The holiday season is upon us! But with all the festive family activities, good food and time off comes the shopping, wrapping, shipping and gift-giving season (that sometimes feels like it never ends)!
For some, gift giving is a language in and of itself, and for many of us, this time of year wouldn’t be the same without the pile of presents and stockings full of trinkets.
The U.S. Census Bureau estimated that a whopping $964.4 billion was spent on holiday shopping in 2023 alone. Only a fraction of that incredible number has the potential to completely change individual lives and whole communities, towns and cities.
When you’re doing your shopping this season, consider switching from big box chains to small businesses in your community.
Small business owners are everyday people just trying to make a living doing something that they love and care about. Most small business owners aren’t billionaires or even millionaires, just honest people that try to make a difference in their community.
Small businesses are staples in local communities. They provide goods and services that are handcrafted, not mass produced by machinery in countries on the other side of the planet.
When you spend your money at a local business, that money goes directly back into your local community, instead of big corporations and executives that you’ve never heard of. That money directly impacts the small business owner and their employees.
I know it’s tempting to hit “buy now” and have your shopping done with a few clicks, but that big name online retailer generates lots of plastic shipping waste, plus shipping costs extra money and delays in the shipping process could mean your gift doesn’t arrive in time for the holiday season.
Instead, consult your wish-list and see if there are any local businesses that offer similar products. If not, try searching on sites like Etsy for products made by artisans and small businesses.
If you’re at a loss for gift ideas, a gift card to a local business is a great way to support local industry while supporting your community as well.
If you’re in the Northeast Pennsylvania area, here are some local businesses you can support this holiday season!
Lynn Sandy’s Bakery
Located in South Scranton, Lynn Sandy’s Bakery creates custom, made-to-order cakes and baked goods. With a variety of treats and flavors, a baked good or a gift certificate is perfect for the sweet-tooth in your life!
Giving Tree Wellness Center
Do you know someone who deserves a little rest and relaxation? Give them a visit to the Giving Tree Wellness Center! Book them a massage, a gentle workout class or a gift card for a treat in their cafe!
Fork N Bowl
Everyone knows and loves a foodie! (Maybe the foodie is you!) For the person in your life who loves a good meal and won’t shut up about it, a gift card for Fork N Bowl is the perfect option! Fork N Bowl prides itself on being totally gluten free and full of fresh ingredients, making it perfect for your favorite food aficionados.
Freedlove
Stumped on what to buy your niece/daughter/sister/mom/aunt that has everything? Pick up a cozy scarf or sweater at Freedlove, a locally owned boutique! A simple, cute and cozy piece of clothing is perfect for any fashionista in your life!
Little Wild Refillery
Everyone needs soap, shampoo and hygiene products. You may as well support a sustainable and locally owned business when purchasing your body care needs! Little Wild Refillery sells products that are environmentally friendly and smell great too.
Scranton Running Company
For the athlete in your life, good running shoes make all the difference. The Scranton Running Company personalizes running shoes for a one-of-a-kind experience. In addition to custom shoes, the company also offers training programs to get you in shape for your first marathon or 5K.
Even by supporting one or two local businesses this holiday season, you are helping to make a positive impact on your community and sharing some awesome gifts in the process.
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