SHOP LOCAL FOR THE HOLIDAYS | GET INTO THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT
connect locally
It might seem like something out of a Norman Rock-
well painting, but hitting downtown to do some shopping
really can help put you in the Christmas spirit and pro-
vide a deeper connection with your local surroundings.
Most towns decorate the downtown streets, and many
shops do holiday-themed window displays to attract
shoppers. Yes, you should spend some money while
you’re out (it helps the local economy, after all), but just
hitting the streets to do some window shopping is a great
way to bond with your family and friends during Christmas.
Make it a family bonding experience
Even if you don’t actually pick up any gifts while the
kids (or spouse) are with you, hitting the local stores to
scout out gift options is a great way to just spend some
time with your family. Tell your kids stories about unique
finds in the antique store, or let them make a list of gift
options while perusing the aisles at a downtown general
store.
If you’re shopping for adults, it can also give you a
chance to glance into local downtown boutiques.
Hit the streets
When you’re ramping up your Christmas shopping
strategy, set aside a Saturday, or afternoon, to park (or
walk, if you’re close enoughinto your closest shopping
district and start exploring. You might find a store you’ve
never seen, or at least make an effort to visit a store you
don’t frequent very often. It’s a great chance to look for
unique gifts, while also getting to know your own town a
little bit better.
It just feels like Christmas
Walking the streets in downtown, with a chill in the air
in November or December, as the Christmas lights twin-
kle around the street lights and in the windows, just feels
quintessentially Christmas. It evokes the visuals and emo-
tions from classic holiday films like Miracle on 34th
Street, and is just a great tradition to add to the Christmas
season.
local gift cards
If you’re totally stumped for a gift selection, there’s nothing wrong with snagging a gift card
and tossing it in a greeting card. There’s no rule that says you have to buy a card from a chain
restaurant or big box store. Think local for an easy gift solution.
Check local shops
Some local stores have started offering gift card options for customers, be it a rechargeable
card or just a gift certificate signed by the manager. Regardless, it can make for a more personal
gift than just a generic gift card. If you find a store you think your loved one would really like
but can’t find the perfect gift, just get a gift card and let them enjoy shopping and picking out
their favorite items on your dime. A gift card to a local store can be a much more personal gift,
and it also takes some of the guesswork out of gift-buying. Plus, it supports a local business.
Don’t forget restaurants
Most local restaurants also offer gift cards, and a free lunch is a great gift. Aim high on this
one; pick out a place you really think they’ll like, and let them indulge with a nice meal as a
gift from you.
Coffee shops, bakeries
If you want to offer a bit more of a snack, pick up a gift certificate to a local coffee shop or
bakery, Just make sure the place is good (maybe test out a few pastries before you pick up the
card). A $20 or $30 gift card can stretch a good distance at a coffee house or bakery.
4 • HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS 2016 • WWW.DAILYASTORIAN.COM
use cash
One important step to
remember before heading
into town and hitting all
those lovely, local shops
to buy Christmas gifts:
Hit up the ATM first.
Shopping with cash has
myriad benefits, but it can
really be a huge help for
small businesses around
the holidays.
It’s so much easier to
know what you’re spend-
ing when you can literally
look at the cash in your
wallet or purse. Pull out
what you’ve budgeted for
gift-buying and get to
shopping. By setting your
limit and not bringing any
extra cash with you, it can
help you stay focused
while shopping and help
you stay on budget.