Locals Only

In case you missed it, November 27th was declared "Small Business Saturday" -- a new day of holiday shopping nestled in between Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Apparently, American Express and other advocacy groups instituted the day in order to create jobs and boost the economy in neighborhoods across the country. Of course, everyone involved hopes this bump in business continues throughout the year.


Thinking about Small Business Saturday made me realize something about myself...I am passionate about small, local businesses. For starters, I relish the opportunity to purchase unique items, which are usually not found at malls and big box stores. On this same note, I feel the merchandise is often carefully curated by the owner. Next, I enjoy the relationship between the salesperson (sometimes the owner!) and myself. There are professional recommendations, a "back story" about an item, and, at times, some life stories mixed in. Once and awhile, the shopkeeper even knows the names of three out of my four children! ;) And, the best for last ~ these special shops generally offer a special way of gift wrapping their items!! (time saved on my end ~ heaven!)


I could go on and on, but I won't. What I will tell you is this --> yesterday, I did take a stroll through the independent shops in my neighborhood and start my Christmas shopping in earnest. Without giving away too many secrets, I found charming, thoughtful gifts for many people on my list. The gift to myself was the sights and sounds of Main Street USA on a brisk, fall day with a slight hint of Christmas in the air.


Hope your Thanksgiving was happy...gobble, gobble.


tb