Maybe it is the early cold snap in October, daylight savings time, the exhaustion from current events, or weariness of COVID-19, but we could all use some holiday cheer to get us in the mood for better things to come!
This weekend Downtown Freeport and Lena are rolling out their best holiday merchandise, specials and holiday hospitality for shoppers around the region. There is no better time to stop in and see the tremendous things our local merchants and businesses are offering for everyone on your holiday shopping list. Did you know that Downtown Freeport has nine, locally owned women and children’s clothing boutiques? Plus home décor, furniture, antiques, jewelry, and hobby gifts. And don’t forget about gift cards to support local restaurants! All of these stores and more will be open to you this weekend November 20-22 with extended hours and specials.
There is no better time to shop than now!
- Support local merchants and businesses! It has been a difficult year for them.
- Find amazing, unique and special gifts for everyone on your list.
- Shop early! You are going to need more time to send gifts this year if you won’t be seeing your family and friends in person.
- Purchase Holiday Partnership Cash and save 25 percent on all your local holiday purchases at participating Partnership Cash local merchants (more information at greaterfreeport.com/partnershipcash).
- The sense of satisfaction you feel when supporting local merchants AND finding a great gift can never be matched by purchases at big box stores or online retailers.
- Stop the procrastination shopping this year and Carpe Diem!
- Beat the bitter cold weather by shopping in November.
- Your local purchase creates a much larger impact. ‘According to the Small Business Economic Impact Study from American Express, consumers’ local impact during the important holiday shopping season is significant, because an average of two-thirds of every dollar ($0.67) spent at small businesses in the U.S. stays in the local community. Every dollar spent at small businesses creates an additional 50 cents in local business activity as a result of employee spending and businesses purchasing local goods and services.’
While many of our local shops and businesses have options to purchase online, the plan to shop in person is now! Our holiday shopping season will look different this year as stores are monitoring the number of patrons in their stores, requiring masks and offering additional health precautions for your safety. Make time to frequent stores soon to avoid the holiday rush and get the best in customer attention.
If you prefer to shop online, most of our local stores have their merchandise available for purchase on their web site, through a Facebook page or call for details on how you can complete your order. They will be happy to mail your order or meet you curbside for pickup!
The holiday season is all about giving – and this year it is not just about giving gifts! Give your attention, your recognition and your holiday shopping dollars to local businesses. Your investment is returned in the multitude of joyous smiles you see personally as you support our community.
Nicole Haas is the brand director at the Greater Freeport Partnership.
