Shop Local This Holiday Season

Kianna Brown, Marketing Coordinator

The busiest shopping season of the year is upon us, and I’m sure if your inbox looks anything like mine, it’s full of big retailers vying for your dollars. Although it may be tempting to just order online from a big-box store or drive over to its numerous locations around town, local, small businesses are the economic and social fabric of our community. They play a big part in connecting individuals and communities, which is why the Office of Economic Vitality launched #LoveYourLocal.

Whether you visit a local favorite or try out something new, experience and explore the many local retailers, restaurants and independent small businesses right here in Tallahassee-Leon County. This year, local businesses have been faced with a number of unprecedented challenges that have hit hard, like stay-at-home orders and federal measures set to keep people safe, but many local businesses have been innovative to make supporting local easier and safer. Despite this year of uncertainty, local businesses have continued to serve the Tallahassee-Leon County community through their goods and services, so put your money where your heart is and #LoveYourLocal.

While the need to Love Your Local is most immediately obvious, the benefits of shopping local extend beyond the holiday season. By shopping locally, you are making an investment into your neighborhood and community. The money you spend locally, stays local. Supporting local could involve purchasing a coffee from a local coffee store or purchasing your Christmas tree from a local nursery, instead of Lowe’s or Home Depot, but makes a huge impact.

‘Tis the season to share joy and #LoveYourLocal Tallahassee-Leon County businesses. Loving your local could have a far-reaching impact on the community that’s beyond the holiday season. To learn more about #LoveYourLocal, visit OEVforbusiness.org/LYL.