Shopping Locally and Keeping Your Dollar At Home

I wrote this article for my "other blog", but I think it's important enough to share here, too.  While I do reference North Carolina specifically, it is just as important for you to support your local businesses!  Do your best to keep your dollar where you live!

Black Friday and How You Can (And Should) Shop Locally

Well, it's two weeks until Black Friday.   You know what that means... long lines, anxiety, hurry up and wait, trying to get everything done, knowing that your deadline is looming.  Of course, you'll also have a belly full of turkey (or tofurkey), mashed potatoes, stuffing, sweet potato casserole, apple pie, cherry pie, pumpkin pie... be thankful!

Start planning now!  The holidays do seem a long way off, but they've already got the decorations up in my town.  Make your list, check it twice, and shop local!  Here's a good list of locally owned and operated businesses in the Piedmont Triad.  It's certainly not a complete list, be sure to seek out your local shop owners.  Why should you shop local?  Read about the 3/50 Project here,  they put it into perspective. 
Thank you to Eclectic by Nature in Greensboro, NC, a wonderful locally owned shop, for bringing this project to my attention!  

Support handmade!  North Carolina is home to so many very talented artists and artisans.  Many of them have online shops at Etsy, and here's a compilation of treasuries with items made by your neighbors! You can also choose your specific town or city on Etsy here.

While I truly believe you can check everyone off of your list shopping locally, here's a short list of links that will give you a sneak peek at Black Friday 2010.  Before you check these sites, do your best  to keep your dollar here in the Piedmont Triad.  You can make a difference.  Please spread the word!

Black Friday

Black Friday @ Gotta Deal

Wise Bread: Living Large on a Small Budget

Now is also the time to shop craft fairs and holiday bazaars.  To get you started, stop by Santa's Christmas Cottage tonight and tomorrow.  There will be seventeen local artists, and proceeds will benefit colon cancer research.  Tomorrow be sure to stop by the K'ville Indie Flea, with 24 vendors this weekend and includes handmade and vintage items.

Have a great weekend!