Why Shop Local?
For those of you who frequent Ellwood Thompson's in Carytown, you may know they feature a local vendor of the month. And this month we're proud to be featured business!
If you shop at Ellwood's or other Richmond area markets, you'll see the emphasis they place on supporting local products and makers. Being a small business owner and having friends who are as well means supporting small, local companies is something near and dear to my heart.
Here are just a few reasons why it's great to shop small:
- Health: When you shop local for food or home/personal care items you can ask the seller how it was prepared and what may or may not be in it. This improves the conversation of what we're putting into and on our bodies by asking if the produce and products we're buying is chemical free.
- People: One of the best parts about shopping small means you get to meet the people who made your products. It gives you the chance to ask about the story behind the brand and learn about why the maker started their business. Richmond has seriously talented and interesting makers, and it's fun to get to know them while you shop their products.
- Community: Don't get me wrong some chain restaurants and stores are great, but nothing can replace the individuality of local spots. Knowing that I can only get North End Juice Co. in Richmond makes me appreciate the goodness they serve because I can't get it just anywhere. The small one-of-a-kind places keep Richmond special. This is also why I love #communityovercompetition.
- Economy: When you buy local more of your money stays local and you support the place you call home.
We'd love to hear from you! Why and how often do you shop local? What are some of your favorite small businesses?
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