Right now, the season of giving is in full swing. While many are busy checking off items on their gift lists and preparing for family gatherings, there’s a way we can give back to our community in a big way: SHOP AND BUY LOCAL.
Every purchase you make at a locally owned/operated business is more than a transaction, it’s an investment in San Marcos. When you buy a gift from a local boutique, order food from your favorite family- run restaurant, or book a service from a local provider, you’re helping pay employees, support families and keep the local economy thriving.
San Marcos is filled with entrepreneurs who’ve turned their talents and dreams into businesses that bring flavor and uniqueness to our town. They’re not headquartered out-ofstate or owned by anonymous investors. These are your neighbors. These are your colleagues and friends. And during the highs and lows of the year, they are often the first to donate, volunteer or rally support when the community needs help.
That’s what makes local small businesses so special… they give all year long. So during this season of giving, let’s return the favor.
The Chamber encourages everyone to be intentional about where your dollars go. Choosing local may take a few more steps than placing an online order, but the impact is far greater. Keeping more money circulating locally boosts our economy. While you’re out, you reconnect with friends. You meet business owners face to face. You discover services and products you didn’t even know existed. All right here in your hometown.
Shopping locally also keeps important sales tax dollars here, to support your own library, parks, public safety departments, roads, etc. Not the services in the next town over.
Here are some easy, zero-cost ways to support your favorite small businesses this season, and all year long: - Leave a 5-star review for them on Google or Yelp - On social media, like and share their posts. Tag them when you’re at their location.
- Spread word-ofmouth promotion! Tell others about them!
When we support our local businesses, we’re not just helping them… we’re strengthening the core of San Marcos. A strong local business community means more jobs, better services and a brighter future for all of us.
From all of us at the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce: thank you for keeping it local this holiday season.
