3 minute read

iSupport: Shop Small, Shop Local

by Cassie Johnson

Whether grocery pick-up, curbside service, or retail therapy one thing is certain: We did a TON of online shopping in 2020! Pull it up on your phone, add to cart or buy now, and done. I get it, and I’m guilty as charged. While it’s extremely convenient and a safer option to avoid ‘COVID cooties’, our small businesses are feeling the effects of online shopping.

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Our area has a huge variety of locally owned stores to choose from, many of them offering online purchase options or curbside pickup. Support your favorite local stores as you check off the names on your Christmas shopping list.

Paducah Shooter’s Supply

Walk through the doors of Shooter’s and be greeted by their knowledgeable staff who is always ready to help. Family owned and operated for 37 years, you’re sure to find something for more than just outdoorsmen on your list. They carry clothing and apparel for the whole family, boots, gun safes, archery, and much more. Shooter’s has the largest selection of firearms and ammunition around.

Furkidz

For fur-kid parents on your list, surprise them with a gift card to Furkidz! The possibilities are endless, from pampering their pooch with a groomer to purchasing trendy accessories or healthy treats their pet will love. You can board dogs, cats, birds, or exotic pets for them so they won't have to worry about pet care while they're out of town. For a relaxing day off or a busy day to run errands, the gift of a doggy daycare trip will bring a smile to their face.

Rover Done Over Grooming

Rover Done Over Get your pet ready for Christmas pictures with a Rover Done Over gift certificate. Locally owned by a groomer/vet tech your dog, cat, ferret, bird, or other pets will be in great hands. Safe, comfortable, sedation grooming is also available. Located inside Paducah Veterinary Clinic, pets can conveniently get their vaccines or check-ups at the same time as their grooming session.

Sam & Ali’s Favorite Things

Newly opened, Sam & Ali’s offers unique items and brands you may not can find elsewhere. Top your holiday style off with accessories like Hammitt purses, Mariana jewelry, an Stivali shoes. Soothe your winter hands with Camille Beckman hand cream and wrap yourself in a Nordic wrap to keep warm. Wow someone with fragrances from Trapp candles and Maison Berger. A wide selection of men's gifts, Symphony Supply Offering far more than only music lessons, this is Santa’s stop for the music lovers on your list. Gifts such as ornaments, sheet music from classical to modern, and instruments from violins to the eclectic ukulele or dulcimer are ready to be wrapped and slipped under the tree. New shoulder rests, colored bows, and music stands are a musthave for any musician. Gift certificates are available for the many items in the store.

Shop Local & Make a Difference

The experience of shopping in a locally owned store is quite different than a big box store. You will be greeted with a friendly welcome, sometimes by the owner themselves. No pacing around a store searching for an associate – you will receive more personal attention (social distance style, of course) to find the gifts you’re looking for. You will feel a sense of appreciation knowing the business owner is truly grateful for each sale.

Online shopping statistics have soared to an increase of over 43.3%. Meanwhile, local businesses are trying to stay afloat. It’s important to remember when you support local businesses, you’re making a difference in our local economy and community. You are helping a parent pay for dance lessons, a restaurant owner fulfill their lifelong dream, and supporting a working family who may be struggling to make ends meet and keep their business open.

As we bid 2020 farewell with a huge sigh of relief, remember to visit your hardworking small businesses for your shopping needs. Make sure to check the social media pages or websites as COVID 19 sometimes causes last minute changes in hours. Purchase Area Family Magazine is also a small, locally owned business. We are so grateful to each of our advertisers and readers for your continued support this year. Merry Christmas and happy shopping!

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