Instead of giving your money to the same chain stores and restaurants this Christmas, consider making a commitment to buy local during the Christmas shopping season. Here are some local businesses that can be found in most areas that deserve more than a drive-by glance this holiday shopping season.
Browse Books at a Locally Owned Book Store
Local book stores will often carry books by regional authors. If you call for the upcoming schedule, you may even get to attend a book signing. There is no better Christmas gift than a personalized copy of a book. Alternatively, you could be thrifty and shop at a local used book store. Get a mystery lover a whole stack of mystery novels or pick up a set of popular children’s books for very little money.
Find Christmas Treasures at a Local Hobby Shop
Hobby shops are still generally small, locally owned stores. They are a treasure trove of interesting gifts for young and old. Model trains, collectable cards, model airplanes and cars, toy rockets, and science kits can all be found at most hobby shops.
Find Christmas Ornaments and Unusual Gifts at Local Gift Shops
Almost every town has a locally owned gift shop. These stores are often quaint and filled to the brim with holiday ornaments, decorations and unusual gifts. The best of local gift shops will sell crafts and artwork made by local artisans. Gift shops are a great place to find a wide range of Christmas gifts -- from cookbooks to jewelry.
Shop for Christmas Gifts at the Local Hardware Store
For the men in your life, skip the big box hardware stores. Instead, search the local hardware store for Christmas gifts. Locally owned hardware stores are all but extinct. If you still have one in your area, support it by shopping for holiday gifts for all the handy people you know. If you can’t find anything, consider a gift certificate that will help bring more business back to the local owner.
Take a Christmas Shopping Break at a Locally Owned Restaurant
Whether you live in the north, south, east or west, you probably eat at the same restaurants as those on the other side of the country. Step off the beaten path and choose a locally owned restaurant for your holiday shopping lunch break. You’ll find delicious food, locally inspired décor and may be greeted by the actual business owner.
For more Christmas shopping ideas read Plan Ahead for a Frugal Christmas: Save Money on Gifts this Holiday Season.
