We are all well aware that Christmas is a highly commercialized holiday. No matter how much we try to make it about celebrating family and friends, most people always end up shopping for gifts at some point.
Even those brave enough to forgo gift-giving traditions and stay away from holiday shopping altogether usually have to purchase at least a couple of presents at some point before all of the unwrapping begins. Regardless of whether we love Christmas shopping or loathe it, shopping local is so important.
Unfortunately, according to some local businesspeople, sales are down so far this season. This could be due to a combination of economic factors, including the growing popularity of online shopping, or just a case of more last-minute shoppers at local stores this year. After all, December 25 seems to be creeping up on us faster than ever.
Many arguments can be made for online shopping, and a limitless selection at your fingertips is the most obvious one, but, as some local business owners point out, most of what can be found online can be also be found here, and if not, it can be special-ordered through Powell River businesses at close to the same price.
Shopping local is not just about keeping money in Powell River. It’s about recognizing that the business owners, craftspeople and artisans right here in our city should be constantly celebrated for their skill, knowledge and talent.
Those willing to deviate from Christmas lists that include mass-marketed items will find a bevy of local artists and crafters whose handmade gifts are something that will be cherished for much longer than the latest gizmo or gadget.
And if you are buying presents for family members who live out of town, what better way to bring a piece of Powell River along with you than supporting locally made products from local businesses?
As the pressure to buy presents mounts for the holiday season, it can be liberating to realize that a big part of the present-buying experience can be about celebrating our own community and the people in this town who work hard every day.
Amazing people are here selling and making amazing things. All we need to do is look around (and maybe start shopping a bit earlier next year).
Jason Schreurs, publisher/editor
