SHOP LOCAL FOR THE HOLIDAYS | WAYS TO GET INVOLVED
Connect locally
t might seem like something out of
a Norman Rockwell painting, but
hitting downtown to do some
shopping really can help put you in
the Christmas spirit and provide a
deeper local connection.
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), but just
hitting the streets to do some window shopping is a
great way to bond with your family and friends.
I
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.
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.
It just feels like Christmas
Walking the streets in downtown, with a chill in
the air in November or December, as the Christmas
lights twinkle around the street lights and in the
windows, just feels quintessentially Christmas. It
evokes the visuals and emotions from classic holiday
films like Miracle on 34th Street, and is just a great
tradition to add to the Christmas season.
Remember to get 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.
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LOCAL
GIFT CARDS
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Some local stores have
started offering gift card
options for customers, be it
a rechargeable card or a gift
certificate. It makes for a
more personal gift than a
generic gift card. If you find
a store you think your loved
one would like, get a gift
card and let them enjoy
shopping and picking out
their favorite item.
OR A COFFEE SHOP
A $20 or $30 gift card
can stretch a good distance
at a coffee house or bakery.