Shop Local This Holiday Season Holiday Shopping is in full swing, and while online purchases continue to thrive, Tampa Bay streets are getting packaged again, with more people visiting stores and shopping face to face than last year. Even though COVID19 is not entirely behind us, and in certain parts of the world, the numbers continue to rise, Tampa natives, tourists, and snowbirds alike seem to be ready to be out and about and celebrate big this holiday season. During the pandemic, online shopping became the norm. I cannot deny it was fast, convenient, and safe, but was it more affordable, and enjoyable? Not necessarily. Online shopping doesn’t always mean better price or better quality, so beware. I have never been a big fan of online shopping, and I usually end up returning most items. Don’t you miss interacting with real people? Touching things and trying them on to make sure you like them? But mainly, having someone offer their assistance in helping you find that unique gift for that special person? I enjoy being out socializing, and especially during the Holidays. You can feel magic in the air! The whole month of December is full of extraordinary, family-friendly events for you to enjoy. Many stores bring out their holiday merchandise and offer fantastic deals. Most local parks are beautifully decorated with lights and
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festive motives. Markets and arts and craft festivals with amazing vendors and blocks full of locally hand-made products will blow your mind! At Tampa Bay News and Lifestyles, we’re all about supporting local! And this month (and always), I encourage you to visit locallyowned shops, where you can find incredibly unique gifts for your loved ones while supporting your own neighbors, friends, and your community members. Multiple Tampa Bay News and Lifestyles advertisers are already offering fabulous deals and spectacular Holiday specials that will last throughout the rest of the year. Whether you’re shopping for clothes, jewelry, wine and spirits, beauty and personal care, sporting equipment or outdoor living, cooking ware, restaurant gift cards, or even a brand new home, you can find your perfect gift right in your neighborhood! Please browse through this and our other digital issues online, and find your perfect gift today! I wish you the best of the season. A healthy and happy holiday and a chance to reflect, recharge and reconnect with your loved ones. Remember always how blessed you are and all the reasons you have to feel thankful for and to celebrate. Until next year, see you in 2022!
Carla M. Dubis Tedeschi. DECEMBER 2021 5
