So, are you supporting your local businesses?? I used to drive to the city 1-2 times per week for things, but in an effort to decrease spending on gas and reduce the amount of miles I drive each week, I have started wandering into local businesses and visiting local farmer's markets to find what I need. I am so impressed by some of the shops!! Besides discovering lots of super cute shops, I am surprised at how many items they sell that are made in Iowa too! Sure, they may be a little more pricey than something similar you can buy in a big box retailer, but it's worth spending a little more to know you are supporting fellow Iowans!
I was in one of my new favorite stores, called re:home in Winterset (if you love repurposed items for house décor, definitely put this place on your list!!!!..as well as all the other super cute shops in Winterset), when I overheard a lady say she was from a town about 40 miles away. She stated that her town used to have lots of little cute shops like this one, but they all went out of business when Wal-mart came to town. This is so sad. Yes, Wal-mart is cheap and convenient...but everything they sell is made in China (okay I made that up). Aren't we being better citizens of our communities if we take the time to visit our local shops and make similar purchases there....plus your item will likely be of better quality, depending on what you are buying.
In addition to brick-and-mortar stores, what about supporting local artists/crafy-people who make their items in home and sell them on their personal websites, facebook pages, and/or etsy.com?? I know tons of people who fall into these categories...everyone from cake makers, baby items, jewelry makers, scarf makers, hat knitters, painters, wine makers, etc. If you need it, I might know someone local who makes it. How about buying produce from farm stands or farmer's markets? Beef from a farmer? What about buying local wines and beers??
Let's even talk about restaurants. My husband and I were just talking the other day about how tough the restaurant biz must be since so many seem to come and go (specifically we were talking about Hooters being taken out by Twin Peaks). We rarely ever dine out, but when we do....it's usually a local joint. Those are our tried and true favorites. Besides, the lines are always so long and the prices so much higher at chain restaurants. Been to the Hitchin' Post lately??? (see exit 56 on I-35 South)
We also have been trying to use more local service businesses. I just dropped my national bank for a local one. We hired a local company to clean our carpets...which also came from a local company...as did the rest of our flooring, an appliance, and countertop (Shop Royal Flooring in Altoona!!! and soon to be in Urbandale). We are looking into some local painting businesses as well. It's fun to keep our money local and know that we are keeping someone employed! Plus, our experience with local services is that they take better care of you!
The next time you need to buy a gift, or request a service, try visiting a local shop that you have never been in before...it may just become your favorite!! You don't want it to go out of business before you even have a chance to check it out (that happened to me a couple of times and made me sad). Do your part as a citizen of your community and shop local to help keep the money in your community and your fellow neighbors employed :)
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