You may be looking for ways to support your community during this pandemic. Some are spreading random acts of kindness, and others want to focus on all the local businesses they love. Or even better, spend time and money on both! As the holiday season fastly approaches, there’s no better time than no to start planning your holiday shopping. And this year, it’s even more important to shop at your local shops to help give back to your community.
If you’ve already started to think of what you’d like to get your loved ones this year, brainstorm local businesses you could get these items from! Not only could this help out small businesses in need, but it could also add a special touch to the gifts you’ll be handing out.
How to Shop Small Businesses
Shopping small businesses may require more of a strategy. But lucky, the world of social media and eCommerce may play in your favor. While shopping small, you most likely still don’t have to leave your couch. Here are three different ways to support your local businesses throughout this season.
#1. Swap Your Store-Bought Holiday Cards
Starting with the famous holiday card! Instead of getting cards from a Hallmark store, look up different creators on Etsy, or Instagram in your area. You may be able to buy bulk or handpick each card for each loved one depending on your needs. This could add a little spark to your gift and may even stand out in the crowd of other cards send their way.
#2. Send Gift Cards of Your Favorite Local Brands
For those you may have no idea what to purchase for them, buy them a gift card! Even if your loved one lives out of the range of the town you live in, most e-commerce stores will ship to their area. Before you purchase the gift card, be sure to do your research and ensure they have an online storefront. If they do, purchase a gift card and send it their way!
#3. Shop Throughout the Year
It’s no doubt that handmade items can be a little pricey, but you’re paying for the quality. Instead of going all out the month before the holiday season, consider spacing out your purchases. Ensure you’re checking in on your budget and plan out your purchases from month to month. This can put your stress at ease and better prepare you for the holiday season ahead!
How to Show Your Support
Now, you may want to show your support and love for the businesses you cherish the most. While you may swing by the store and visit your favorite businesses here and there, there are some additional ways you can show your support. And some of showing your support doesn’t have to cost a penny! Here’s how:
#4. Share Your Favorite Products
Go on social media and share your favorite products. This could be done on Instagram stories, or even a post to go on your feed. Be sure to tell your audience why you like this item and how you use it. Don’t forget to tag the company in your post to ensure the company and your followers know exactly where to go or what to do with your post.
#5. Write a Positive Review
Positive words can go a long way. Go on Google, Yelp, or even Reddit to share kind words about your favorite local businesses. You could share a past positive experience you had, or even your favorite staff member that made your experience memorable. Go the extra mile and share this to your stories so your followers are able to see it!
#6. Refer a Friend
Some companies will actually offer referral credit! But even if they don’t still share your favorites with your loved ones! Share your favorite products with your friends and family and tell them to go check them out. If you and your loved ones feel comfortable, considering going shopping together to pick out your new favorite items!
How to Keep in Touch
To keep up with sales and events going on in your area, follow your favorite businesses on social media. Sometimes, businesses will actually offer exclusive discounts to loyal customers. Here’s how you can stay in the loop:
#7. Sign-Up for Newsletters
If your favorite small business has a website, they more than likely has an email newsletter you could sign up for. Most commonly, these can be found on a pop-up when you visit their site, or somewhere at the bottom of their website homepage. Go on over and sign up for email blasts that will share new items, tips, and exclusive discounts.
#8. Follow and Interact Via Social Media
Now, the most common, following accounts on social media! Whenever your favorite brand shares a post you’re particularly excited about, add it to your story as well! For instance, any holiday discounts you think your followers would be interested in, add it to your story so they can purchase it as well.
#9. Swing by the Shop Every So Often
As for your own support, be sure to swing by the shop every few months. You may be able to find gifts or other items that fit perfectly into your budget. Be sure to chat it up with their team and grow your network! Who knows, they may be able to support you and your dreams later down the line as well.
As you show your support for local businesses, be sure to shout them out on social media. Spread the love and awareness for all your favorite brands for all your loved ones to see. Who knows, your followers may end up liking your favorite businesses just as much as you do!
About the Author!
Kayla Montgomery is a digital content marketer who helps Mint create helpful and compelling stories worth sharing. Her background in digital marketing and creative writing has led her to cover unique topics ranging from business to lifestyle. In her spare time, she enjoys working out, writing for her own blog, traveling, and exploring all the in’s and out’s Austin, TX has to offer. To learn more, connect with Kayla on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayla-s-montgomery/
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