Last Minute Shopping? Beat The Crowds: Shop at Local Independent Retailers. It's a Win Win!

_Here is an edited version of a viral email going around with great gift ideas to support your local community.

Support your small business owners and independent retailers to keep their doors open. Remember, folks this isn't about big National chains.

And the great news is that you will beat all the crowds of people and jammed parking lots.  Who wouldn't want everything on this list?! I know that I could use and would appreciate every gift listed here.

1 Most people get their hair cut. How about gift certificates from your local hair salon or barber?

2) Gym membership. Yoga Classes. Dance Classes.  It's appropriate for all ages who are thinking about some health improvement.

3) Car Detailing. Small, owner operated detail shops and car washes would love to sell you a gift certificate.

4) Need a big ticket item?  Driveway sealed, lawn mowed for the summer or driveway plowed all winter, games at the local golf course.

5) Owner-run restaurants -- all offering gift certificates. If your intended isn't the fancy eatery sort, what about a half dozen breakfasts at the local breakfast joint?

6) How many people couldn't use an oil change for their car, truck or motorcycle, done at a shop run by a local working guy?

7) Heartfelt gift for mom? Mom would LOVE the services of a local cleaning lady for a day.

8) Computer tune-up? Find some young guy who is trying to get his repair business up and running.

9) More personal?  Local crafts people spin their own wool and knit them into scarves. They make jewelry, and pottery and beautiful wooden boxes.

10) A business coach or personal life coach. How about Floydilou's Festivepreneur Special!

11) Original Art - such as Artcite's "Doin' the Louvre"  with all items under $100.

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 your hometown theatre?

Musicians need love too, so find a venue showcasing local bands.

Please comment below and share your ideas on great gift ideas to support our local people, small business owners and community.

To your success - and Happy Holiday Shopping!

Floydilou

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