Small businesses are people we know + experiences we love + places we want to keep around.
Vacant storefronts aren't really....that appealing. Make sure you aren't contributing to closing doors by driving out of town to spend at the chains.
Spread the love all around your community with your dollars that work to supporting local families, owners and artists.
Save yourself from the "nightmare before Christmas" when your only options could be a handful of big box stores.
Give better gifts this year while keeping talented craftspeople and artists in business. Products more expensive? Depends on your perspective; are you going for a whole bunch of cheap stuff from the dollar store OR one beautifully crafted product of real value? (Trust me, most of us would opt for a single, more memorable item)
Gift meaningfully - buy items which are useful, locally produced and available at independent retailers.
Look around your neighborhood. See places you would hate to lose? That's what you can help avoid by shopping where you live.
Real people are out there running companies right in your neighborhood. Wouldn't you want to keep your spending at home?
Choose wisely this season, because ignoring your independent businesses CAN and DOES lead to store closings and vacant shop windows. Who wants to wake up one day and look around at a town filled with generic chain stores and restaurants? Not me.
Actions speak louder. Please don't just TALK ABOUT it or say "oh, we really should shop small this year" - plan to get out there and spread the love for your independents this December - because your choices DO matter.
