Shop Local Spotlight

For a Stree-Free Christmas Shop Local

A recent editorial in the New York Times said, “Forget Amazon. The best gifts are closer than you think.” That’s just one reason to do your shopping closer to home. Shopping locally has many advantages over shopping online, like a lot more of your money stays here in our community. Also, local businesses are the ones who are constantly hit on throughout the year to give to local causes and organizations. If we don’t support local now, it’s not likely they will be able to help you out much later on. It just works that way. I don’t think I’ve ever heard of Amazon or Etsy or the like donating to a local cause.

Shopping local is way better than purchasing online; that’s why MainStreet DeLand has its “Brick Before You Click” promotion. For a stress-free Christmas, shop local. When you make your purchases, you get to take them home with you. There’s no need to worry about how many cargo ships are backed up or how many more truckers are needed.

Shopping local and small is your best bet! Of course, you could shop locally in a big box store, lots of people do. And if large crowds and self-service check-out appeal to you, there are plenty of big box stores to choose from. But if you’re looking to really support local and find something unique this Holiday season, shopping small is your best stress-free option.

Spread the joy in your community by shopping small. Enjoy this Christmas by supporting your community and your favorite independent retailers. Forget Amazon. The best gifts are closer than you think!

Wayne Carter Executive Director MainStreet DeLand Association www.mainstreetdeland.org Phone: 386-738-0649