5 Ways to Support Your Favorite Local Businesses this Holiday Season
Tis the season to be jolly.. and support your favorite local businesses! This is typically the biggest sales quarter for most companies, and let's not forget to show love for our amazing locally owned companies! How can we show our support, you may be wondering... So I came up with my 5 favorite ways to support local biz!
1. Share a post!
These local business owners put a lot of time, energy, and care into their online marketing. Take a minute to share a holiday post they made or a current sale with your friends and family online! It only takes a second to do, and helps your friend spread awareness! Your ex's sister, a former co-worker, or your Aunt Karen could be looking for that exact product or service... You never know!
2. If you got it, flaunt it!
When was the last time you purchased a product or service from a local business? Why not share your experience online! Photos are a great bonus, but sharing your authentic opinion online- whether it's on Facebook, Instagram, Google, or Yelp. Maybe someone was debating purchasing that candle, and seeing your positive review gave them the courage to 'Add to Cart.'
3. Attend an Event!
From holiday markets to tree-lighting ceremonies- 'tis the season for community events. There are farmers markets every weekend at Lake Eola, Winter Park, Winter Garden, Kissimmee, and more! Most of these events are family friendly- so bring the kids or the dogs. Grab a hot (or iced) cocoa while enjoying a stroll through a number of small businesses on display! Of course, you can always shop and sip your way around the markets too ;-)
4. Give the gift of a gift certificate!
Gift certificates are the gifts that keep on giving. Not only is it a delight to open a gift to find a certificate- but then you get to go shopping and pick out exactly what you want/need! This is a great stress-free option- no gift wrapping required. Most businesses will do e-gift cards, so you only need their email address. This is a great idea for picky gifters, teachers, and more!
5. Treat yourself!
Most of us rush around this holiday season- buying gifts here, there, and everywhere. From decorating to gift shopping and holiday wrapping to shipping holiday cards- not to mention cooking or hosting guests! We spend SO much time during the holidays treating others- don't forget to treat yourself.... and why not help support a local business at the same time!? Sounds like a win-win to me.
(Photo to the right: shirt made by U-GLO Jewelry and More)
What's our favorite way to help support local businesses during the holiday season?