Shop small to have a big impact during the holiday season.
Show your local businesses how much they mean to you with the gift of your support this holiday season.
Think out-of-the-(gift)-box with these four ideas.
- Make the season merry. Think about how you can bolster local businesses and spread holiday cheer at the same time. Hire a light-hanging business to bedazzle your home, ask your local liquor store to host a wine tasting party, or commission a family holiday portrait (ugly sweaters required) from a local photographer. Not only will the businesses benefit, but your neighbors, friends, and family!
- Mark Small Business Saturday on your calendar. The Saturday after Thanksgiving (November 27) is the 12th annual nationwide Small Business Saturday, a day to celebrate your favorite small businesses and make a difference in your community. Whether you shop online or in-person, consider this day a ceremonial kickoff to your holiday shopping.
- Get creative with gift cards. Buy gift cards for local restaurants and coffee shops – establishments where the recipient can choose to take-out or drive through if they want. If you purchase gift cards for services like a massage or a pedicure, ask about expiration dates so if your loved one isn't comfortable using them now they can postpone the experience until a later time.
- Use your local Chamber of Commerce as a resource. Visit your local Chamber of Commerce website to see listings of small businesses and initiatives that are underway to promote local shopping.
Remember: Shop small to have a big impact on your community this holiday season!