by Shawn Crowle
The holiday season is here and we couldn’t be more excited to kick it off by supporting the amazing local businesses that make Camrose such a special place. When you shop local, you’re not just giving gifts for your loved ones, you’re helping our community grow, creating jobs, and making sure that your hard-earned dollars stay right here at home.
So let’s all make a commitment this year to shop local and make the season even brighter for our neighbours and our friends. We’ve put together five simple yet meaningful ways to shop local this holiday season – and your gift list (and your community) will thank you!
1. Support Local Florists with Beautiful Holiday Arrangements
Nothing gets you into the holiday spirit quite like a gorgeous bouquet of seasonal flowers. Instead of running to one of the big box stores, why not support one of Camrose’s talented florists and have them create a beautiful, handcrafted holiday arrangement? These unique flowers are perfect for sprucing up your home, using as a centrepiece, or giving as a thoughtful local Christmas gift to someone you care about. Plus, when you buy local, you’re helping our florists stay in business and keep doing what they do best!
2. Give the Gift of Personalized Holiday Cards from Local Printers
Family holiday cards are one of those fun little traditions that make the season feel extra special and keep us all connected. This year, consider giving the gift of a personalized touch with locally printed holiday cards. Local printers often offer designs that reflect the warmth and charm of our community, so each card will have a little piece of home in it. It’s a simple but heartfelt idea for shopping local that makes all the difference.
3. Cook Up a Local Feast with Fresh, Alberta-Sourced Ingredients
If you’re hosting a holiday meal this season, consider shopping at Alberta’s local farmers’ market or independent grocery stores, or local producers in surrounding communities. You’ll find fresh, seasonal produce and locally raised meats that not only taste amazing but also support Alberta’s hardworking farmers. There’s something so special about cooking with ingredients sourced from your own backyard.
4. Hold Your Holiday Party at a Local Venue
Planning a holiday get-together? Instead of booking a chain restaurant or event space, why not host your celebration at one of Camrose’s unique independent venues? Whether it’s a cozy cafe, a local event hall, or a rustic venue with local flair, Camrose has a lot to offer when it comes to hosting memorable parties. And the best part? You’ll be supporting a local business while creating memories that will last a lifetime!
5. Get Into the Holiday Spirit with Midnight Madness
One of the best ways to shop local in Camrose is to attend this year’s Midnight Madness happening on November 29th! It’s an event that’s become a holiday tradition for many – and for good reason. There will be wagon rides, Carole’s, and plenty of opportunities to check out local maker’s markets filled with unique, handcrafted items that make perfect local Christmas gifts!
You’ll also find delicious snacks, warm drinks, and so much more! It’s the perfect way to kick off the holiday season while supporting local businesses and artisans.
Bonus Local Gift Ideas For This Holiday Season
- Gift Certificates Are Always a Hit: When you’re not sure what to buy, gift certificates are a bulletproof option. Not only will your loved ones be able to pick you exactly what they want, but you’ll be supporting a local business with every purchase.
- Give The Gift of Experience: Sometimes, the best gifts aren’t things, but experiences. Consider gifting something memorable, like a local cooking class, a spa treatment, or a fun outing at one of Camrose’s independent businesses. It’s a gift that goes beyond material things and supports local services at the same time.
Let’s make this holiday season one to remember! Let’s show up for our community and support the local businesses and services that make Camrose such a vibrant and wonderful community. Every purchase you make helps strengthen our economy, create jobs, and ensure that we all thrive together!
