It is that time of year again, the holidays are almost here. We all know that with the holidays comes plenty of gift-giving. This year, it’s clear that the holidays will be looking a bit different. With the COVID-19 pandemic still an issue, we may not be celebrating the way we’re used to. A way to help celebrate the holidays this year and show your loved ones- from a distance- that you love and miss them is shopping from small businesses.
Everyone has been hurt by the pandemic in one way or another, and people are beginning to crave a form of normalcy. This year I’ve noticed that people are bringing the holidays to them earlier than usual. I remember when people would say that Christmas trees should not be put up until after Thanksgiving. But with everything so crazy this year, I have started to notice neighbors putting up Christmas decorations in their yard and getting their trees ready. Celebrating earlier and creating some form of joy seems to be helping people right now. The holidays are something we look forward to every year. It’s the time where the people we care about come together, laugh, and make memories. Because of everything going on, we are not going to be able to celebrate the ways we usually do. There might not be Christmas dinners together or opening gifts at a family member’s house and all of the traditions that we look forward to may have to be carried on over Zoom, but that doesn’t mean that you cannot show people that you love them and have been thinking about them.
We’re all starting to think about what gifts we will be getting others for the holidays. Something unique and personal to let them know that you really care. It can be difficult to find these types of presents in a large retail store, because they sell the same thing to everyone. If you’re looking for a new way to spread love during this unprecedented holiday season, get your loved ones a gift from a small business. Small businesses offer more unique products than retailers are able to carry. You can get something engraved or order a custom piece from small businesses. It’s important that while we spread love and joy during the holidays, we also do our best to help those who need it.
Small businesses have been hit hard during this pandemic. They’ve had to close their doors because their sales have plummeted. However, many small businesses are operating online, so you’re still able to shop from them and support them. These businesses have not been given the help that they need to survive much longer. You can help them by doing your holiday shopping with a small business. Not only will you be helping local businesses, but you will be able to get a more unique gift for someone you care about. It’s important that we all support each other during these difficult times and shopping small can be a way you help.
This year, I’m making sure that I do all my holiday shopping through small businesses. I want to be able to help those around me as much as I can. And since I was going to be buying gifts anyway, why wouldn’t I take the opportunity to buy from businesses that are struggling? So, while you’re thinking about what you should get your parents or your best friend for the holidays, keep small businesses in mind. There’s definitely a shop out there that has what you are looking for, and even more unique items that you can’t find anywhere else.