Buy Local

Tis' the season and I know a lot of you are counting your pennies so you can go out and get a gift for everyone on your list. Money is tight for a lot of people but it is tight for many small businesses right now too. The city of Louisville has a wealth of small, locally owned businesses that offer great products at really good deals. A lot of the stores support artists, students and other people trying to make this world a better place. Shop locally and keep your cash flowing in your city.

A city that supports small-business, locally produced goods, the arts, and their overall community is city that will flourish.

Here are a couple of interesting quotes from a article, "How Your Community Can Thrive-- Even in Tough Times" by Philip Myrick, vice president of Projects for Public Space.

"To thrive in the coming years we have to do a better job of protecting local resources. People naturally take pride in their local food, places, history, landscape, and businesses. It is time to make sure to give these local assets as much support, if not more, as we do chain stores, multinational corporations and outside culture"

"Cities and regions that thrive in the 21st Century will be differentiated by their lively neighborhoods and business districts, cultural and recreational attractions, great sense of place, protected natural areas, and deep pride in local character, products and foods. They will achieve this through and open collaborative process with their citizens."

Here are some ideas for small, affordable gifts that show you care, but also help support the small business community as well.

For your Beer lovers:

Locally owned Louisville Beer Store offers a exciting number of specialty craft beers, both imported and regional. Pick up a six pack of Christmas, Spiced and Strong ales...

because nothing shows you care more than a six pack of warmth even in the coldest of days.

Steak Lovers:

At Palermo Viejo Argentinian Beef is grilled to perfection at this locally owned steak house on Bardstown Road. Take you steak lover out for a Lomo and a bottle of Malbec that is sure to sastify any carnivore. Palermo is also a member of Louisville Originals, which offers a program that gives you $10 for every $150 spent at any of their business members... you would be surprised at how fast it adds up.

For your Special Lady:

There are several small boutiques located on the Bardstown Road block of Bonnycastle and Alta. With Dot Fox, WHY? Louisville, The Makery, Cherry Bomb and General Eccentric the gift buying experience should be a fun endeavor. Each store offers unique, hand-made and locally crafted jewelry, accessories, clothing... what have you.

If you can't find a fun gift for your lady at one of these locally owned businesses than I just don't know what where to send you.

LIBA, Louisville Independent Business Alliance, has lists of many businesses that are integral to their community.