Let’s start this season right, by focusing on hometown holiday shopping. I was pretty bummed out that Dabblers, in West Concord, announced they were closing. I have spoken to a lot of people about it and everyone says the same thing…’we love our local businesses and we want them to just be there for us.’  We are disappointed when one  closes down, but are we truly making an effort to support our local retailers?  Are we making the best effort we can to get what we need locally and support these businesses?

I know that I am guilty of getting what I can online, after hours…not so much during the year, but more so during the hectic holiday season, when there is so much to buy in a short period of time.

So…this year I am making a concerted effort to shop the locally-owned businesses during the Christmas season.  Here are some ideas for hostess gifts…yankee swaps…stocking stuffers and presents for loved ones.  Scroll through the gallery of photos to see wonderful, one-of-a- kind gift ideas to jump start your shopping list!  You can get it all done locally and your support will help ensure we retain the retailers that give the centers of Concord and West Concord their hometown look and feel.

Don’t forget gift certificates area always appreciated.  Try Reasons To Be Cheerful and other West Concord food establishments and services such as Yoga and Nia For Life.