Give Twice this Holiday Season

Winter is knocking at our door and many small businesses are keeping their fingers crossed they will make it through this one. With the tourists away and residents hunkered down in their warm homes, winter can be a slow season. There is something we can do to help them through this winter. Shop local this holiday season. When you shop local your money goes directly in to the pockets of your friends and neighbors, whom in turn spend it to pay their employees and overhead expenses. Western North Carolina have a lot to offer. This is a unique area to find handmade items you can't buy in any box store. But don't just limit your shopping to the local stores. Service related businesses are struggling as well. Buy your friend or family member a house cleaning, massage or yoga class. Gift certificates for lawn care or home repair make great presents for the hard to shop for. So pick up a beautiful mug for a coworker, a hand knitted hat for your mother, but also consider an art class for your Niece and a car wash for your Dad. Give once to a friend or a loved one, and give twice by purchasing from a small business that helps make Western North Carolina a uniquely wonderful place to live!