Holiday Edition 2023

BY: RACHEL WUMKES

I know, I know.  I may be a bit advanced in my whole “holiday shopping” blog post.  Then again… just a few short days ago was September 25th.  Do you know what that means?  Only THREE MONTHS until Christmas Day.  Yikes, right?  It’s time to get moving on that holiday shopping, my friends!

I know it’s hard to switch lanes into holiday mode when the fall weather is just so perfect.  I, too, am enjoying the lasting warmth of the summer.  Holding on tight to the hope we can prolong it and avoid the inevitable cold and snow.  But alas, these warm afternoons will soon succumb to the frigid bursts of air as they come down from the North, and we will be plunged into the depths of winter.

One thing we can’t ignore?

The tick-tock of the clock as we inch closer to the holiday season!

Here are a few reasons to get your holiday shopping done sooner rather than waiting until the last minute.
  1. It gives you ample time to find the best deals and save money.
  2. It allows families to spread the spending over multiple paychecks and avoid credit debt.
  3. You can alleviate the stress and pressure that comes with last-minute shopping.
  4. You are more likely to avoid gift shortages due to supply chain issues.
  5. It allows you to be more intentional and find the perfect gift for your loved one.

 

See?  All good things.

And you know how we roll here at the Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce.  We want you to SHOP LOCAL first!  Keep those dollars right here in our community.

This holiday season, make a conscious effort to shop in our local stores and support the businesses that make Clear Lake unique and vibrant.  Local shops, boutiques, and artisans bring a special charm and personal touch to the holiday shopping experience.  When we choose to shop locally, we not only find one-of-a-kind gifts and treasures, but also contribute to the well-being of our neighborhoods!

Those neighbors are the ones who support our schools.  They are first in line when asked for donations to after prom, sports programs, music activities, and everything in between.  They are generous and giving because they know the importance of supporting others within the community.

So, this holiday season, before you open an app and click a button, think about another option.  The one where you are greeted at the door by a smiling face, happy to help you find the perfect gift.

Because every time someone shops local… an angel gets its wings!

Oh wait, that’s a different holiday topic.

Still, I can guarantee they are doing a happy dance inside their head.  They’ve poured their blood, sweat and tears into building a business, and every time someone makes a purchase, it fills them with pure joy.

But that’s not the only magical thing to happen when you shop local.

By supporting local businesses, we help sustain jobs, boost the local economy, and foster a sense of community pride.  It creates a ripple effect throughout Clear Lake, creating something good for another business or organization.  This holiday season let’s celebrate the spirit of giving by giving back to the places and people who make our communities feel like HOME.

So, what are you waiting for?

Get those lists started and start shopping, people!  If you’re unsure where to start, check out our directory.  It’s filled with amazing chamber members who have the perfect gift just for you!