Shop Smart. Shop Local.

Many of us have heard the phrases “Shop Local” or “Buy Local,” and I hope as you approach the holiday season, you have already started to think about how you can support these campaigns.

Consider shopping at local shops and restaurants for the perfect gift. We have bicycle shops and ski stores, bakeries and gift shops, and wonderful specialty stores including , , , and . What about a spa gift certificate to or ? Give a treat to teachers or neighbors from , or .

Looking for a unique item? Try shopping at the Holiday Show at on Dec. 3 and 4, or pick up gifts at the shops at or . The gift that keeps on giving would include a membership to any of the aforementioned attractions, or season tickets to , the , or to a show at the .

Or perhaps you can give the most sought after gift this holiday season–the gift of time! Grab groceries at Alcamo’s Market and some flowers at English Gardens and spend some much deserved quality time with loved ones, or meet up at your favorite restaurant for a holiday lunch or dinner and let someone else do the cooking.

The options in our own backyard are endless!

This Saturday (and beyond), support small business in your community with Small Business Saturday. Promoted by American Express, the Saturday after Thanksgiving is a day dedicated to supporting small businesses
on one of the busiest shopping weekends of the year. On Nov. 26, everyone is urged to “Shop Small” at their favorite local stores and help fuel the economy.

According to www.the350project.net, for every $100 spent in locally owned independent stores, $68 returns to the community through taxes, payroll and other expenditures. Imagine the impact if one person spent $50 in just three locally owned store this holiday.

Second to buying local here in Dearborn, try to keep your shopping dollars here in Michigan, supporting products and food made right here in our state. It is more difficult than ever to maintain a business in this economic climate and it is up to us to support our friends and neighbors here in Dearborn.

If you need recommendations or ideas, please call the chamber offices Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. at 313-584-6100. Santa’s helpers are standing by! Happy Thanksgiving and Happy Shopping!

Jennifer Giering
President, Dearborn Chamber of Commerce
www.dearbornchamber.org