particular scarf, throw, or cape — add it to your list now so you’re ready when our Black Friday prices drop.
2. Choose Quality Over Quantity
Sustainable shopping isn’t about buying nothing — it’s about buying better. Instead of filling your cart with fast fashion finds, focus on pieces that are:
- Ethically made
- Crafted from natural fibres
- Designed to last
Wool, for instance, is biodegradable, renewable, and extremely durable. Our throws and scarves are made using 100% wool — lambswool, cashmere blends, mohair and merino — woven right here in our Irish mill using traditional methods that have stood the test of time.
3. Support Independent & Local Brands
Black Friday is dominated by big-box retailers and global conglomerates — but it doesn’t have to be. Choosing to shop small and local means:
- Supporting real artisans and skilled craftspeople
- Keeping traditional industries alive
- Making a real impact with your purchase
At John Hanly, we’ve been weaving in Tipperary since 1893. When you shop with us, you support fifth-generation Irish weaving and help ensure that craft lives on for the next generation.
Did you know? Every one of our scarves and blankets begins life on a loom powered by renewable energy from our onsite hydroelectric turbine — a tradition we’re proud to continue since 1903.
4. Buy Gifts They’ll Actually Use (and Keep Forever)
Fast gifts are often forgotten by New Year’s Day. Sustainable gifting means choosing items that are both useful and beautiful. Think:
- A classic merino wool scarf in their favourite colour
- A lambswool blanket for cosy nights by the fire
- A luxurious cashmere throw that adds warmth and elegance to any space
These are gifts that not only delight on Christmas morning, but that are used and loved for many seasons to come.
5. Shop Small Batches Early
Shopping early means: Sustainably made products are often limited in quantity. At John Hanly, we don’t mass-produce — and once a particular weave is gone, it’s often gone for good.
- Getting your hands on your favourite pieces
- Avoiding disappointment later
- Ensuring timely delivery — especially important for gifts!
Bonus: This also means fewer returns and less shipping waste — another tick for sustainability.
6. Skip the Guilt — and the Waste
When you choose consciously crafted goods, you’re not just shopping — you’re investing. You’re choosing products that don’t need replacing every year. That reduce waste. That age gracefully.
And for those who want to go a step further:
- Reuse packaging where possible
- Choose gift wrapping you can repurpose
- Opt for digital gift cards when unsure
John Hanly packaging is simple, recyclable, and designed to be as low-impact as possible — because good design considers the environment too.
In Summary…
Black Friday doesn’t have to mean a shopping frenzy. With a little planning, it can be a chance to invest in thoughtful pieces, support artisan makers, and bring joy — without the compromise.
So this year, skip the throwaway trends and shop for pieces with heart, history and heritage.
Black Friday at John Hanly
This Black Friday, we’ll be offering limited-time prices on some of our most loved pieces — crafted from pure Irish wool and made to last.
Stay tuned as we reveal what’s coming. In the meantime, why not make a list of your favourites or explore our newest collections?
Scarves & Capes – New Arrivals
Throws & Blankets – New Arrivals
Caps & Hats – New Arrivals
Explore Our Latest Offers
