Shop Small, Shop Local: Your Guide to Supporting Local Businesses at Promenade
With the holidays coming, it’s easy to default to one-click ordering and big-box checkouts. But every dollar spent close to home does more than a dollar spent online. It supports your neighbors, keeps jobs in the community, and helps the places that give Promenade its character remain open. Small Business Saturday is November 28 this year, and Promenade is the perfect place to spend it.
To celebrate, we’re teaming up with four Promenade favorites to give you a chance to win something special:
- Hickory & Heart BBQ
- The Local Scoop
- Lavida Massage + Skincare
- Ruchi Authentic Indian Cuisine
To enter, head to our Instagram page. It’s a good excuse to try one of these spots if you haven’t yet, or to visit a favorite again.
Here’s a guide to making your shopping local, from gifts and treats to self-care and a few things you didn’t know you needed.
Gifts with Personality
Skip the generic gift card aisle. Start at Gretchen’s Hallmark for cards, ornaments and keepsakes, plus the kind of helpful service a big retailer can’t match. For the sports fan on your list, Charlotte Sports Collectibles is a better bet than anything pulled off a generic gift site. Runners and fitness lovers will find plenty at Charlotte Running Co.
Treat Yourself (and Others) to Something Delicious
Promenade has a good mix of places to eat, and a restaurant gift card makes an easy, appreciated present.
- Hickory & Heart BBQ for a comfort-food dinner.
- Arooji’s Wine Room & Italian Ristorante for a date night or a special occasion.
- Ruchi Authentic Indian Cuisine for a flavorful night out.
- Sushi 101 for a casual dinner or takeout.
- Bonnie & Clyde’s for drinks and good company.
- The Local Scoop for a sweet stop, which is a nice reward after a day of shopping.
- Sips & Dips for a relaxed place to unwind.
Self-Care Is a Gift Too
If you’re tired of buying things, give an experience. Lavida Massage + Skincare offers a break from the holiday rush. MW Skincare is another good stop for skincare, and Fresh Salon can help you look your best for the parties ahead. For movement and stretching, Club Pilates makes for a thoughtful gift for the wellness-minded people in your life.
Don’t Forget the Everyday Services
Shopping local isn’t only about the holidays. Many of the services you use all year are right here. Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids keeps the little ones looking sharp, Onstage School of Performing Arts nurtures young talent, and Promenade Center for Dentistry takes care of your family’s smiles. Choosing these providers keeps your money in the neighborhood all year long.
A Few Tips for Shopping Small
- Enter the giveaways. Head to Instagram and take a minute to enter. It’s free and supports our featured businesses.
- Go early. Small shops often have limited stock, especially on Small Business Saturday.
- Buy gift cards. They’re a no-stress way to support a business now and give someone a treat later.
- Tell a friend. Word of mouth is the most powerful marketing a small business has.
- Leave a review. A few kind words online can bring in new customers.
- Call ahead. Hours can vary, so check before you go. Phone numbers for each business can be found on the Promenade directory.
The Bottom Line
When you shop small, you’re doing more than checking off a gift list. You’re helping a neighbor pay their staff, keeping the local economy strong, and making your community a better place to live. This season, skip the shipping box and make your way to Promenade.
