Shop Local: It's not just for vacations anymore.

As we head into the dog days of August, many of us are preparing for that end-of-summer vacation - squeezing in one last adventure before the rush and hustle of fall routines begin. 
Maybe you're jetting off on a European tour, perhaps a jaunt across the US, or maybe it's as simple as a day trip or two somewhere closer to home. These travels tend to share a common thread - seeking out the "amazing little local shops" that line the streets or are tucked into the charming nooks and crannies of the places we visit.
We return home, car stuffed to the ceiling with bags of goodies from our travels. Be it crafted knick-knacks, jewelry, or tasty treats – the lure of local treasure is near impossible to resist. Plus, it's always fun to chat with the shop owners. They're excited and chock full of knowledge about their products. And like a photograph, that experience becomes part of the bigger story. "Remember when…?"

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If only we had quaint little shops 
with unique, locally sourced products and friendly shop owners 
in our own neck of the woods.

Wait a sec, we do! Take a look around, there exists a plethora of incredible shops and businesses ready to be explored right in our own backyards. 
Don't get us wrong, shopping online in your pajamas (free shipping!), running to your favorite Big Box Retail because you know where everything is and it's right on your way home –absolutely has its place - we're 100% with you. But changing up just a few of our buying habits can spread a bit of that summer vacation enthusiasm throughout the rest of the year.
Need a unique gift? A bookstore, home decor, or beautiful stationery? A new place to lunch with pals or meet with a client? Take time to adventure out into your own neighborhoods - we promise you will be amazed at what you can find! 
Then spread the word whenever you can, to friends and on social media.  
Let's make #shopsmallsummer a year-round thing!