As the holidays approach, please consider giving “locally” this year. Everyone gets their hair cut. How about gift certificates from your local hair salon or barber? Gym membership? It’s appropriate for anyone thinking about health improvement. Who wouldn’t appreciate getting their car detailed? Small, locally-owned detail shops and car washes would love to sell you a gift certificate or a book of gift certificates. Perhaps that grateful gift receiver would like his driveway sealed, or lawn mowed for the summer, or driveway plowed all winter, or games at the local golf course.
There are many owner-run restaurants that offer gift certificates. If your intended isn’t the fancy eatery sort, perhaps a half-dozen breakfasts at the local breakfast joint would work. Remember, this is about supporting your home town people with their financial lives on the line to keep their doors open.
How many people couldn’t use an oil change for their car, truck or motorcycle, done at a shop run by the local working guy? Thinking about a heartfelt gift for mom? Mom would love the services of a local cleaning lady for a day. My computer could use a tune-up, and I know I can find some guy or gal who is struggling to get a repair business up and running.
Plan your holiday outings at local, owner-operated restaurants and leave your server a nice tip. And how about going out to see a play or ballet at the theatre? Musicians need love, too, so find a venue showcasing local bands. And the list goes on….. Be creative and thoughtful this year. Your community will certainly benefit from your actions.