Tips for Supporting Local Year‑Round
Supporting local businesses isn’t just something that matters during the holidays, it’s something that strengthens our community all year long. While markets like Handpicked for the Holidays shine a spotlight on local makers in November and December, the impact of shopping local continues well beyond the festive season.
Here are some simple, meaningful ways to support local businesses year‑round and make a lasting difference in your community.
1. Shop Local Beyond the Holidays
The weeks after the holidays can be one of the quietest times for small businesses. Continuing to shop local in January and beyond helps bridge the gap between busy seasons.
Seek out local shops, studios, and online stores when you need gifts or everyday items
Keep a list of your favourite makers and check in on what they’re creating throughout the year
Choose handmade or locally produced goods when possible
Every purchase, no matter the size, contributes to someone’s livelihood.
2. Follow, Like, and Share
Supporting local doesn’t always mean spending money. Social media engagement is incredibly valuable for small businesses.
Follow your favourite local vendors on social platforms
Like, comment on, and share their posts
Tag businesses when you use or gift their products
These small actions help increase visibility and connect makers with new customers.
3. Leave Reviews and Recommendations
Word of mouth is one of the most powerful tools for local businesses.
Leave a positive review on Google, Facebook, or Etsy
Recommend local businesses to friends and family
Share your experience in community groups or conversations
A few kind words can go a long way in building trust and attracting new customers.
4. Attend Local Events and Markets
Markets, pop‑ups, workshops, and community events provide vital opportunities for small businesses to connect with customers.
Attend events throughout the year, not just during peak seasons
Bring a friend who may be discovering local markets for the first time
Engage with vendors, ask questions and learn their stories
Showing up matters, even if you’re just browsing.
5. Think Local First
Before ordering online or heading to a big‑box store, pause and consider local options.
Is there a local business that offers what you’re looking for?
Can a local maker create something custom or similar?
Would purchasing locally keep dollars circulating in your community?
Choosing local whenever possible helps build a resilient local economy.
6. Gift Local All Year Long
Birthdays, anniversaries, thank‑yous, and celebrations happen year‑round.
Choose locally made gifts for special occasions
Purchase gift cards from local businesses
Create curated gift bundles using products from multiple local vendors
Handmade gifts tell a story and support real people behind the products.
7. Support the People Behind the Business
Local businesses are run by neighbours, friends, and community members.
Be patient and kind, many small businesses are one‑person operations
Understand that handmade and local products reflect care, skill, and time
Celebrate the courage it takes to run a small business
When you support local, you’re supporting dreams, creativity, and community connection.
Supporting Local Makes a Difference
Choosing to support local year‑round helps create vibrant communities, stronger local economies, and meaningful connections between people. Every purchase, share, review, and visit matters.
At Handpicked for the Holidays, we’re proud to support local makers and encourage our community to continue shopping local, not just during the holidays, but every day of the year.
Thank you for supporting local.
