Shop Local- You won't regret it !

Mom's gift!! LOVE IT, but I had to blur it out
 because I don't want to give it away...

This year I have decided ALL of my Christmas gifts will either be bought locally or contribute to a charity. I am SO passionate about this topic. The meaning of CHRISTmas been lost and in doing so small town business have been handed a large slap in the face. So me, being the little activist I am, set out shopping on Black Friday with one sole purpose in mind- spending time with Marissa and Mom. Today on the other hand was set aside for SHOPPING, SHOPPING, SHOPPING!!! Did you know that the Saturday after Black Friday is called Small Business Saturday? Yup, check out their facebook page!

I scooped up today.
I love all of my gifts. 

I urge you to buy local this year for Christmas. Here are a few tips:

• If you don't know what shops are local then "google" your local Chamber of Commerce and see what their directory has to offer. There are often small "Ma n Pa" shops that are over looked. 
• While on their site see what specials they may have to offer. Often the small businesses will work together and have a "Downtown Open-House" type of event. 
•  Don't be afraid to call the Chamber! My sister, Marissa, works at the local Chamber and loves knowing that people are interested in shopping down town. 
• I would suggest going with few expectations. Let the items come to you. I know, I sound like a hipster when I say that. But seriously, the items often found in these stores are so unique and I doubt you would ever dream them up on your own.
• Go with a friend, and don't give yourself a time limit. 
• Plan to go to a local bakery when you need a shopping revival.
• Walk though all the shops first, then buy on the second round through the stores. There is no reason to commit to a gift when you don't know what's around the corner. 
• Stop in ANTIQUE shops. Vintage is SO IN!
• Make it a tradition and keep each other accountable to shopping locally.

Enough reading, here are a few images of my fun Small Business Saturday. I hope you are inspired :)

Well if this doesn't get you in the Christmas
spirit I don't know what will!

One of the beautiful shoppes I walked through.

Nativity scenes are my favorite. :)

Such a cute shop!!

More enchanting than Wal-Mart folks. Am I right?

SO precious inside.

Found Mom's gift for 30% off. I caught a quick picture of the gift being finished.

Hmmm... Just as I posted! They are hosting an Open-House!

I would consider my last picture to be the best buy of the day. I found many spices that were not only sold locally, but made locally! WHAT'S UP!?! CHA-CHING! My brother-in-law is going to love this!