It's that special time of the year when our community comes together to show our support for local businesses. As the holiday season gets into full swing, you may often come across the phrase "shop small." But what does it truly entail? Shopping small means choosing to buy from local, smaller businesses, either in-store or online, rather than opting for large retailers. In a broader context, it signifies the act of nurturing our community by keeping our spending within it. This not only has a positive impact but also adds a delightful element of enjoyment to the shopping experience!
Here are 5 Reasons you should shop small this holiday season!
You get unique shopping experiences - need help finding the perfect gift? Want to create something special? Need help wrapping? Small businesses offer these unique and helpful shopping experiences! You will not find these services in large retail stores.
You create memories and traditions with your family and friends - Special memories aren’t created just anywhere - choose to shop in our historic downtown where brick buildings line the streets and house so many of our friendly local businesses. Take pictures with the trains downtown, grab lunch while you shop, and visit a new business! It's not only enjoyable, but it might also mark the beginning of a new shopping tradition for you!
You find hand-crafted and unique products - Numerous local businesses are either founded by or lend their support to local artists, craftsmen, and creators. This means you can discover one-of-a-kind, hand-crafted, or locally-sourced products and services that are simply unavailable elsewhere!
You encourage the entrepreneurial spirit of our community - Supporting small businesses means supporting the dreams of our local entrepreneurs. These businesses are started by your friends, family, or neighbors who have a passion for their work and contribute to a vibrant business ecosystem. Let’s make sure our community is the best place to follow your dream!
You make an impact on the community - Supporting small businesses in person or online means you keep your dollars circulating within our local economy. Buying local keeps sales-tax dollars within our county, supporting the wellness of our Laramie community. Revenue captured locally supports city services such as parks, road and water infrastructure, as well as our local fire and police departments - your dollars go further when you keep them local!
This holiday season, we extend a warm invitation to embrace the happiness, influence, and enthusiasm that comes with shopping locally during Small Business Weekend and beyond.
~ Your Small Business Champions: Laramie Main Street, Laramie Plains Civic Center, and Visit Laramie