Why You Should Support Local Small Businesses This Holiday Season

The holiday season is upon us, bringing with it festive cheer, endless shopping lists, and the perfect opportunity to make a difference. While big-box retailers and online giants dominate the holiday rush, there’s something truly special about supporting local small businesses during this magical time of year. Not only does it feel good, but it also makes sense—for your community, your economy, and even your gift recipients.

Let’s dive into why supporting small businesses this holiday season is a win-win (and yes, it’s better than waiting for another big sale from a faceless corporation).

The Case for Shopping Local

Supporting local businesses isn’t just trendy—it’s impactful. Here’s what happens when you choose to shop local instead of with large chain retailers:

1. Boosts Your Local Economy
   Studies show that for every $100 spent at a local business, approximately $68 stays within your community compared to just $43 when spent at national chains. This translates to better schools, improved infrastructure, and thriving neighborhoods.

2. Creates Jobs in Your Community
   Small businesses account for 64% of new job creation in the U.S. economy. By spending your dollars locally, you’re helping your neighbors stay employed and keeping the community strong.

3. Preserves Unique Character
   No one wants their town to feel like "Anytown, USA." Local businesses add personality and charm to a community, offering unique gifts, handmade goods, and one-of-a-kind experiences that national retailers just can’t compete with.

4. Supports Real People
   Shopping local means supporting families, not faceless corporations. When you buy from a small business, you’re helping someone pay their mortgage, fund their kids’ education, and reinvest in the community.

The Holiday Gift That Keeps on Giving

Think about it: Would your loved one prefer a mass-produced gadget or a thoughtfully crafted, locally made gift? Shopping local means you can:

• Discover unique and meaningful gifts tailored to your recipients’ personalities.
• Build a stronger connection to your community through your purchases.
• Avoid the holiday shipping fiascos (we’ve all seen those "delayed until January" notices).

Highlights: Why Shopping Local Wins

• Economic Impact: More of your money stays in your community.
• Job Creation: Local businesses fuel job growth.
• Sustainability: Fewer shipping miles and less packaging waste.
• Personalized Service: Small business owners care about YOU, not just their bottom line.
• Unique Finds: Locally made gifts have a story and heart behind them.

The Smart Holiday Strategy

Here’s how to incorporate more local shopping into your holiday plans:

1. Explore Local Markets and Events
   Holiday markets, craft fairs, and pop-ups are treasure troves of unique gifts. Bonus: You’re supporting artists and entrepreneurs directly.

2. Use Online Platforms for Local Shopping
   Websites like LocalWe.com make it easy to find small businesses in your area or discover artisans from across the country. You can shop locally without even leaving your couch.

3. Commit to a “Shop Local Challenge”
   Challenge yourself to buy at least 50% of your holiday gifts from small businesses. You’ll be surprised how easy—and satisfying—it is.

4. Gift Experiences
   Many local businesses offer experiences like cooking classes, brewery tours, or handmade workshops. These make unforgettable gifts while supporting your community.

The Big Picture

Every dollar you spend is a vote for the kind of world you want to live in. By shopping small, you’re not only finding thoughtful gifts but also investing in your community’s future. This holiday season, let’s put our money where our hearts are and make a lasting impact.

So go ahead, skip the big-box chaos, and opt for the warmth and charm of your local small businesses. Because when you shop local, everyone wins—especially during the holidays.

Want to get started? Check out LocalWe.com to discover small businesses that make holiday shopping joyful, meaningful, and impactful.

Happy shopping—and happy holidays!