It’s that time of year again. Christmas will soon be upon us and we turn to thoughts of buying gifts for those nearest and dearest to us – if you haven’t already completed your Christmas shopping by the end of September! Do you find yourself buying a gift for the sake of buying a gift? Are you tired of picking up presents at the mall and being disappointed at the quality or uniqueness?

This year, instead of shopping at high street chain stores or the mall, shop locally and support small, local businesses. Not only can this provide you with some unique gifts for your loved ones (and that clown in the office), but it’s also one of the best ways to build a stronger and a more prosperous community. Now that’s a gift that keeps on giving!

Give to the Community – Shop Local

Support your community – When you buy from independent, locally or family owned businesses, more than 65% of your money will stay within your community… Bonus!

Small Businesses Care – If you’ve not visited a locally owned business of late, we think you may be surprised at the level of personal service you’ll receive. You will be served by someone who is passionate, knowledgeable and actually cares about what they do and how they can help you.

Help Create More Jobs – Small businesses and entrepreneurs fuel our fragile economy – support your local community businesses and encourage local job growth.

Keep Your Community Unique – The unique character of your local community is often defined by small businesses. Shop local and show your support for them or risk losing them to another bland corporation or worse a boarded up shop facade.

Positive Effects – 89% of consumers agree that independent businesses contribute positively to local economies. Don’t you?

Find Unique Gifts! – It’s surprising what unique gift ideas your locally owned businesses have in store. So why not surprise your self and discover what your local community businesses have to offer this holiday season.

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As the CEO of Blend Local Search Marketing, I would like to take this opportunity to wish all our amazing and talented team, friends, family, clients and web visitors a very merry Christmas.

Shop Local and a Very Merry Christmas