By Jennifer Farnsworth
Despite supply chain issues and COVID concerns, small business owners are saying local holiday shopping has been strong.
Todd Shimkus, president of the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce, said all businesses benefit when shoppers support local businesses and the local economy.
His organization is running a promotion wherin people who spend $20.21 or more at any local shop, restaurant, salon, florist, fitness studio, nonprofit organization or any other business in Saratoga County are entered into a drawing for the chance to win a $100 gift card. The campaign runs through Dec. 31.
“Shopping locally is important. Whether you are eating out, shopping for the holiday shopping season, hiring a local contractor, or signing up for a gym membership, we want our local residents and out-of-town visitors to support local businesses,” he said.
“We need to have their back and show our support as consumers. That’s why the Chamber created the Save Our Locals $20.21 campaign. We all benefit when we support our local businesses and the local economy.”
Times Square Clock Shop in Clifton Park is another place to find interesting gifts. Owner Peter Judd said they have a new line of clocks that he describes as one of their all-time best sellers.
“Our most popular item ever is our new line of Custom Wooden Lake Clocks,” he said. “We can create a clock for any lake, anywhere. We have hundreds in stock and ready to go, but we also create custom lake clocks for the ones that we do not stock.”
Judd said his shop has the largest collection of watches and clocks in the area, with hundreds of new styles available.
Heidi Owen West, owner of three downtown stores—Lifestyles of Saratoga, Caroline and Main and Union Hall Supply Co.—said consumers should understand the challenges they may face when ordering from big box stores. She said discovering what is close by in the community can save a lot of time and hassle.
“With shipping delays and supply chain issues it’s a great time to focus on local. All three of our locations will be running a ‘meet the maker’ series, highlighting gift ideas from our local vendors. The people behind the brands and their stories connect us as a community,” she said Owen West.
“Buying from local businesses that feature local brands doubles down on the investment in our community, both socially and economically,” said Owen West.
At Tide and Purl in Schuylerville. owner Amanda McCarty said the shop has a wide variety of local artisan goods, all in convenient places.
“The gift shop part of the brand is a fun collection of gifts and staples for everyone on your list,” she said. “Products range from familiar brands to fair trade ones that focus on social good. My favorite collections, however, are the local companies. This line up includes Saratoga Olive Oil, Compas Life, Kobo Candles and local barn art by Linda Pleat, with more being added. We are so lucky to live in a place with such talented artisans and businesses. It is an honor to showcase them in this space,” said McCarty.
At Compliments to the Chef LLC in Saratoga Springs, owner John Reardon said he believes shopping locally creates a sense of community between the proprietor and the consumer.
“When you shop with us, we consider you part of our community family. We are personally invested in the products and services we offer. We are a proud part of the community. We support our local schools and charities. When you support us, you embrace what makes your community unique,” he said.
Some gift ideas at his store include Hestan cookware, the Pro-Bond collection of cookware, chef’s knives and instant read thermometers.
President and CEO of the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce said they have shoppers’ needs covered for this holiday shopping season.
“Our local shops have everything you need for the holidays. All sizes, colors, price points, etc. What makes shopping local unique is that you are buying from your neighbors and directly supporting our local community and economy,” he said.
Megan Arnold, owner of Wicks from the Sticks in Glens Falls said the store is holiday ready with everything from ornaments to accessories, and of course candles.
“When you shop with Wicks from the Sticks you are supporting over 60 local crafters. Here you can find everything from handmade ornaments and jewelry to soy candles and wreaths. We also offer walk-in activities like painting and candle making,” said Arnold.
In Queensbury, James Joseph owner of Sharp Presents, said his store has a reputation for creating the perfect gift basket. Holiday shoppers can find presents for even those difficult to buy for.
“We have those unique gift items that you can’t find just anywhere. Right now, we are working on our new holiday website design. Shopping locally is always a win-win for both the community and the small business owner. We have distinctive and professional gift-giving solutions for every occasion,” said Joseph.